Virginia Martial Arts Center

- 3325 Taylor Rd, Chesapeake, VA 23321

Introduction / Overview

For nearly five decades, the Virginia Martial Arts Center has been a cornerstone of the Hampton Roads community, building a strong reputation for excellence in martial arts instruction and character development. Located in Chesapeake, this is more than just a place to learn a series of kicks and punches; it is a family-oriented dojo where the values of confidence, respect, discipline, and community truly shine through. Led by the highly respected Headmaster, Hanshi Darren Myers, the center has become a trusted institution for families seeking to empower their children and themselves through the profound benefits of martial arts training. The approach here is holistic, focusing on the development of the whole person, not just the athlete. Whether you are a parent looking for a structured after-school activity for your child or an adult seeking to improve your fitness and learn self-defense, Virginia Martial Arts Center provides a supportive and enriching environment.

The academy's curriculum is impressively diverse, offering everything from traditional Japanese Karate and Kendo to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and the ancient art of Tai Chi. This wide range of disciplines ensures that students can find a path that resonates with their personal goals and interests. The instructors, or "senseis" and "leaders," are described by students and parents as "great" and "awesome," known for their knowledge, support, and genuine care. This nurturing atmosphere helps students of all ages feel safe and motivated, pushing them to excel through "internal motivation" rather than external pressure. The Virginia Martial Arts Center is a place where every student is welcomed into a family-like atmosphere, where they are encouraged to persevere, and where they can achieve their full potential, both on and off the mat.

Location and Accessibility

The Virginia Martial Arts Center is conveniently situated at 3325 Taylor Rd, Chesapeake, VA 23321, USA. Its location in the Western Branch area makes it easily accessible for families and individuals from Chesapeake, Suffolk, Portsmouth, and other neighboring communities in the Hampton Roads region. The academy is located on a main road, making it simple to find and access. For the convenience of all visitors, the facility offers a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring that the academy is welcoming and available to everyone in the community. This commitment to accessibility reflects the center's mission to be an inclusive and supportive space for all who wish to train. The ample and accessible parking also adds to the ease of visiting, making drop-offs and pickups for classes and events a smooth experience for parents.

Services Offered

• Martial Arts Disciplines: A comprehensive selection of martial arts is offered, including traditional Karate and Kung Fu, as well as Kickboxing, Jiu-jitsu, and Tai Chi.
• Youth Programs: Specialized programs like "PowerKids Ages 4-6" and "Kids Karate Classes" are designed to build confidence, discipline, and motor skills in a fun environment.
• Adult Programs: The center provides "Adult Karate" and "Tai Chi Classes" which are excellent for fitness, stress relief, and learning self-defense.
• After-School Karate Program: A well-structured after-school program, including "Transported After School Karate" and "Homework Assistance," provides a safe and productive environment for children after the school day ends.
• Summer Camps: The academy hosts "After School Summer Camps" and "Summer Camp Programs" which offer a mix of fitness activities, martial arts training, and fun recreational events.
• Weapons Training: For those interested in advanced skills, the center offers "Weapons Classes" and training in specific disciplines like "Karate Weapons Training," "Kendo," and "Iaido."
• Fitness and Self-Defense: The curriculum includes classes focused on "Overall Fitness," "Self Defense Fitness," and "Self-Defense Training," providing practical skills and health benefits.
• Character Building: All programs incorporate a "Character Building Program" that emphasizes values like respect, honesty, and self-control.

Features / Highlights

• Expert and Nurturing Instructors: The academy is praised for its "great" senseis and leaders, who are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and supportive. They are known for their ability to push students to excel in a way that builds "internal motivation."
• Strong Sense of Community: The Virginia Martial Arts Center is widely recognized for its strong, family-like atmosphere. The dojo, as one review notes, is a place where "the students are truly family" and parents are actively involved in building a supportive structure.
• Focus on Holistic Development: The center’s approach extends far beyond physical training. It is a place that teaches "life lessons," including respect, teamwork, and acceptance, helping students become better people both inside and outside the dojo.
• Diverse and Engaging Classes: From traditional martial arts to modern self-defense and unique weapons classes, the academy offers a wide range of programs. Regular classes are well-organized and even include fun games for kids, which keeps them engaged and motivated.
• Welcoming and Safe Facility: The facility is described as "clean, orderly and safe" with well-maintained equipment. The staff is consistently noted for making new students feel welcome and comfortable from the very first day.
• Convenient and Accessible: The center features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot, making it easy for everyone to attend. Payments are simple with the acceptance of credit and debit cards.

Contact Information

Address: 3325 Taylor Rd, Chesapeake, VA 23321, USA

Phone: (757) 483-0195

What is worth choosing

Choosing the Virginia Martial Arts Center is about more than just finding a sports activity; it is about joining a legacy of excellence and a community that genuinely cares. The most compelling reason to choose this academy is its unwavering commitment to building character and confidence in its students. As one satisfied parent expressed, "The elements of building confidence, community, support, discipline, exercise, and respect are what truly shine through." This focus on holistic development is what sets it apart from other martial arts schools in the region. The academy's ability to help children develop their own "internal motivation" is a key indicator of its success and a powerful tool for a child's long-term growth.

While some programs, like the summer camps, may not be a perfect fit for every child, the regular karate courses and the overall environment are highly praised and have proven to be a long-term commitment for many families. The family-like atmosphere, where parents actively contribute to the supportive structure, creates a nurturing ecosystem for students. The staff's dedication to student safety and enjoyment, their knowledgeability, and their ability to keep kids focused are consistently highlighted in positive reviews. For residents of Chesapeake and the surrounding areas, Virginia Martial Arts Center offers a proven path to physical fitness, mental discipline, and a sense of belonging. It is a place where hard work is celebrated, and character is forged, making it a highly recommended choice for any family looking to make a meaningful investment in their future.

Virginia Martial Arts Center

3325 Taylor Rd, Chesapeake, VA 23321, USA