Sports and Recreation

Martial Arts

Whether it's the sword technique of iaido, the open-hand style of karate or the throws and take-downs of ju-jitsu that interest you, or it's self-defense, confidence, physical fitness and competition you desire, it's all available in our region. Martial arts schools are proliferating, with many offering family rates and classes.

Champion Karate & Kickboxing Center

 147 S. College Rd., Ste. 109, Wilmington
(910) 792-1131

As one of the originators of Kickbox Fitness and its concept, owner/instructor John Maynard offers this high-energy, fat-burning, fun work-out at his Wilmington studio. Champion's highly qualified team of instructors can help you achieve your fitness goals through mixed classes for men and women in kickboxing, kickbox fitness and Brazilian Jiu Jitso. They also offer kids karate.

Choe's Hap Ki Do
7419-C Market St., Wilmington
(910) 686-2678

Hap Ki Do, a Korean martial art, was originally introduced to the Korean royal court in 372 A.D. and has been in Grandmaster JiMong Choe's family for many generations. Grandmaster JiMong Choe has more than 55 years of martial arts experience; he is a 9th degree black belt in Hap Ki Do and an 8th degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do. His expertise extends to more than 20 weapons.

Hap Ki Do is a versatile martial art, emphasizing circular movements and leverage as opposed to physical strength and brute force. For this reason, Hap Ki Do is suitable for every one of all ages. In addition to self defense, some of Hap Ki Do's benefits are self discipline, self confidence, increased concentration and mental strength, weight loss, muscle tone and a youthful appearance. Participants learn about philosophy and culture in a family-oriented setting.

Shaolin Kempo Martial Arts
3512½ S. Carolina Beach Rd., Wilmington
(910) 793-1161

Stressing physical fitness, flexibility, confidence, coordination and balance, this school uses a well-rounded system with kempo, ju-jitsu, kung-fu and weapons. Quality not quantity is the main concern here. Classes are small to enhance the learning process. The low monthly fee is $65. You'll not be asked to sign a contract or pay miscellaneous fees. Head instructor Brian Watkins is a Shihan 5th Degree Black Belt who has experience in this system since 1982; his wife Christine is also an experienced instructor. They invite individuals ages 8 and older to become part of their family in learning. Both day and evening classes are available.
 

YWCA of the Lower Cape Fear
2815 S. College Rd., Wilmington
(910) 799-6820

The YWCA karate program combines fitness, strength and flexibility, and kids can learn basic karate techniques and self defense from a professional instructor. Call for class times and fees. The YWCA karate program combines fitness, strength and flexibility, and kids can learn basic karate techniques and self defense from a professional instructor. Call for class times and fees.