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Martial Arts Programs

Edwards Martial Arts Academy offers programs in Taekwon-Do, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu®Self Defense and Adaptive Martial Arts for everyone all ages 3 and up. Our training center is conveniently located in Gales Ferry; near Groton, New London and Norwich. 

Before you commit to a membership plan, it’s very important to us that you are 100% satisfied with the quality of instruction and overall culture of our school. That is why we give everyone a 10-day free trial.

Taekwon-Do is a Korean Martial Art that was established in 1955. It is known for its devastating kicking combinations and has roots in Karate. 

 

Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is the most effective martial art for Self-Defense. It's known as the 'Gentle Art' because you're able to defeat your opponent without causing any lasting damage to yourself or them. We teach the following Jiu-Jitsu programs:

  • Gracie Combatives®: Gracie Combatives is our beginner program for adults. In this program, you will learn the 36 core techniques of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in a fun, safe, and cooperative environment. Each one-hour lesson addresses one standing and one ground self-defense technique, which are further broken down into simplified drills or “slices” to facilitate the learning process. You can start the program at any time and participate in any class without previous experience and, since safety is our number one concern, there is no competitive sparring in this program.

  • Gracie Bullyproof®: Every month in the United States, three million children miss school due to fear of bullies. In the Gracie Bullyproof program, our goal is to instill your child with unshakable confidence so they can overcome bullies without violence. Due to the non-violent nature of the techniques, CNN, ABC, NBC, and Oprah have featured the Gracie Bullyproof program as one of the few effective counter-measures to bullying for children between the ages of 3 and 12.

 

For more information on our programs use the links below.

Martial arts class

Our Family friendly martial arts classes are perfect for anyone that has been curious about trying Karate, Taekwon-Do, Jiu-Jitsu, Judo or any other form of martial art. Our relaxed atmoshphere will make you feel at ease and help you get the most out of your experience. We offer Taekwon-Do classes for everyone of all ages from 3 years old and up. For the Kids, our program is very structured with fun games spread throughout that teach them martial arts in a way that is fun and exciting. What makes our Kids Program unique is that our classes combine both Taekwon-Do and Jiu-Jitsu into one fun filled class. Our Taekwon-Do programs for Juniors and Adults provide a good aerobic workout that will help you build strength, flexibility and stay in shape. What makes our Taekwon-Do Programs unique is that they teach a Self-defense system that is based on Jiu-Jitsu so that you will be comfortable not only your feet but on the ground as well. Click the link above for more information.

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If you've ever thought about learning Jiu-Jitsu to defend yourself then this program is for you. Most martial arts like Karate, Taekwon-Do and others concentrate on fighting while standing up. The reality is, if you find yourself in a real fight there's a good chance that you'll end up on the ground. Our Jiu-Jitsu program will teach you how to defend yourself against an opponent that is bigger, stronger and more athletic. For more information, use the link above.

Young man being evaluated in our adaptive martial arts program.
Child in a private martial arts lesson.

In our adaptive martial arts program we assess each persons individual circumstances and tailor a training program to fit their needs and goals. Regardless of what your limitations are, our adaptive martial arts program will help you develop your mind and body to their full potential.

In our private lessons we'll determine what your martial arts goals are and then come up with a plan to help you achieve those goals. Whether your goal is to earn your blackbelt, be able to defend yourself against an attacker, gain strength and flexibility, gain confidence or train to be able to compete internationally we can help you every step of the way.

Reviews

Such an amazing place! My daughter was very nervous and shy for her first class but we were able to watch and get here comfortable with her surroundings. At her second class she was out there with everyone else, showing what she was learning, and activily engaging with everyone. I would highly recommend to everyone!!!

Kayla Z.

About Us

Edwards Martial Arts Academy was established to fulfill a life long goal of its founder Edward Murnane. Being a Military Veteran I never stayed in one place very long, which made it impossible to fulfill my dream of opening my own martial arts school. Whenever we would move to a new place I would always ask myself, "What is the best martial arts school near me?" Unfortunately, most times the answer to that question left me disappointed. 

My journey as a martial artist started at a young age, taking Taekwondo lessons at the only martial arts school in the area where I grew up in upstate New York. Thankfully, this martial arts school, Edwards Taekwondo, was owned and operated by Charles "Chuck" Edwards. And yes, if you're wondering, the name of my martial arts school was chosen to honor his legacy and the profound impact he had on the person that I am today. 

I opened this martial arts school, Edwards Martial Arts Academy with the hope that I can be that positive influence in someones life. Sharing my love and knowledge of martial arts with them and helping them to be the best possible version of themselves. We're conveniently located in Eastern CT near Groton, New London and Norwich.

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