Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Elite Martial Arts Training in Madison, NJ
Ascent Martial Arts is an elite martial arts school founded in 1973 by Great Grand Master Kyu Hyun Cho, a 9th degree black belt. We have dedicated over 50 years to teaching traditional Chung Do Kwan Tae Kwon Do and Hap Ki Do in the Madison, Chatham, and Morristown areas. Grand Master Brian O'Connor, an 8th degree black belt and former United States Marine Close Combat Instructor, continues this legacy after studying under Grand Master Cho for 37 years. Our curriculum incorporates formal training from Korea and global locations, emphasizing discipline, excellence, and practical self-defense techniques. Master O'Connor's credentials include international tournament championships and official certification from the World Tae Kwon Do Federation and World Chung Do Kwan Federation.All classes are taught directly by Master O'Connor and his elite black belt instructors to preserve the authenticity of Grand Master Cho's teachings. Our approach combines traditional martial arts philosophy with modern combat applications for students of all ages. With a focus on personal growth and technical mastery, we maintain rigorous standards for both instructors and students. Our facility serves as a hub for martial arts excellence, offering structured programs for children, juniors, and adults. This commitment to quality has established us as a trusted institution in Morris County for over half a century.
Services
Children's Classes
Junior Classes
Adult Classes
Hap Ki Do
Elite Black Patch Program
Details
- Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years of combined martial arts experience from certified masters
- Our instructors include former military combat specialists and tournament champions
- We maintain direct lineage from Chung Do Kwan's traditional teachings
- All classes are taught by certified 8th/9th degree black belt masters
- We combine traditional techniques with modern combat applications
Associations and certifications
- World Tae Kwon Do Federation
- World Chung Do Kwan Federation
Services
Tae Kwon Do
Traditional Chung Do Kwan Tae Kwon Do instruction rooted in 50+ years of authentic Korean martial arts heritage. Our program develops physical discipline, self-defense skills, and mental focus through structured belt progression. Students train in fundamental techniques, forms, and sparring under direct supervision of certified master instructors.
Hap Ki Do
Comprehensive Hap Ki Do training focusing on joint locks, pressure points, and fluid defensive techniques. This Korean martial art emphasizes using an opponent's energy against them through circular movements and controlled grappling. Ideal for practical self-defense applications in real-world scenarios.
Children's Classes
Specialized martial arts instruction for ages 5-8 that builds foundational skills while developing focus and discipline. Our curriculum balances technical training with character development, creating a structured environment for young students to grow physically and mentally through martial arts practice.
Adult Classes
Advanced martial arts training for adults focusing on technical mastery and physical conditioning. Programs include traditional forms, sparring techniques, and practical self-defense applications. Designed to challenge students at all levels while maintaining the philosophical core of traditional martial arts practice.
Elite Black Patch Program
Specialized program for dedicated students seeking mastery of traditional martial arts techniques. Combines advanced Tae Kwon Do and Hap Ki Do training with leadership development and teaching methodology. Requires direct mentorship from master instructors through rigorous evaluation and progression standards.
People
Grand Master Brian O'Connor
8th Dan Black Belt
8th degree black belt with 37 years studying under Grand Master Cho. Former Marine Close Combat Instructor and international tournament champion. Directly certified by World Tae Kwon Do Federation and World Chung Do Kwan Federation.
Great Grand Master Cho Kyu Hyun
9th Dan Black Belt
Founder of Ascent Martial Arts in 1973. 9th degree black belt with over 60 years martial arts experience. President of USNEC Chung Do Kwan Association and member of World Tae Kwon Do Federation Executive Committee.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in traditional Chung Do Kwan Tae Kwon Do and Hap Ki Do, preserving authentic Korean martial arts techniques and philosophy.
What age groups do you accept?
We offer classes for children (5-8 years), juniors (9-14 years), and adults with age-appropriate curriculum and instruction.
Are instructors certified?
All instructors are certified black belts with Grand Master Brian O'Connor (8th Dan) and Great Grand Master Cho (9th Dan) directly overseeing training programs.
How long has the school been operating?
Ascent Martial Arts has provided traditional martial arts instruction in Morris County since 1973, with over 50 years of continuous operation.
Do you offer trial classes?
Yes, we offer free trial classes for new students to experience our traditional martial arts instruction firsthand.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Madison, Chatham, and Morristown areas with convenient access to our main training facility on Main Street.
Reviews (7)
Ryan Rauschenberger
Oct 22, 2020
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Great place. Not only teaches you great martial arts but also teaches how to improve your mind and your character (e.g. lessons of respect and meditation). The Ascent community is friendly and Master O'Connor is a charismatic, skilled, and kindhearted master. I highly recommend Ascent Martial Arts for people of all ages.
Tobias Farelo
Jul 21, 2020
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I moved to Florida and I joined a tea khan do studio but it is not as good as Ascent Martial Arts. The teacher is amazing there I highly recommend this for people interested in Martial Arts.
Tiffany Tocmacov
Jan 26, 2020
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I have trained here for the past (almost) eight years under Master O'Connor and it is safe to say that the school and the people in it are like family now. I have learned so much, both for my mind and body. It is an amazing environment to learn in for both children and adults, I speak from experience as over the years I have been a part of both groups and I always look forward to returning to classes. Master O'Connor is an amazing talented teacher who has managed to pass down traditional teachings and techniques to his students. He always makes sure that we work hard while still having fun. If
George Mar
Oct 15, 2019
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Our daughter has been with Master O'Connor since she was five. He is very encouraging and motivating. Great with kids and adults. There was one time where my daughter was afraid of advancing to the next belt. Master O'Connor didn't push her but instead motivated her to overcome her fear. He's been great teaching her all the disciplines of Tae Kwon Do, most importantly being respectful in life. We're glad he has been part of her childhood. Thank you! Thank you!
Mart C.
Jun 11, 2019
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Great School and community. Master OConnor teaches honor and respect to all things but especially to ourselves and others. He is great with children and adults of all ages. When I started looking at schools to join there as one closer to home. When I went for a trial class at this other place I felt like they were interested more in the tuition than me. When I went and trialed Ascent, there was a completely different culture and sense of community. Over three years later, I am still very happy with the decision to go with Ascent.
Gary Pien
Dec 22, 2017
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Our kids have been coming here for the past 8 years. Master O'Connor is amazing with elementary, tween, and young adults! He instills mental and physical discipline, spiritual growth, and respect in his students. He is not only a great Master, but a great role model and mentor!
Karen Delavan
Dec 18, 2017
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Phenomenal teacher, fantastic school; Ascent Martial Arts is the best. Our 3 kids started training under Master O'Connor about 12 years ago. They have become strong and skilled physically, and further, their training here has developed their self-confidence, respectful attitudes, discipline, and perseverance. Everyone loves coming to class. Master O'Connor is an amazing teacher who inspires his students to do their best.
