Business Details
25 Years
experience
Your Trusted Martial Arts Partner in New York City
Modern Martial Arts was founded on the Upper West Side of Manhattan in 2001 with a mission to change people's lives through martial arts. Over two decades, we have grown to four thriving New York City locations, maintaining a commitment to excellence in fitness and martial arts education. Our programs cater to all ages and skill levels, emphasizing discipline, confidence, and community. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, while our experienced instructors combine expertise with a passion for teaching. We pride ourselves on creating a supportive environment where students develop not only physical skills but also character.From beginners to advanced practitioners, our inclusive community fosters growth and mutual respect. Whether you're seeking self-defense training, fitness, or a supportive community, we welcome you to experience the transformative power of martial arts. Our birthday parties and summer camps offer unique opportunities to build confidence and social skills. With a proven track record of impacting lives, we remain dedicated to evolving with the needs of our members while staying true to our founding principles.
Services
Kids Martial Arts
Kickboxing Classes
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Summer Camp
Birthday Parties
Adult Martial Arts
Weapons Training
Karate Instruction
Details
- Year established: 2001
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience transforming lives through martial arts in NYC.
- Our small class sizes ensure personalized attention from experienced instructors.
- We maintain a diverse, supportive community that feels like family.
- All programs are built around a proven character development curriculum.
- We offer flexible options including birthday parties, summer camps, and trial classes.
What people say
Best birthday experience
Wonderful with the kids
Magical birthday experience
Positive and fun
Incredible staff
Services
Kids Martial Arts
Our kids' martial arts program builds discipline, physical coordination, and confidence in children aged 3-12. Through structured lessons emphasizing focus and respect, students develop self-defense skills while learning character-building values. Small class sizes and experienced instructors ensure personalized guidance that adapts to each child's developmental stage.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu offers effective self-defense and intense physical conditioning for all skill levels. Our curriculum focuses on grappling techniques that improve strength, flexibility, and strategic thinking. Certified instructors guide students through progressive drills and practical applications in a supportive training environment.
Birthday Parties
We create memorable birthday experiences featuring martial arts games, board-breaking demonstrations, and themed celebrations. Packages include instructor-led activities, party favors, and optional extras like bounce houses and arcade access. Staff handles setup, service, and cleanup at three convenient NYC locations.
Summer Camp
Our summer camp combines martial arts instruction with educational field trips and creative activities for ages 5-12. Daily sessions develop physical skills while teaching perseverance and positive attitude. The program includes morning martial arts classes, afternoon excursions, and special weapon training demonstrations.
Kickboxing Classes
Adult kickboxing provides a dynamic workout combining cardio conditioning with practical martial arts techniques. Small-group sessions emphasize proper form, technique development, and functional fitness through bag work and partner drills. Instructors make technical concepts accessible to beginners while challenging experienced practitioners.
People
Mario Guerrero
Founder
Mario Guerrero established Modern Martial Arts in 2001, bringing over two decades of martial arts expertise to New York City. His vision created a community-focused training environment that emphasizes character development alongside technical skills. Mario continues guiding the organization's growth while maintaining active involvement in student development.
Ms. King
School Manager / Head Instructor
As Upper West Side location manager and head instructor, Ms. King leads daily operations while teaching martial arts fundamentals. With extensive experience in student development, she maintains the school's educational standards and community-building programs. Her leadership ensures consistent delivery of Modern Martial Arts' core values.
Kandace
Program Director
Kandace serves as Program Director at the Tribeca location, overseeing class scheduling and curriculum implementation. Her organizational skills help maintain structured programming across multiple age groups and skill levels. She actively supports students' progression while coordinating special events and community initiatives.
Questions
What martial arts programs do you offer for children?
We provide age-specific martial arts classes for kids aged 3-12, including Tiny Champs (3-5), Little Champs (5-7), and Kids Basic (7-12). Each program develops discipline, coordination, and confidence through structured lessons that combine technical skills with character-building principles.
Do you offer trial classes for new students?
Yes, we offer a two-class trial for all new students to experience our teaching approach and facility. This allows prospective members to participate in two different sessions before deciding about long-term enrollment.
What options are available for birthday parties?
We offer Gold ($1,250) and Platinum ($1,750) birthday packages featuring martial arts games, board breaking demonstrations, party favors, and instructor support. Optional add-ons include bounce houses, arcade access, and customized decorations.
Are there martial arts classes for adults?
Yes, we provide kickboxing and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes for adults seeking fitness and self-defense training. Our small-group format ensures personalized attention while maintaining an energetic, community-oriented learning environment suitable for all experience levels.
What does the summer camp program include?
Our summer camp combines martial arts instruction with field trips and creative activities for ages 5-12. Daily sessions include two martial arts classes, arts & crafts, and weekly educational excursions throughout New York City.
Videos
Reviews (7)
Annoel Yabes
Nov 20, 2021
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Mr. Chris and Miss Jen are wonderful instructors. Theyre kind and very encouraging to the kids.They teach the kids about respect and responsibility.
Joanne
Nov 19, 2021
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Upon arriving to the school, I was greeted by Sandy at the front desk who was extremely pleasant and welcoming! Chris (instructor) introduced himself and explained what to expect during class. He was patient with me and I enjoyed his interaction with everyone! The best part was he and the class made me feel welcomed! I look forward to my continued training.
John E.
Sep 23, 2021
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We have been coming here with two children for many years. The instructors are skilled, attentive and very caring the staff is professional and responsive. The studio has been a great, positive influence in my children's lives. I can recommend modern Martial arts without hesitation
JaRon
May 02, 2021
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Nothing but good reviews for the instructors and my experience here. Did Muy Thai and BJJ and it was an amazing learning experience and workout. The instructors and colleagues that I trained with were all nice and wanted to see each other improve. Would still be training here if it werent for the pandemic.
Viswanathan P.
Nov 28, 2020
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We have been sending my 11year old daughter a d my 8 year old son to MMA for the last four years. These are the most wonderful teachers and coaches you can find in Newyork. They are tough but kind, supportive and have managed to create a joyful experience for my kids. The benefits are both physical as well as mental for people who take this program. My kids and we LOVE MMA
Upper west side dad
Upper west side dad
Dr. Pascale
Nov 19, 2020
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Positive:Communication,Professionalism,Quality,Value
Excellent remote classes of Karate. Provide our children with a sense of community and camaraderie that is so meaningful during these uncertain times. Thank you, MMA, for adjusting to this pandemic and keeping our kids safe and athletic!
Excellent remote classes of Karate. Provide our children with a sense of community and camaraderie that is so meaningful during these uncertain times. Thank you, MMA, for adjusting to this pandemic and keeping our kids safe and athletic!
Jen Goldman
Jul 15, 2020
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MMA is possibly my favorite place on earth. My son started when he was 4.5 and has been going for about 6 months. He is a more quiet, introspective kid, but is his most confident self in this class. He volunteers, is loud, loves to be called - basically his best self. Every teacher is amazing and strikes the perfect balance between expecting discipline and hard work with fun and praise. He is proud of his progress and we try to bring some of the terminology and energy home with us to apply to other situations. The kids respond so well to the continuity and environment. I love that it is 2x a week
