Areas served: Richmond, VA and surrounding Henrico, Chesterfield, and Hanover Counties
Richmond's martial arts community reflects the city's diverse population, with established schools offering traditional disciplines like Taekwondo and Karate alongside Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and mixed martial arts programs. The region's military presence at Fort Gregg-Adams and active law enforcement community has fostered several reality-based self-defense programs. This directory covers martial arts schools across Richmond proper and the surrounding counties, evaluated on instructor lineage and certification, training methodology, competition opportunities, and age-specific program structure.
Tri Cities Jiu Jitsu Club is a full-service martial arts academy in Colonial Heights offering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Wrestling, and Judo for all ages from 4 years old through adults. Run by Coach Barry and his team, the gym emphasizes a welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere where students of all skill levels—from complete beginners to experienced practitioners—feel supported and encouraged. They stand out for their comprehensive youth programs (Tiny Tigers through Teen levels), adult classes, and flexible approach that makes martial arts accessible to everyone, including military personnel stationed at nearby Fort Gregg-Adams.
Upstream BJJ is Richmond's premier Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy founded by third-degree black belt Seph Smith, offering programs for adults and kids of all skill levels. They teach modern jiu-jitsu, self-defense, competition preparation, and fitness through 20+ weekly classes across 6 days, with instructors bringing 25+ years of combined experience. The gym emphasizes skill development, personal growth, and community in an inclusive environment welcoming all genders and abilities.
River City Kung Fu offers Wing Chun martial arts training for kids (5-12) and adults (13+) in Richmond's Manchester neighborhood. Led by experienced instructors who emphasize character development, self-defense skills, and physical fitness, the school creates a supportive environment where students build confidence, discipline, and coordination. Programs are tailored to individual goals, whether that's weight loss, improved focus, or mastering martial arts techniques.
804 Jiu-Jitsu, led by Black Belt instructor Heriberto Lopez under Team Passos, offers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training for adults and children in Midlothian. The academy provides Gi classes, No-Gi submission grappling, and kids' self-defense programs in a welcoming environment designed for all skill levels. With Lopez's 15+ years of BJJ experience and military combat training background, the school emphasizes practical self-defense, fitness, and competitive development.
True Black Belt Academy is a Korean martial arts academy specializing in Taekwondo instruction for children and families across the Glen Allen and Mechanicsville areas of Virginia. With experienced, certified instructors, they offer after-school martial arts classes and summer camps designed to build discipline, respect, and self-confidence in students of all levels. Their philosophy emphasizes Taekwondo as a way of life, focusing on core values like integrity, perseverance, and indomitable spirit both on and off the mat.
Grandmaster Dong's Karate School has been serving the Richmond area since 1971, offering authentic martial arts training for kids, adults, and families. With multiple locations in Midlothian, Glen Allen, and Chesterfield, they provide age-appropriate karate classes that build confidence, focus, and respect while teaching practical self-defense skills. Beyond technique, the school emphasizes personal development, integrity, and community values, with before/after school programs and family classes available for those training together.
Resilient Martial Arts (formerly Gentle East Martial Arts) is a Taekwondo academy in Midlothian serving students from ages 3 through adults. Founded on the philosophy of making martial arts accessible to all, Master Eric Ribeiro and his team specialize in working with neurodiverse students, children with special needs, and families seeking a supportive, inclusive environment. They offer programs ranging from Mini-SKILLZ for toddlers through adult classes, family martial arts, teen training, and specialty programs like Mothers Morning of Martial Arts, plus birthday parties and community events.
10 Kicks Muay Thai is an authentic Muay Thai gym in North Chesterfield founded in 2021, specializing in the "Art of 8 Limbs" striking and clinching techniques. All classes are taught by instructors with real fighting experience who guide students whether they're training for competition, fitness, or self-defense confidence. The gym welcomes everyone from complete beginners through experienced fighters, offering structured intro programs, kids classes, and regular membership tiers with no contracts or hidden fees.
Dong's Karate School offers traditional karate instruction for children and adults in Midlothian, VA. With over a decade of experience, the school focuses on building character, discipline, and practical self-defense skills through structured classes and belt progression programs. Their experienced instructors emphasize respect and personal development alongside martial arts technique.
Mongrel Martial Arts in Midlothian, VA offers a diverse mix of martial arts disciplines including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Judo, American Kickboxing, and Aikido, plus fitness training. Founded in 2013 by JB as Mongrel Fitness, the gym combines martial arts instruction with fitness conditioning, emphasizing self-defense, grappling, striking techniques, and overall athletic development. Known for dedicated instructors and a family-oriented community atmosphere, Mongrel welcomes students of all skill levels and offers a free trial week.
Competitive Edge Karate is a full-service martial arts academy in Henrico founded and led by Kyoshi Roger Dabney. They offer kids martial arts (ages 6-12), adult kickboxing (13+), and self-defense classes (13+) that emphasize both technical skill development and character building including discipline, respect, and confidence. The studio provides in-person and virtual class options and specializes in progressive belt training with personalized instruction tailored to each student's individual goals.
K-TOP Martial Arts offers Taekwondo instruction for students of all ages in Henrico, VA. Led by Master KO and experienced instructors, the school emphasizes the traditional Korean martial art's core principles: respect, self-discipline, focus, confidence, safety, and leadership. They provide a free trial class to help new students experience their teaching approach before committing.
Revolution BJJ is a comprehensive martial arts facility in Richmond offering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, kickboxing, and yoga classes. With over 30 classes per week taught by multiple BJJ black belts, they serve beginners through advanced students with structured introductory programs and specialized classes. They specialize in kids' BJJ programs with no belt testing fees, making them ideal for families seeking quality instruction across multiple disciplines.
BOA BJJ Academy in Mechanicsville offers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo, and Muay Thai Kickboxing instruction for both adults and kids. With over 30 years of combined instructor experience, they're an official IBJJF-registered academy and affiliate school of Abmar Barbosa Jiu Jitsu Academy in Vienna, VA. They focus on quality instruction through active drilling, sparring, and endurance training in a safe and welcoming environment, offering a 6-week BJJ Fundamentals program as well as private lessons and multiple skill-level classes.
Academy of Kung Fu teaches authentic Wing Chun (Ving Tsun) Kung Fu for self-defense at any age, led by Sifu Barry O'Brien. The school emphasizes combat-focused training rooted in traditional lineage from Grandmaster Yip Man, incorporating forms, two-man drills, sparring (Chi Sao), and conditioning to develop practical self-defense skills. They offer both adult and kids classes, with personalized training plans developed during an initial consultation.
Dong's Karate has been serving the Richmond, Virginia area since 1971, offering karate classes for kids, adults, and families at multiple locations. Grand Master Dong's school emphasizes authentic martial arts training combined with personal development, teaching self-defense, fitness, confidence, and values like respect and integrity. They offer age-appropriate kids classes, adult martial arts programs, family training, and before/after-school care—with no experience required and a free trial class available.
M.Y. Taekwondo & After School provides taekwondo instruction for children in Manakin-Sabot, offering both regular classes and an after-school program. They also offer summer camps, birthday parties, and special events. The studio focuses on making martial arts training fun and engaging for young students while building discipline and skill development.
Elite Training Academy teaches Ving Tsun Kung Fu (Wing Chun), an ancient Chinese martial art from the Yip Man lineage, focused on practical self-defense and efficient movement. Founded on principles of relaxation, centerline technique, and economy of motion, the academy welcomes students of all experience levels and emphasizes quick skill development through traditional training methods. They offer intro lessons for those interested in learning authentic kung fu for street defense and personal development.
Apex Jiu Jitsu is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy in Midlothian, VA specializing in BJJ training for all skill levels from beginners to advanced competitors. They offer classes for kids, teens, and adults with a focus on technical instruction, personal development, and building a supportive community. The academy combines competitive training with self-defense applications, making it ideal for those pursuing sport BJJ or practical martial arts skills.
Revolution BJJ Ashland offers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai instruction for beginners through advanced practitioners, plus dedicated youth programs for ages 5-14. Led by head coach Jarrett Church and his team, the gym specializes in accessible intro courses (6-8 weeks) that include beginner gear and focus on real-world self-defense, fitness, and technique in a welcoming, non-intimidating environment. They provide group classes, one-on-one training, open mat sessions, and competition training for those interested in advancing their skills.
Richmond Moy Yat Kung Fu Academy has been teaching traditional Ving Tsun (Wing Chun) Kung Fu in Richmond for over 40 years. They specialize in this ancient Chinese martial art system, focusing on practical self-defense, efficient movement, mental composure, and relaxation through a centerline-based fighting philosophy. Their approach emphasizes quick skill development for both street defense and personal development in the modern world.
Bushin Martial Arts Jiu-Jitsu Richmond offers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Karate classes for all ages and skill levels, from young children through advanced adults. Led by DBNK Internationally Certified Instructors and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Black Belts, the academy provides structured programs including Bullyproof Karate for kids, Jiu-Jitsu Foundations for beginners, the Master Cycle for intermediate and advanced students, and WE Rise women's self-defense classes. They emphasize building confidence, discipline, and real-world self-defense skills in a safe, welcoming family environment.
MMA Institute is Virginia's largest mixed martial arts school, offering comprehensive training in MMA fighting, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, kickboxing, grappling, judo, and conditioning. Founded by Rick McCoy and his team of world-class instructors, the school serves everyone from complete beginners seeking fitness and self-defense to professional and amateur fighters. Known for their largest fight team in the state and flexible AM/PM class schedules, they specialize in helping students achieve diverse goals—whether weight loss, strength building, competition training, or personal development.
Top Game Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy has been serving Richmond since 2003, offering world-class instruction in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Thai Kickboxing, and Mixed Martial Arts. The academy specializes in teaching effective self-defense techniques to students of all ages, sizes, and athletic abilities, with dedicated programs for both children and adults. Their instructors focus on fundamental, high-percentage techniques that emphasize real-world application and personal empowerment.
Action Reaction Jiu Jitsu Academy offers expert Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction for all ages and experience levels, from young beginners (ages 4+) through advanced adults. Led by Professor Flavio Kenup, a distinguished instructor with over 30 years of experience who previously helped build a world-class program in the UAE, the academy emphasizes building strong foundations, safe technique, and lifelong skill development. They offer specialized programs including Little Champions (ages 5-7), Kid Warriors (ages 7+), Juniors & Teens (ages 10+), women's self-defense classes, and unlimited adult classes with flexible scheduling—all with no contracts required.
Taekwon Cho, led by Master Cho, offers Olympic-style taekwondo instruction in Midlothian serving students of all ages. The school specializes in traditional taekwondo training with a focus on technique, discipline, and personal development. Programs include kids' classes, adult classes, and competition training for those interested in tournament participation.
Richmond Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Self-Defense Academy is Richmond's longest-running BJJ and Muay Thai academy, offering 20 years of expert instruction in both disciplines. They provide beginner-friendly classes designed for self-defense, fitness, competition training, and personal development, with experienced instructors guiding students of all skill levels. Whether you're interested in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, or both, they help newcomers find the right fit and build a strong foundation.
Martial Arts of West End, led by Master Erik Hubley, offers Taekwondo-based martial arts training for kids, teens, and adults in Henrico, VA. The school provides Kids Martial Arts, Teen Martial Arts, Adult Martial Arts classes, and an afterschool program with homework time and care. They also offer summer camps and virtual adult classes. Master Hubley and his instructors focus on building discipline, self-confidence, and life skills alongside physical technique, creating a welcoming environment for beginners and serious students alike.
Aegis Jiu Jitsu is a family-oriented Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy in Richmond's west end, founded by 3rd-degree black belt Dave Kenworthy and led by experienced instructors who emphasize quality instruction, modern technique, and a welcoming atmosphere. They offer classes for kids and adults of all levels, with a focus on self-defense, competition training, and personal development through mindful jiu jitsu instruction in a clean, safe facility with work-friendly scheduling.
Martial Arts World Glen Allen has been serving the Henrico community since 2012, offering martial arts training for kids, teens, and adults alongside self-defense classes and an after-school program. The school combines technical martial arts instruction with character development, emphasizing confidence-building, discipline, and fitness through a progressive curriculum. They also teach the Modern Lifestyle program, which integrates martial arts training with weight management and injury prevention strategies.
Dynamic Taekwondo & After School of Chesterfield is a taekwondo school specializing in youth instruction with an integrated after-school program. Led by experienced instructors, the school emphasizes not just martial arts technique but also life skills, character development, and values education for children. They serve the greater Richmond area with locations in both Chesterfield and Henrico counties.
Taekwondo Works is a martial arts gym in Mechanicsville, VA offering taekwondo and jiu-jitsu classes for all ages, from young children (ages 4+) through adults. Owner Craig Simpson and his team of experienced instructors—including competition champion Chris Simpson and 2nd-degree black belt Makenzie Wingfield—focus on building confidence, discipline, character, and self-defense skills alongside physical fitness. The gym emphasizes personal growth and life skills that extend beyond the mat, creating a supportive community environment where students develop resilience and overcome challenges.
Dynamic Taekwondo of West End is a premier taekwondo academy in Henrico County specializing in youth instruction through after-school programs and classes. The school focuses on teaching traditional taekwondo techniques alongside character development, life skills, and core values to build confident, disciplined students. With multiple locations across the Richmond area, they serve families seeking both martial arts training and positive youth development.
Martial Arts World Clover Hill has served the Midlothian community since 2017, offering comprehensive martial arts training for adults, teens, and children. The school provides adult martial arts classes focused on fitness and mental resilience, kids programs emphasizing discipline and respect, self-defense training for practical safety skills, an after-school program, and summer camp. Their curriculum emphasizes personal growth, confidence building, and sustainable progress through structured, goal-driven instruction.
Warriors Way Martial Arts Institute offers comprehensive martial arts training for children and adults in Mechanicsville, featuring Karate, Taekwondo, and kickboxing instruction. The academy focuses on building confidence, discipline, and self-defense skills through structured classes designed for all experience levels. With experienced instructors and a commitment to helping students achieve their personal goals, Warriors Way provides a welcoming environment for families and individuals seeking quality martial arts training.
Richmond Traditional Martial Arts (RTMA) is a welcoming mixed martial arts academy in Mechanicsville, Virginia offering instruction in Atemi Ryu Jujitsu, Krav Maga, Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Kickboxing, and Tai Chi for both children and adults. Beyond combat techniques, RTMA emphasizes character development—teaching self-discipline, respect, integrity, and confidence—while delivering comprehensive fitness benefits including improved cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, strength, and mental stamina. The academy serves all skill levels with specialized after-school programs and summer camps, positioning itself as a place where students develop practical self-defense skills alongside personal growth.
Aamerican Colleges of Jiu-Jitsu & Karate is a self-defense academy in Henrico, VA teaching children and adults through multiple martial arts disciplines. Their primary offering is Aam-Ka Jiu-Jitsu, a proprietary mixed art combining Karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Japanese Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, Aikido, Ninjutsu, and Kenpo. They also offer dedicated Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes and Aikido instruction led by black belts, with all disciplines included in one monthly membership. The academy serves ages 5 and up with kids' classes, after-school programs, summer camps, and adult classes, emphasizing practical street-effective self-defense in a family-oriented environment.
CSC RVA is a World Kickboxing Association-certified combat sports center in Richmond offering Muay Thai, Boxing, Kickboxing, Jeet Kune Do, and Wing Chun classes for children and adults. Founded and staffed by former competitors, the studio serves everyone from absolute beginners to serious fighters preparing for amateur and professional competition. They provide both group classes and personal training with individualized attention, making them equally suited for fitness enthusiasts, self-defense learners, and aspiring competitors.
Taekwondo America of Richmond is a family-focused martial arts school in Henrico offering taekwondo classes for all ages, from preschoolers (ages 4½+) through adults. Their comprehensive programs emphasize self-defense skills alongside character development, teaching focus, discipline, respect, and confidence. The school creates a welcoming environment where students progress at their own pace, with experienced instructors dedicated to helping each person achieve their personal goals—whether that's earning a black belt or simply getting fit and building friendships.
The Fan Dojo offers traditional Aikido training rooted in Japanese martial arts philosophy, taught by senior instructors with decades of experience including direct lineage from Aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba. Beyond Aikido, they also teach Cuong Nhu Martial Arts, Shinto Muso Ryu Jodo, and Interpretive Dance, providing a comprehensive martial arts community focused on self-defense, conflict resolution, and mind-body development. Classes meet at multiple Richmond locations with flexible scheduling and no contracts required.
Blast Martial Arts is a family-focused martial arts school in Chesterfield offering classes for children (ages 3+), teens, and adults. The program emphasizes building confidence, self-defense skills, and black belt training through exercises, drills, sparring, and games. They also provide after-school programs and summer camps, with instructors who are background-checked and experienced.
Richmond Virginia Karate Dojo teaches Traditional Okinawan Shidokan Karate with a focus on practical self-defense, fitness, and personal growth. Owned and instructed by Isaac, a 2nd Degree Black Belt with over ten years of dedicated practice, the dojo offers group classes in fundamentals, intermediate training, and fitness-focused karate, plus private lessons and self-defense seminars for groups. With no contracts required, flexible scheduling, and a free first trial class, the dojo welcomes students of all ages and experience levels in a safe, inclusive environment.
Martial Arts World Henrico offers comprehensive martial arts training in multiple disciplines including karate, taekwondo, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for children and adults in the Richmond area. The school provides beginner-friendly instruction alongside competitive training programs, with a focus on building discipline, confidence, and physical fitness. Classes are structured for various skill levels, making it accessible whether you're starting your martial arts journey or advancing your competition training.
Taekwon Park Martial Arts & After School offers taekwondo instruction for children through their dedicated after-school program and regular classes. Located in Midlothian, they provide a structured environment for kids to learn martial arts fundamentals, discipline, and self-defense skills while building confidence and physical fitness.
American Karate Center in Richmond, VA offers expert-led karate and kickboxing classes for students of all ages. Their mission is to empower students through high-quality training that builds confidence, discipline, resilience, and physical strength while fostering a supportive community rooted in respect and growth.
Master Cho's World Class Martial Arts offers Taekwondo instruction for children (ages 3.5+), teens, and adults in Glen Allen. Led by Master J. Cho, the school emphasizes personal development alongside martial arts training, teaching confidence, discipline, respect, and focus. Programs include kids' classes with character building, family classes to keep busy families connected, adult fitness and self-defense training, an after-school care program, seasonal camps, and birthday parties.
East-West Wing Chun Kung Fu Association is the Central Virginia branch offering authentic Wing Chun training for adults and families. Located on W Cary Street in Richmond, they teach traditional Chinese martial arts with flexible scheduling and affordable pricing, including discounts for students and families training together.
Gibson's Martial Arts Inc is led by Grandmaster Lorenzo Gibson, a 7th degree black belt with over 35 years of martial arts expertise. Specializing in traditional Tae Kwon Do, the school also offers instruction in Korean weaponry (Kumdo), Aikido, Judo, Ju Jitsu, Karate, and Grappling. Grandmaster Gibson has trained over 400 black belts and instructed many students to state and national competition victories, teaching at Living Water Community Center and the Country Club of Virginia with private sessions available.
Martial Arts World North Chesterfield has served the local community since 1998, offering martial arts classes for adults, teens, and children alongside self-defense training, an after-school program, and summer camp. Their curriculum emphasizes structured progression, personal development, and building confidence and discipline through age-appropriate instruction. The school focuses on developing the whole individual—strong bodies, resilient minds, and positive attitudes—with experienced instructors who provide guidance and accountability at every stage of training.
Martial Arts World Chester is an established martial arts school serving Chester, VA with comprehensive programs for children, teens, and adults. They offer traditional martial arts classes, self-defense instruction, an after-school program, and a summer camp, all built on a time-tested curriculum focused on developing confidence, discipline, and character alongside physical fitness. Their approach emphasizes personal growth through structured training, and they promote what they call "The Modern Lifestyle" philosophy centered on functional fitness, mental clarity, and long-term wellness.
Cuong Nhu Richmond offers traditional Vietnamese martial arts training at the Humphrey Calder Community Center. Cuong Nhu is a hybrid martial art that combines elements of karate, kung fu, and judo, emphasizing practical self-defense and personal development. The dojo welcomes students of all ages and experience levels seeking authentic instruction in this distinctive discipline.
Tri Cities Jiu Jitsu Club is the top-ranked martial arts academy in the Richmond area with a Lantern Score of 85.13/100. Located in Colonial Heights, they offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Wrestling, and Judo for all ages starting at 4 years old, and are known for their welcoming, values-based approach to instruction.
None of the 51 martial arts schools in the Richmond area currently list weekend hours in their available information. We recommend contacting your preferred academy directly to ask about weekend class availability, as many schools may offer weekend sessions not reflected in standard listings.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Taekwondo, and Karate are the most widely offered disciplines across Richmond's 51 martial arts schools. Many academies also offer complementary training like Muay Thai, Kickboxing, and self-defense classes. Schools like Upstream BJJ (#2 ranked) and River City Kung Fu (#3 ranked) specialize in specific disciplines while others offer multiple options.
Resilient Martial Arts is specifically designed for young children starting at age 3 and emphasizes inclusive, accessible training. Other top options include Tri Cities Jiu Jitsu Club (ages 4+) and Blast Martial Arts (ages 3+). Both Resilient and Tri Cities are highly ranked and focus on making martial arts welcoming for the youngest students.
Richmond has several top-ranked BJJ academies including Upstream BJJ (85.06 Lantern Score), 804 Jiu-Jitsu/Team Passos (83.97), and Apex Jiu Jitsu (81.53). Most offer programs for both kids and adults with classes ranging from beginner fundamentals to advanced competition training, making BJJ accessible whether you're starting fresh or advancing your skills.
Yes, several highly-ranked schools prioritize family-based self-defense training. Action Reaction Jiu Jitsu Academy and Aegis Jiu Jitsu both offer programs for young children (ages 4+) through adults, while Richmond Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Self-Defense Academy specializes in self-defense instruction. Many schools also offer specialized self-defense classes alongside regular martial arts training.
Richmond offers diverse adult martial arts training including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Upstream BJJ, Revolution BJJ), Muay Thai (10 Kicks Muay Thai, CSC RVA), Kung Fu (Academy of Kung Fu, Richmond Moy Yat Kung Fu Academy), and mixed martial arts (MMA Institute). Most schools welcome beginners with no prior experience and offer flexible class schedules for working professionals.
Several schools offer cross-training in multiple disciplines: Mongrel Martial Arts teaches BJJ, Muay Thai, Judo, Kickboxing, and Aikido; Revolution BJJ offers BJJ, Muay Thai, Kickboxing, and yoga; and MMA Institute provides MMA, BJJ, Muay Thai, kickboxing, judo, and conditioning. These options are ideal if you want to explore different martial arts without visiting multiple schools.