JP Wood Martial Arts

Business Details

Premier Martial Arts Training in Palatine, IL

Based in Palatine, Illinois, JP Wood Martial Arts has been dedicated to martial arts education for over three decades. Founded by Grand Masters John and Jan Wood, our school fosters a family-oriented environment where students of all ages develop confidence, physical fitness, and discipline. Our comprehensive programs include Tae Kwon Do, Koryo Gumdo (sword martial arts), and character-building curricula designed for preschoolers through adults. With certified instruction rooted in traditional values, we emphasize not only technical skill but also personal growth, leadership, and community service.

Our experienced team has trained thousands of students, many of whom have achieved black belt certification and competitive success. We offer flexible class schedules, summer camps, and private lessons to accommodate diverse needs while maintaining rigorous safety standards. Recognized for our commitment to excellence, we provide a supportive space where individuals build lifelong skills through martial arts practice.

Services

Tae Kwon Do Classes Koryo Gumdo Training Summer Martial Arts Camps Private Instruction Self Defense Workshops

Highlights and features

We offer 30+ years of proven martial arts instruction experience
Our certified Grand Masters hold international recognition in their disciplines
Family-owned school maintains personalized attention across all age groups
Curriculum combines physical training with character development education
Community-focused approach with local outreach and events

Associations and certifications

Kukkiwon Certification

What people say

Very Professional Best Decision of My Life Great Instructors Family Atmosphere Transformative Experience

Website

Update Listing

Services

Tae Kwon Do Classes

Our Tae Kwon Do program develops physical strength, mental discipline, and self-defense skills through traditional forms, sparring, and character education. Students learn kicking techniques, forms, and self-defense applications while building confidence and respect. Classes combine physical conditioning with values-based instruction to foster personal growth and community responsibility.

Koryo Gumdo Training

Koryo Gumdo teaches traditional Korean sword techniques through forms, sparring, and target cutting. This full martial art develops coordination, focus, and physical fitness while preserving historical swordsmanship traditions. Students train with padded swords in a safe environment to master techniques and build mental discipline under expert Grand Master instruction.

Summer Martial Arts Camps

Our summer camps provide intensive martial arts training combined with character-building activities for children and teens. Participants develop physical skills, leadership abilities, and social confidence through structured martial arts instruction and team-building exercises. The program emphasizes fun, fitness, and personal growth in a supportive environment.

Private Instruction

Personalized martial arts lessons offer tailored instruction for students seeking focused skill development. Sessions accommodate individual goals, whether preparing for belt tests, refining techniques, or addressing specific fitness needs. Private training provides accelerated progress through dedicated instructor attention and customized lesson plans.

Self Defense Workshops

Specialized self-defense programs teach practical techniques for real-world situations while maintaining martial arts principles. Participants learn situational awareness, de-escalation strategies, and physical defense methods applicable to various scenarios. Workshops emphasize confidence building and safety awareness for teens and adults.

People

John P. Wood

Grand Master & Founder

With over 30 years of martial arts instruction experience, Grand Master Wood holds international recognition as president of Koryo Gumdo International. He specializes in traditional Korean sword arts and has trained thousands of students in discipline and character development.

Jan Wood

Grand Master & Co-Founder

Co-founder Jan Wood brings decades of martial arts expertise to our school's character-building programs. She focuses on creating inclusive learning environments that help students develop confidence, leadership skills, and community responsibility through traditional martial arts training.

Questions

What martial arts styles do you teach?

We offer Tae Kwon Do for all ages, Koryo Gumdo (Korean sword martial art) for ages 11+, and specialized self-defense programs for teens and adults.

Are classes available for different age groups?

Yes! We have programs for preschoolers (Tiny Tigers), elementary students (Flying Dragons), teens, and adults. Family classes accommodate multiple age groups together.

What are your instructors' qualifications?

Our Grand Masters John and Jan Wood have over 30 years of combined teaching experience. They hold international certifications including Kukkiwon recognition and lead Koryo Gumdo International.

Do you offer trial classes for new students?

Yes, we provide a New Student Special allowing first-time participants to experience our programs before committing to regular enrollment.

Are there competitive opportunities available?

We support competitive training through our GOLD Team and host the annual Samurang Games tournament for students to demonstrate their skills in a supportive environment.

What should I wear for my first class?

New students can wear comfortable athletic clothing. We provide loaner uniforms for initial classes and will guide you on proper uniform requirements during enrollment.

Reviews (7)

Write a Review

Tim Kobos

Nov 27, 2021 Report

GMs Wood and the team there are some of the finest people I have known. If you put in the time you will get a ton out of the training they offer. Everyone is respectful and caring as you learn. They will challenge you! It's one of the best training environments I have been in I am glad that I got to be there up until I had to relocation.
Sincerely,
Tim

Wendi Raker

Jan 28, 2019 Report

JP Wood Martial Arts America is my family's second home! My sons and I have been with them for over ten years and we are still going strong! One of the things I love best about JP Wood is the variety of classes. They offer Tae Kwon Do (World Tae Kwon Do curriculum) pre-school - adult, Koryo Gumdo (a Korean sword martial art) which Grand Master Wood is the chairman of Koryo Gumdo International, Hapkido, Light Saber (Jedi training for all!), one of the coolest summer camps, tournaments, self-defense and weapon seminars and workout classes! Grand Master John Wood and his wife Master Janice Wood also

Kirstin Larson

Nov 10, 2017 Report

My son started attending JP Wood last year, and it has quickly become an important part of our family's life. JP Woods is owned and operated by people who have a real passion for their work, and it shows. They care about their students in a holistic way that involves a whole-life approach that encourages the kids to excel not just in martial arts, but in all their undertakings. The classes are well-balanced between fun and hard work, their schedule provides lots of opportunities for busy families to find time to participate, and they offer lots of variety in both classes and extra-curricular activities

Suzan Curda

Aug 03, 2017 Report

Our 10 yr old daughter has been taking classes with the Wood's since last summer and she absolutely loves it! It's a good thing, because Mom and Dad love it too. Not only is it helping our daughter to get and stay in shape, but is teaching her the sport of TaeKwonDo as well as patience, respect for herself and others, discipline, and self defense. It not only teaches at an individual level, but also promotes teamwork. This isn't just another activity to put your kid into, it's a mind, body, and soul enriching experience. We are so happy that we found JP Wood Martial Arts and are uber grateful to

Susan Erickson

Jan 21, 2015 Report

JP Wood Martial Arts has something for every member of the family. My kids started out in the Dragon class for 4-6 year old - which was martial arts with a lot of gymnastics, fun, discpline and learning all mixed into one. Later they moved on to Youth Classes and now my oldest son is a Second Degree Black Belt in Koryo Gumdo and is an assistant teacher for Gumdo Youth and Adult classes. He has learned so much about Health, Nutrition, Exercise and has also developed self confidence and responsibility through his participation at JP Wood MAA. I also take fitness classes at JP Wood. Mrs. Wood makes

Christa Ogilvy

Nov 10, 2014 Report

We moved to Palatine last year and found JP Wood Martial Arts America through a friend of my son's, a black belt. We joined based on his recommendation and it has been a great journey. We owe him!
JP Wood has provided a foundation that has facilitated a successful transition to a new community. My son has challenged himself as he never would have before and made friends and had fun. The instructors know every student and work 24/7 to help them succeed. They offer a balance of discipline and understanding that leads to success. They understand how to connect with students and challenge them to

Bill Soloway

Oct 28, 2014 Report

My family and I have been training at JP Wood Martial Arts America for many years now. What started out as a birthday present of samurai sword lessons through the Palatine Park district, has evolved into 6 black belts between the four members of my family. What I appreciate most about the school is the family atmosphere. It is a place where parents can train right alongside their children and come up through the ranks together. I don't think you find that in many other schools.