American Colleges of Kombido

- 475 Campbell Ave, West Haven, CT 06516

In the world of martial arts, many schools focus on a single discipline, but in West Haven, Connecticut, there is a truly unique option for those seeking a comprehensive approach to self-defense and personal growth. American Colleges of Kombido is a self-defense school that teaches the unique martial arts style known as Kombido, which translates literally to "the way of combination." This is not your typical dojo; it is a place where fundamental techniques from various martial arts are combined with strategic thinking to provide an effective and efficient form of self-defense for all ages and skill levels.

The goal of Kombido is to provide individuals with a path to develop their own ability to defend themselves while also strengthening their mind, body, and spirit. The system is designed to go beyond just physical moves, focusing on a combination of martial arts fundamentals such as stances, blocks, strikes, and foot maneuvers, along with crucial skills like strategic timing, distancing, trapping, and takedowns. This holistic approach ensures that students learn not just to react, but to think and adapt in real-world situations. The positive impact is already evident in the experiences of local families, with one parent noting that their kids "have been in his class for 2 months" and that it's an "outstanding class!"

At the heart of the American Colleges of Kombido is its lead instructor, Master Doug Hodge. With over 38 years of experience in martial arts, Master Doug is a highly respected and knowledgeable figure in the community. He holds a 7th Degree Black Belt and was even inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame for Lifetime Achievement. His dedication and expertise are central to the school's mission to enrich the lives of everyone who walks through the doors. The school is not just a place for training; it is a family of martial artists who share their challenges and victories, creating a supportive and encouraging environment for everyone.

The benefits of training here extend to all aspects of life, as the curriculum is designed to help students achieve physical, mental, and spiritual balance. The training improves physical balance through practice and partner work, while mental balance is achieved as students learn to make proper self-defense decisions in a short period of time. The spiritual balance comes from learning to discern right from wrong and freeing oneself from doubt, fear, and low self-esteem.

American Colleges of Kombido is located at 475 Campbell Ave, West Haven, CT 06516, USA. This accessible location makes it a convenient option for residents of West Haven and surrounding Connecticut communities. The school is committed to inclusivity, offering a wheelchair-accessible parking lot to ensure easy access for all students and visitors. The facility also includes a restroom for the comfort and convenience of all who attend classes. The straightforward accessibility and welcoming atmosphere make it simple for anyone in the area to begin their self-defense journey.

Services Offered

• Kombido Training: A unique martial arts system combining fundamentals from various disciplines for effective self-defense.
• Self-Defense Classes: Programs focused on practical and real-world self-defense techniques.
• Karate-Jutsu: A blend of Karate and Jujutsu techniques.
• Aikido: Training in the art of defensive throws and joint locks.
• Weapons Training: For upper-belt students, instruction in various traditional martial arts weapons.
• Grappling: Classes focused on ground-based combat and control.
• Judo: Instruction in throws and grappling techniques.
• Cardio-Kickboxing: A high-energy class that combines fitness with martial arts.
• Women's Self-Defense: Specialized classes designed to empower women with vital self-protection skills.
• Reality-Based Street Training: For adults, a program focusing on practical self-defense in real-world scenarios.
• Tiny Tigers: Classes for ages 3-4, emphasizing coordination, safety, and awareness.
• Little Dragons: For ages 5-6, this class introduces more formal martial arts training with a focus on motor skills and respectful interaction.
• PeeWees: A traditional martial arts program for ages 7-10, focusing on concentration and self-control.
• Juniors: Classes for ages 11-13, designed to empower pre-teens and build physical and mental toughness.
• Adults Program: For ages 14 and up, classes that teach the art of Aam-ka-jutsu and improve confidence and personal safety.

Features / Highlights

• Master Instructor Doug Hodge: The school is led by a highly experienced and respected 7th Degree Black Belt, known for his excellent teaching style.
• Unique Kombido System: A distinctive curriculum that combines multiple martial arts into a single, highly effective self-defense program.
• Holistic Approach: The training is designed to develop the mind, body, and spirit, not just physical techniques.
• Wheelchair-Accessible Parking Lot: The facility is welcoming to everyone, with convenient parking for individuals with mobility needs.
• Restroom: On-site restroom facilities for the comfort of students and guests.
• Diverse Classes: Programs are available for all ages, from young children to adults, ensuring everyone can find a class that fits their needs.
• Community-Oriented Environment: A welcoming and supportive atmosphere where students are part of a martial arts family.
• Focus on Real-World Application: The curriculum emphasizes practical self-defense for everyday situations.

Contact Information

Address: 475 Campbell Ave, West Haven, CT 06516, USA

Phone: (203) 623-1729

What is worth choosing

Choosing the right place to train in self-defense is a big decision, and for those in Connecticut, American Colleges of Kombido offers a compelling and unique option. The standout reason to choose this school is its specialized martial art, Kombido. Unlike schools that focus on a single, rigid style, Kombido is a practical and fluid system designed for modern self-defense. The integration of techniques from various arts—including Karate, Judo, and Aikido—creates a well-rounded and effective curriculum that prepares students for a wide range of situations. This "way of combination" is not just a catchy name; it's a philosophy that makes the training both efficient and comprehensive.

The leadership of Master Doug Hodge is another significant factor. With nearly four decades of experience and a Hall of Fame induction, he brings a level of expertise and dedication that is hard to find. His ability to connect with students, as evidenced by the positive review from a parent, ensures that every class is not only educational but also engaging and fun. For families, knowing that their children are learning from a highly respected and caring instructor provides great peace of mind.

Furthermore, the school's focus on a holistic approach to martial arts is a major differentiator. The training is as much about building mental and spiritual strength as it is about physical prowess. This focus on discipline, confidence, and inner balance makes the school a true partner in a student's personal development. The accessibility features, such as the wheelchair-accessible parking lot, also demonstrate a strong commitment to serving the entire community, making it an inclusive place for everyone to train. By choosing American Colleges of Kombido, you are not just learning to defend yourself; you are embarking on a journey to strengthen your mind, body, and spirit in a supportive and expert-led environment.

American Colleges of Kombido

475 Campbell Ave, West Haven, CT 06516, USA