Experience Martial Arts - Valparaiso Introduce
For families and individuals in the Valparaiso, Indiana region, finding a positive outlet for physical activity and personal growth is a top priority. In a community that values discipline and character, a place that offers more than just a workout stands out. Experience Martial Arts - Valparaiso is one such destination, a premier martial arts club that focuses on teaching life skills that extend far beyond the dojo floor. This is not a typical gym or sports club; it is a center for holistic development, where students of all ages can build confidence, learn valuable self-defense, and become part of a supportive community.
Experience Martial Arts has built a strong reputation for its comprehensive approach to training. The instructors are dedicated to a philosophy that emphasizes discipline, respect, and perseverance. These core values are integrated into every class, whether it's for the youngest "Experience Tigers" or for teens and adults seeking a new challenge. Parents consistently praise the academy for its positive impact on their children's behavior, noting how the lessons learned in class—such as a strong work ethic and focus—carry over into their school and home lives.
The club provides a structured yet encouraging environment, where everyone is challenged to be their best. The instructors, including Mr. Hillstead, are known for their ability to balance firmness with genuine care. They are committed to holding students accountable, which helps them understand the real-world consequences of their actions and choices. This unique blend of mentorship and discipline is a key reason why many families consider Experience Martial Arts to be one of the best decisions they have made for their children's development.
In addition to the character-building aspects, the club is a hub for high-quality martial arts instruction. From Taekwondo to a variety of self-defense programs, students are taught practical skills that can empower them in any situation. The supportive community extends beyond the dojo, with friendships being formed at tournaments and events. This sense of belonging is a powerful motivator for students to keep coming back, making Experience Martial Arts a true family where everyone is celebrated, whether they win or lose.
Located at 2759 W Morthland Dr, Valparaiso, IN 46385, USA, Experience Martial Arts is a conveniently situated spot for residents of Valparaiso and the surrounding Northwest Indiana communities. Its location on a major road makes it easily accessible for drop-offs and pick-ups. The area is well-connected, with a number of routes leading to the facility, making it a practical choice for families with busy schedules.
The academy has a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, demonstrating its commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that it is a welcoming place for everyone in the community. This feature is a significant convenience for individuals with mobility challenges and reflects the academy’s dedication to providing a seamless experience for all visitors. Free parking is available, eliminating the stress of finding a spot and making it easy for students and parents to get in and out quickly.
The facility itself is a clean and well-maintained space, designed to support focused training. Amenities such as a restroom are available on-site for the convenience of students and visitors. It is important to note that joining the club requires a membership and that appointments are necessary for certain services, ensuring a structured and organized environment. The accessibility of the location and its thoughtful features make Experience Martial Arts a practical and stress-free option for families in the region.
Experience Martial Arts - Valparaiso offers a diverse and comprehensive range of programs that cater to all ages and skill levels. Their curriculum is a blend of traditional martial arts, modern self-defense, and physical fitness training.
- Extreme Martial Arts (XMA): A dynamic and creative program that combines elements of gymnastics, acrobatics, and martial arts for a high-energy, performance-based experience.
- Family Martial Arts Classes: Programs designed to allow the entire family to train together, promoting physical fitness and strengthening family bonds.
- Experience Tigers & Karate 4 Kids: These programs introduce younger children to the world of martial arts in a fun, safe, and engaging way, focusing on building coordination, focus, and discipline.
- Teen & Adult Martial Arts: Classes for older students that provide a challenging workout and practical self-defense skills, with a focus on advanced techniques and leadership training.
- Defensive Tactics & Self-Defense: The academy offers specialized training in self-defense, including practical application, close-range weapons defense, and armed threat defense, providing students with effective skills for real-world situations.
- Physical Fitness Programs: Beyond martial arts, the club offers kickboxing, cardiovascular fitness, and full-body workout classes that incorporate body and weight training for a complete fitness regimen.
- Instructor Development: For dedicated students, the academy provides a path to becoming an instructor, teaching them leadership skills and allowing them to pass on their knowledge to the next generation.
- Private Trainings & Group Classes: The academy offers both group classes for a community experience and private trainings for a more personalized approach.
The variety of services ensures that the academy can support a student’s entire journey, from their very first class to achieving their personal and martial arts goals. The availability of active military discounts is a small but meaningful way the club gives back to the community.
Experience Martial Arts is distinguished by several key features that make it a truly exceptional place to train. These are the qualities that are consistently praised by its community members.
- Character Development: The academy's primary focus on discipline, respect, and confidence is a major highlight. Parents rave about how the lessons taught in class translate to improved behavior and focus at home and in school. The instructors' commitment to enforcing these values is a key factor in the students' success.
- Exceptional Instructors: The instructors are described as "wonderful" and "amazing at what they do." They are not only skilled martial artists but also effective mentors who genuinely care about each child's individual growth and personal goals. The personal touch, such as Mr. Hillstead's accountability measures, creates a powerful learning environment.
- Leadership and Mentorship: The academy provides opportunities for older students to take on leadership roles, helping to teach younger classes. This mentorship pushes them to be their best and instills valuable leadership skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.
- Strong Community: The club fosters a family-like atmosphere where students form friendships that extend beyond the dojo. This sense of community makes training more enjoyable and provides a strong support system for students.
- Practical and Effective Skills: The curriculum is not just about a sport; it's about practical self-defense and effective martial arts. This focus ensures that students are learning skills that are applicable and empowering in the real world.
These features demonstrate that Experience Martial Arts is a professional and nurturing institution that provides more than just a class—it provides a life-changing experience.
For those in the Valparaiso area ready to begin their martial arts journey, Experience Martial Arts is easy to contact.
The academy is located at 2759 W Morthland Dr, Valparaiso, IN 46385, USA.
To get in touch, you can call their phone number at (219) 713-6047. The mobile phone number is also listed as +1 219-713-6047. The staff is available to answer questions about their programs and schedule an appointment for your first visit. Given that an appointment is required, it is best to call ahead.
When considering a martial arts club or physical fitness program in Valparaiso, Indiana, Experience Martial Arts stands out as an exceptional choice. What is worth choosing about this establishment is its unwavering commitment to the holistic development of its students. This is a place where discipline, confidence, and leadership are not just words but are actively taught and reinforced. The real-world evidence from multiple parents, whose children have transformed their behavior and developed a strong work ethic, is a powerful testament to the academy's success.
The instructors' dedication to each student, the family-like community, and the practical nature of the skills taught make this more than just a club—it's a second home. The variety of programs, from kickboxing to self-defense and leadership training, ensures that the academy can support a student's journey for years to come. The accessibility features and convenient parking also make it a practical option for any family. In a world where character is as important as physical ability, Experience Martial Arts provides a valuable and enriching experience that is well worth the investment for any local resident.
Experience Martial Arts - Valparaiso Services
Martial Arts Club
- Extreme Martial Arts: XMA
Want to develop elite skills? XMA is the perfect program to test your perseverance, discipline, and fitness levels. Learn the techniques, acrobatics, kicks, and tricks to challenge yourself and accomplish more than what you imagined!
- Family Martial Arts Classes
Train together, grow together! Our Family Martial Arts classes offer a unique way for kids and parents to build skills, stay active, and support each other on a shared journey. Classes are designed for all ages and experience levels, making it fun, challenging, and rewarding for the whole family.
- Instructor Development
- Life Skills Training
Our Life Skills Training program goes beyond kicks and punches—helping students develop focus, confidence, respect, and self-discipline. Through martial arts-based lessons, students build strong character and leadership habits that carry over into school, home, and everyday life.
- Martial Arts Instruction
- Private Trainings
- Groups Classes
Taekwondo School
- Experience Tigers
Our Experience Tigers program helps young kids build focus, balance, coordination, and confidence through fun martial arts classes. Each session combines basic techniques, games, and life skills like listening and respect—all in a playful, structured environment. Try a free trial class today!
- Experience Karate 4 Kids
Our K4K program builds strong, confident kids through martial arts training that focuses on discipline, respect, and goal setting. Students improve strength, coordination, and self-defense while developing leadership and focus in a positive, structured environment. Try a free trial class today!
- Teen & Adult Martial Arts
Designed for ages 13 and up, this program blends traditional martial arts with modern fitness and mindset training. Improve strength, flexibility, and self-defense skills while reducing stress, building discipline, and gaining lasting confidence. All experience levels welcome. Try a free trial class
Self Defense School
- Defensive Tactics
Our Defensive Tactics training focuses on practical strategies for de-escalation, awareness, and physical response. Students learn how to manage threats, control distance, and use effective techniques to stay safe in real-world situations. Ideal for all skill levels.
- Practical Application
- Effective Martial Arts
- Armed Threat Defense
Prepare for real-world dangers with Armed Threat Defense training. This program teaches how to identify, avoid, and respond to threats involving weapons, focusing on safety, situational awareness, and disarm techniques for various armed scenarios.
- Close Range Weapons Defense
Close-Range Weapons Defense trains students to react quickly and effectively when faced with an immediate, close-quarters weapon threat. Learn how to redirect, disarm, and control attacks with practical techniques rooted in self-defense and martial arts fundamentals.
Physical Fitness Program
- Kickboxing
- Cardiovascular Fitness
- Full Body Workout
- Body & Weight Training
Experience Martial Arts - Valparaiso Details
Service options
- Onsite services
- Online classes
Highlights
- Active military discounts
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Amenities
- Restroom
Planning
- Appointment required
- Membership required
Parking
- Free parking lot
Experience Martial Arts - Valparaiso Photos
Experience Martial Arts - Valparaiso Location
Experience Martial Arts - Valparaiso
2759 W Morthland Dr, Valparaiso, IN 46385, USA
Experience Martial Arts - Valparaiso Reviews
skillsdisciplineleadershiptaekwondoadultsconfidencerankingsADHDblack beltsboys
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Love Experience Martial Arts!! Not only do my kids learn taekwondo skills, but learn self defense, discipline and leadership skills as well. I have teens that are both black belts. They not only expand on the skills they have learned, but are learning leadership skills and help lower rank skills.The discipline skills don't just stay in class, but extend to school and home. Mr. Hillstead insures that if a student is acting out in school or home then there are consequences in class.Friendships are formed not only in class, but at tournaments as well. We don't go to every tournament, but when we do we make friends and my kids learn more. Win or lose it's still a great time!
June 25 · Gwen AngeloskiMy boys have been attending taekwondo classes here for years. It has been a great opportunity for them to learn not only the physical skills, but the instructors have taught them confidence, respect, discipline, and leadership values. My oldest son is now helping teach the younger kids classes and this pushes him to be his best. It’s a great school with wonderful instructors.
June 25 · Carrie SaroukosExcellent place for people of all ages to attend classes of all types. Lots to offer in a fun environment. Great instructors and skills classes. Offers taekwondo skills and self defense skills for ages 3-100!!!! Great place for kids to learn focus and discipline. Lots of top notch students and instructors with multiple competitive state and district titles and top 10 in the world rankings. Great place to bring the whole family. Not just for the kids. Adults welcome too. Can't say enough about how happy we are to have our kids enrolled here.
May 28 · Chris DodrillSupportive of Neurodivergent Kiddos!Our family loves Experience Martial Arts! Lead instructor, Mr. Zach Hillestad, and his crew have been extremely patient & accommodating to our autistic/ADHD 5-year-old son. When I first spoke with Mr. Zach at the beginning about my son and his special needs, he was very supportive and made sure we shared the same goals.One of my favorite things is that the teens with black belts serve as mentors and teachers during class alongside Mr. Zach. These dedicated teens are amazing role models and impress me every class with their patience and leadership skills.The studio is a very positive and encouraging environment. You feel welcome right away. All of the instructors learn your child’s name and address him/her by it, so each child feels important as an individual.I’m so grateful for the experience our family has had at Experience Martial Arts, and I will continue to refer my friends and family to them!
June 30 · Christine LundquistOur daughter has been attending this school for years and has learned so much. It was suggested as help for adhd and it has done wonders. Teaches discipline and focus. Also helps to build confidence and people skills. Couldn't be happier with the outcome of her training at this school. Lots to offer for boys and girls of all ages even adults!!!
May 30 · MELLISA DODRILL
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