Amherst Martial Arts

- White Barn Studios, 20 Dickinson St, Amherst, MA 01002

Introduction / Overview

For families and individuals in Massachusetts seeking a martial arts school that combines physical training with profound personal development, Amherst Martial Arts stands as a beacon of excellence in the Pioneer Valley. Founded in 1991 by the highly respected 4th-degree black belt Annie Schwarz, this Tae Kwon Do studio—or dojang, as it's known in Korean—has been a cornerstone of the Amherst community for decades. It is celebrated not just for its technical instruction but for its unique, supportive, and completely gender-neutral environment. As one review notes, it is a "wonderful and distinctive" studio that focuses on building confidence, self-reliance, and camaraderie among its students.

Amherst Martial Arts is dedicated to the tenets of Tae Kwon Do, a Korean martial art that translates literally to "the way of the foot and hand." The school’s philosophy goes beyond physical skills, emphasizing essential life lessons such as discipline, perseverance, and control. It's a place where students are encouraged to learn at their own pace and level, while also supporting one another in a strong community setting. The positive feedback from parents and adult students alike highlights the school’s success in achieving these goals. From young children building gross motor skills and self-control to teens and adults enjoying a vigorous, fun workout, the programs are designed to meet diverse needs and goals.

A key feature that sets this school apart is the leadership of its founder, Annie Schwarz. Her terrific, supportive manner is particularly praised by parents who see their children's confidence and self-reliance grow under her guidance. This encouraging approach, coupled with a non-macho environment, makes Amherst Martial Arts one of the best co-ed sports experiences available. In addition to regular classes, the school also offers specialized programs like women's self-defense courses and even has a partnership with a high-demand summer camp, Kicks and Corrals, which combines Tae Kwon Do with horseback riding and swimming. This holistic approach to martial arts training makes Amherst Martial Arts a truly special and valuable institution for the community.

Location and Accessibility

Amherst Martial Arts is conveniently located at White Barn Studios, 20 Dickinson St, Amherst, MA 01002, USA. This location is easily accessible for residents of Amherst and the surrounding communities, including Hadley, Northampton, and Sunderland. Situated in the heart of the area, the dojo is a central and practical choice for families and individuals looking for a consistent weekly activity. The physical setting, housed in the charming White Barn Studios, offers a distinct and welcoming atmosphere that is different from a typical commercial gym.

The school is committed to accessibility, offering a wheelchair accessible parking lot to ensure that everyone can access the facility without any issues. This is a crucial detail that demonstrates the school's inclusive philosophy. For all students, the convenience of parking is a significant benefit. The location provides both free on-site parking and free street parking, which removes the common stress of finding a spot before class. This ease of access makes it simple to attend classes regularly, fitting seamlessly into the busy schedules of Massachusetts residents.

The dojo's location at 20 Dickinson St not only offers convenience but also provides a sense of community. The nearby area is a hub of activity, allowing students and their families to combine their Tae Kwon Do sessions with other daily errands. The school also adapted to recent global challenges, offering "excellent" virtual classes during the lockdown, a testament to its flexibility and dedication to its students' continuous training. This blend of a central, accessible physical location with adaptable programming makes Amherst Martial Arts a reliable and forward-thinking choice for martial arts training in the region.

Services Offered

• Taekwondo
• Martial Arts For All Ages
• Taekwondo School
• Taekwondo Training
• Women's self-defense courses
• Kicks and Corrals summer camp

Features / Highlights

• Wheelchair accessible parking lot
• Restroom facilities available
• Accepts credit cards and debit cards
• Discounts for kids and family discounts
• Free parking lot and free street parking
• Owned and led by 4th-degree black belt Annie Schwarz
• Supportive, gender-neutral, and non-macho environment
• Offers virtual classes
• Partnership with Kicks and Corrals summer camp
• Strong focus on building confidence, self-reliance, and discipline

Contact Information

Address: White Barn Studios, 20 Dickinson St, Amherst, MA 01002, USA

Phone: (413) 512-1370

What is worth choosing

For anyone in the Massachusetts area considering martial arts, Amherst Martial Arts offers a compelling list of reasons why it is a top choice. The reviews from real customers provide a powerful endorsement of the school’s unique value. The emphasis on character-building tenets of Tae Kwon Do—such as strength, agility, discipline, and perseverance—is consistently praised. As one parent noted, the progress of their child in these areas was "amazing." This holistic approach ensures that students gain skills that are not just for the dojo but for life. The school's philosophy, led by Annie Schwarz, is particularly effective with children, as she has a "terrific manner" that supports and builds confidence.

The community aspect is another significant reason to choose Amherst Martial Arts. Students feel they are part of a supportive network, learning at their own pace while also encouraging one another. The fact that the environment is "completely gender neutral and non-macho" makes it a refreshing and inclusive space, setting it apart from other sports or martial arts studios. The ability for both children and adults, and even parents and children, to train together or at the same location fosters a strong family bond, making it an ideal activity for the whole household. The long-term impact is evident, with one review mentioning a student who earned their black belt and now teaches younger classes, demonstrating the school's success in fostering leaders.

Practical considerations also make Amherst Martial Arts a smart choice. The variety of parking options, including free on-site and street parking, simplifies attendance. The availability of family and kids' discounts makes it an affordable option for households. Furthermore, the school's flexibility in offering virtual classes and its partnership with a summer camp showcase its dedication to providing continuous and diverse opportunities for its students. All of these factors—expert and encouraging instruction, a strong community, a focus on holistic development, and convenient amenities—combine to make Amherst Martial Arts an outstanding and highly recommended institution for anyone in the region looking to start or continue their martial arts journey.

Amherst Martial Arts

White Barn Studios, 20 Dickinson St, Amherst, MA 01002, USA