Traditional Karate for All Ages in Forest & Lynchburg, VA
14805 Forest Rd Ste 223 · Parking: Ample parking available in shopping center lot

Lifelong martial arts practitioner, Traditional Kenpo Karate
Sidney Burns is the owner and head instructor of Blue Ridge Martial Arts Academy in Forest, Virginia. He began his martial arts journey as a child and founded the academy to share the confidence, discipline, and positive impact martial arts brought to his own life. Burns specializes in traditional Kenpo Karate and is known for creating a welcoming, family-focused training environment where students of all ages and abilities can thrive.
“Blue Ridge Martial Arts Academy is a positive environment with excellent instructors in a welcoming and family-oriented atmosphere. The instructors focus on improving a student's confidence, discipline, physical abilities and instill character-building values like respect and resilience. They have a well-structured curriculum with a focus on proper technique. The instructors, especially Master Burns and Sensei Ben, are highly skilled and excellent teachers. Blue Ridge Martial Arts Academy fosters a positive and inclusive atmosphere where every student feels supported. Students of all ages and abilities grow in confidence and skill. The facility is always clean, and the mats are well-maintained, showing the staff's dedication to a safe and professional environment. Our daughter has excelled and is always excited to go to class. If you are looking for a real martial arts academy vs a cookie cutter karate class then Blue Ridge Martial Arts Academy is the place. It's an incredible place to train and I highly recommend Blue Ridge Martial Arts Academy to anyone looking to start their martial arts journey.”
“Our son has been at Blue Ridge Martial Arts since he was three and he is now seven. It has been a joy to watch him grow from the Little Dragons program through the beginner classes. Master Burns and Sensei Ben are great to work with. They have a great blend of high expectations and fun. I would recommend this program to anyone.”
“Blue Ridge Martial Arts is an amazing academy. We enjoy taking classes as a family and each student gets individualized attention as they learn and grow. The camaraderie between all students and instructors is wonderful. Truly one of the best experiences!”
5.0 ★ avg rating · Verified Mar 30, 2026

| Mon | 4:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Tue | 4:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Wed | 4:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Thu | 4:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Fri | Closed |
| Sat | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Sun | Closed |