World Martial Arts Center Happy Kicks in Brooklyn
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Brooklyn, Kings County, New York, US
Site: http://www.happykicks.com/
- Monday:11AM–8PM
- Tuesday:11AM–8PM
- Wednesday:11AM–8PM
- Thursday:11AM–8PM
- Friday:11AM–8PM
- Saturday:Closed
- Sunday:Closed
There are few places I know of where adults and children are truly taught martial arts in a way which is customized for the individual. WMAC offers not only a comprehensive martial arts program but allows the individual to learn and grow at a pace which is best for that student. Physical, mental and emotional growth are inevitable with consistent practice. The childrens program is wonderful and the childrens summer program is one of the best.
The World Martial Arts Center is a great school. I have been training there for nearly 8 years. Not only does it offer physical fitness and self defense skills, it gives you life skills and an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of yourself and develop a greater awareness of the world around you. Also, its fun!
Ive had the most incredible experience coming here to train. Ive never been healthier or happier and so much of it is due to the phenomenal program and excellent instructors at this dojang. I never write reviews, but the World Martial Arts Center deserves the praise. If your on the fence about it, give it a try for a week. It will be one of the best decisions you make, one that will change your life for the better.
I have been a member of World Martial Art Center Arts for 15 years. This is more than just another Martial Art School; this is a family that strives to make each member the best person they can be in all aspects of their life. WMAC takes a holistic approach to Martial Arts which includes self-defense, techniques, forms, weapons and meditation. Sabumnim David L. Herbert has been an instrumental figure, mentor and special person to me and has had helped guide me though different phases of my life. In addition to learning Hapkido and self-defense, I have also gained a great deal of self-confidence, respect, self-awareness and integrity. As a new father, I can’t wait for the day until my son is old enough to join. I strong recommend considering WMAC in your martial art joinery….
Joining WMAC was definitely one of the best life decisions Ive made! I joined the school almost 8 years ago, when I was a high school student. I came into the school wanting to learn self-defense techniques but Im grateful to have learned a lot more than that. Martial arts has allowed me to grow stronger not only physically but mentally and emotionally, into a confident adult. Ive been able to apply the lessons I learned on the mat to situations in everyday life.The master of the school, Sabumnim, has a way of seeing his students full potential and gives them the environment to grow into their best selves. The instructors of the school are also excellent, some whove been training at WMAC for more than 20 years. Not only are they patient with their students but they are also wise and knowledgeable - Im deeply inspired by them!Furthermore, WMAC is not just a gym but a community, a place that brings together diverse groups of people. Ive met many wonderful, kind and generous people training at the school, some who are my closest friends today. I highly recommend this martial arts school - not only will you get a great workout and learn to protect yourself but youll be a part of a wonderful community and be able to fulfill your full potential!
I have been attending classes for just over 3 months and really enjoyed my experience so far. The instructors and fellow students have created a respectful environment that makes hapkido very accessible. Theres a great emphasis on holistic training here, which is something I really appreciate. Not only are we training physically, but also mentally and even spiritually.
I attended this school for 5 yrs. Some seasons I attended more consistently that others, but always made it a point to attend at least 1 time a week during the busiest parts of my work/life balance. While I was put on the spot many times for not following directions to a T, and felt embarrassed or challenged in front of others, this school was a great period of my life that gave me a new confidence. I see how it was teaching respect, focus, and great repetition of being present through learning this martial art craft/skill. Without a doubt this school taught me how to defend myself, protect myself in any situation, and gave me the confidence to walk freely without concern wherever I go. Ive always been a very shy person and just stayed in the background or invisible. While I was at this school it definitely helped me break out of my shell. Ive since attended many other schools, fight academies, and train in other styles of martial arts. I always think about how the instructors broke everything down slowly and repetition of one thing was intense training to were all becomes second nature at the WMAC. I was Never injured through training or learning at this school, which is something I cannot say for other places and classes Ive attended over the years. It may seem like a very, very slow start as you get going here, but it is building onto a larger system of skills for you to carry with you wherever you go. One of the most important things to remember when training or learning at a school is find buddies, find partners to practice with. Off hours and when the school may be closed you can still train and have that accountability. This is where you see great improvement and excelling rapidly. Everyone I met while attending this school was extremely kind and helpful. I have 2 friends I made while attending this school that are now friends for life, and that was definitely not part of my goal when attending this school. But its that type of school, great people. You just have to find the people you relate with and can train with. All the Best with your decision making on choosing a school that is right for you! : )
An amazing place, you should totally go!There’s plenty of equipment, enthusiastic and qualified instructors, and a wonderful sense of community. You will receive high-level training and individual attention. World Martial Arts Center exudes a feeling of openness and welcoming. Students of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures attend.I studied at World Martial Arts Center for over 10 years. One of the things I liked most was the blend of traditional and modern. It felt like a living martial art, as opposed to rote training in orthodoxy. WMAC integrates the latest in sports medicine into the curriculum.On a physical level, the expert instruction is great. It may sound cliché, but you WILL feel more powerful and confident. And that’s just the beginning! Later you’ll go beyond the physical and increase your focus, persistence, and perseverance. The benefits are truly transferable to other areas of your life.Also, with further martial arts training, you will realize a deep sense of calm and peace.Sabumnim Herbert, the school’s founder, provides the right amount of challenge. He recognizes that everyone has a unique instrument and temperament, and will adjust the difficulty level accordingly. I get the feeling that he believes in the students more than they believe in themselves. He’s kind, generous, and a great role model.World Martial Arts Center is a place where one is able to be their best self. I’m grateful for my time spent there.
When I walked into the World Martial Arts Center in the Summer of 2012, I knew my search for THE best martial arts school was over.Found and directed by Master Herbert (SaBumNim), the school introduces a wholesome and healthy lifestyle that is physically, mentally, and emotionally empowering. Each class is unique and focuses on flexibility, strength, agility, mental-fortitude - suitable for all ages, body types, and training levels. Not only you learn self-defense, the school and its warm community encourages you to push yourself to levels youve never achieved before - physically, mentally, emotionally. The school focuses on HapKiDo, a traditional Korean Mixed Martial Arts style with roots in Aikido and TaeKwonDo. The WMAC teaches HapKiDo in addition to boxing, judo, jujitsu, and weapons such as staff and sword. Its a very well-rounded curriculum that maximizes your potential in stand-up and ground combat and self-defense.I highly recommend the childrens classes as well. The small and mighty childrens instructor team gives each child individual attention, improving their focus, confidence, leadership skills, fitness, and self-defense.
Grandmaster SaBumNim David L. Herbert has been teaching HapKiDo, a Korean martial art, in New York City for about 30 years now. His school, The World Martial Arts Center, provides a high-level of training and instruction in weapons and open-hand forms and techniques, many of which are useful real-life self-defense skills. The school offers a safe and clean environment for morning, mid-day, and afternoon classes as well as an afternoon children’s program. It is also one of the few school in the area that is dedicated to serious training; it is not an assembly-line black-belt factory.
I trained at WMAC for 10 years and it honestly changed my life. So much more than an intense workout, the training promotes mental and emotional growth and has a way of bringing out the best in people. Some awesome things about the school:- Master Herbert is an internationally respected grandmaster who is an expert teacher and inspiring coach dedicated to bringing out the best in his students;- the training is very structured, you will make your way through a curriculum, building up skills, but at the same time, every class is a surprise and you always get an amazing workout;- the school is definitely a caring community, people leave their egos at the door, we all work together and help each other out; everything from training buddies to lifelong friendships to marriages have happened between the students here;- diversity in the school is amazing... kindness and inclusivity reign;- equal ratio of men and women, very feminist vibe, womens strength is assumed and at least half of the instructors are women;- the instructors arent just top notch in terms of skills and teaching abilities, but they are generous and kind;- its nothing like a gym but rather like a beautiful temple with plants and hanging scrolls and sculptures, always clean and often smelling of incense... a place that elevates youReally, I could go on. The only reason Im not still training there is because Im on the west coast now. And I can say that I have been searching for another martial arts school that even comes close to WMAC, and sadly I cant find it. If you have the opportunity to train at WMAC, just do it.
This is a phenomenal school. The quality and caliber of the school and the training is exceptional. It embodies mind, body and spirit. It is truly all about the flow. Learn how to defend yourself, have fun, use different weapons, in a safe environment. The trainers are also exceptional all rooting for you to succeed and do your best. It is a great school, community and family. You cant help but fall in love with the whole package.
After having been a student of WMAC for 22 years I feel the urge to finally write a brief review expressing my appreciation of this amazing place that has been a second home to me and my family. Four of my children have been through the kids program and three are still actively training at the school. I know it sounds kind of crazy, but my family is not an anomaly at this school. Many of my peers and fellow students have been around for a couple of decades and now have children in the program as well, (although I think I have the record with 4!) This is a testament to the founder and pillar of the school, grandmaster Sabunim David Herbert.We are blessed to have a teacher whose values and conduct come from another era where tradition, martial arts etiquette and integrity are paramount to a dojang community and thus are reflected in every detail of the WMAC curriculum and facility. Sabunims devotion to his students and the dojang community are that of an ancient sage. The quality and level of instruction go beyond what one would expect of a martial arts school in these modern times. We do of course learn and practice effective high level techniques that include conditioning, kick boxing, hand strikes, jujitsu, grappling, wrist locks, throws, weaponry, forms, gun and knife defense, but this only skims the surface of what is taught at World Martial Arts. The best lessons are the life teachings that develop self esteem, confidence and self worth which include the cultivation of compassion, humility, perseverance, responsibility, and discipline.The 6000 square foot dojang is state of the art as martial arts schools go. The Feng Shui is all in line and every detail has been mindfully considered. Natural light floods and fills the space in the daytime with three exposures of windows facing to the north, south and east. The training area is lined with high quality mats and a dozen heavy bags hanging for bag work at the perimeter. The school is beautiful with new equipment always incoming. Adult classes are held 7 days a week with open training sessions for those that want to work independently on their practice. Kids classes are also conveniently held 7 days a week. The location is amazing and close to all trains in downtown Brooklyn.
At WMAC, you will learn martial arts, learn about yourself, and become part of a supportive community of like-minded practitioners. Founder and owner Sabumnim David L. Herbert is an insightful teacher, role model, and compassionate spirit. You will learn much from him about martial arts and how to be a good person. WMAC offers classes for all levels and ages. Its summer camp for kids is especially notable for its quality programming.
WMAC is an excellent school headed by one of the top teachers in the area. I have been a student at WMAC for 17 years, my training here helped me to stay healthy, focused and balanced.Beginners will be guided through the basics and will quickly see success with one technique building upon the next. Its like learning a language. In particular I like working with weapons such as knife, sword or staff. Everybody no matter the age or athletically predisposition will find their space and will benefit from the physical and mental improvements stemming from the beautiful art of Hapkido.
Four years ago I was looking for a martial arts school for my son, who at the time was 7 years old. I did some research and found World Martial Arts Center, and I began bringing him to children’s classes every Saturday.After a year of bringing my son every week to class, I decided to try a class myself. Participating as an adult student revealed an entirely different side of WMAC to me: I felt the power and encouragement of the devoted and highly-trained instructors, and even as a newcomer to the training floor I experienced the support and love of the other WMAC members who trained alongside me. Once I tried it, I knew that this is where I belonged, and I embarked on my own martial arts journey of personal growth and self-discovery.Finding WMAC has been one of the best things to happen to me and my family. Training has not only helped me keep physically fit, but has opened realms of spiritual experience to me that I couldn’t have imagined.On that Sunday afternoon four years ago, when I put on a white belt for the first time and walked onto the mats, I only thought about getting some exercise and sharing a physical activity with my son. I had no idea that the physical training was a doorway into a deep personal practice that has touched many parts of my life. It’s exciting to think that you, reading this review, might be on the threshold of undertaking a journey like mine.
An amazing school with an amazing Master. I have been lucky enough to have been a student at this school for over 20 years, and have the highest praise for the school, the master, the students and the curriculum. My life has been changed for the better since joining the school back in the early nineties, and could not imagine my life without World Martial Arts Center and Master Herbert.
Fantastic place to learn martial arts with an emphasis on complete (body, mind, spirit) training. Very welcoming to new students and a genuine interest from higher belts (including black belt) in all students progress. For example, I couldnt make it for several weeks because of injuries (from skiing) and work schedules. After a few weeks, I got a call from one of the black belts to check whether I was doing ok.Great diverse cross-section of NY-ers, both in the adults and kids. There are many whole families that train here, which speaks to the open and friendly environment. The master (aka Sabumnim) is a true martial arts master, in that he has an enormous knowledge of hapkido, a desire to pass on that knowledge and a big heart. For me, it is telling how he is always able/eager to adapt techniques for me (having limited use of one arm) so that I can learn what works for me. Safety comes first, and everyone, especially instructors are mindful of potential injuries or physical limitations. I always feel great, refreshed and grateful after training here.Techniques are taught in a thoughtful manner, with appropriate variation and details for each skill level. The hapkido belt system ensures continuous learning, and mastery of techniques. The warmups are fun, with a balance of building strength, endurance, and flexibility.There is very little that I would change, maybe slightly nicer changing rooms? All in all, I hope to train here and be a part of this great dojang for many years to come.
WMAC is a New York City jewel! This school is a place to study serious martial arts in a rigerous, supportive, respectful and nurturing community. The skill and dedication of both the schools founder, Sabumnim David Herbert, and all of the incredible instructors who teach here is really amazing. As a student at WMAC for over 15 years, I was privileged to train with students of every age, physical ability and walk of life imaginable; visiting masters from around the world, children from around the block, cops, teachers, soldiers, nurses, artists, bankers ... you name it. Anyone who walks through the door is treated with respect and encouragement, and I have witnessed literally thousands of people learn to transform their own lives with the skills they learned here. If you watch the schools videos, those are all 100% real students and teachers taking real, actual classes and tests, and they give a pretty accurate impression of what the school is all about. If you are interested or curious, go to the school and watch, or better yet, take a trial class. Very highly recommended!
I have had the incredible fortune of training at WMAC under Sabumnim David Herbert for nearly 20 years. I began as a young girl with low self-esteem and a soft voice. Very quickly, with the support of WMACs exceptional instructors, I found my inner strength, developed confidence, and cultivated discipline that helped me achieve a 3rd degree black belt in HapKiDo. Sabumnim has created an unparalleled community and curriculum that supports people with diverse backgrounds, body types, and needs as they build their physical and mental strength. HapKiDo is one of the most multi-faceted martial arts, which makes training especially interesting and challenging. You will learn to defend yourself through hand and weapons techniques, kicking and punching, and grappling and falling. At the same time, you will learn to develop focus, awareness, and leadership through meditation, forms, and teaching. WMAC helps people realize their potential both in and out of the dojang. I often find that the skills I have learned as a student and instructor of HapKiDo help me to succeed in my professional and personal life. I urge anyone--at any age, with any body--to come to WMAC. You will be amazed by the many gifts it will bring to your life.
I cant begin to say enough about WMAC, its student body, teachers and most of all Grandmaster David Herbert. Sabumnim is and has been the back bone of this institution for decades. His commitment to his students and in particular to the children is truly amazing. One would think that writing such a glowing review chock full of praise would make me a shill but I am not even a student of this great academy. I am the father and husband to students and I can attest to the remarkably positive influence the school has had on all of my children and my wife. Many schools give lip service to what they teach the kids: respect, perseverance, confidence, health, self defense and such. These are all true at WMAC, however, if I had to emphasize one trait mostly imparted on the kids its CHARACTER. I have had the benefit of seeing children start as 4 year olds who are now in Grad Schools having excelled throughout all stages of their lives and the constant after commitment from their families has been the committment from Sabumnim, the teachers and the Academy itself. Whether its taking out the translator, homework in the Sabu Clubhouse, even cooking them the healthiest meals possible; yes even this. As a student myself at other schools I can say, this does not exist at many other places. This school is truly unique. Now I know I am focusing on kids but the same holds true if youre 30, 50 or 80. The school fits all ages. If you want to fight in the UFC go somewhere else. If you want to stand a chance against an assailant walking yourself home at midnight then go to WMAC. If you want to grow physically, mentally and spiritually all the while forging friendships that will last a lifetime, then go to WMAC.
Training at WMAC can elevate your life to a whole other level. Not only does your physical strength improve but your mind and soul are nourished through the wisdom and support of our instructors and fellow members of the Dojang. One of the best decisions Ive ever made!
I would have to write for hours to give the World Martial Arts Center its proper due. This is a school for people of all physical abilities and talent levels. Some of the school’s best and most gifted instructors and practitioners arent the most naturally athletic or gifted. That is why Hapkido works! If done right a 100 pound person can defend themself from a dangerous/threatening situation against a much larger/stronger opponent. More power doesnt mean greater force, it means greater Focus.
My granddaughter has been attending the childrens program for the past five months and Ive attended each session with her. The program and teachers have been phenomenal in bringing out her inner warrior. The confidence and poise she now exhibits is directly related to this school.
World Martial Arts Center is a Great place to hone Your Skills in Hapkido as well as mastering yourself and how you treate others. A mydrid of of oportunities await those willing to take the steps to learn. Families thrive in this clean outstanding place of education . Ive been a witness to it success for decades.
Ok Ive been going to the world martial arts studio for about 9-10 years now, and this place is just amazing! Its like a second home to me. You just dont learn how to be strong and powerful you learn how to be a better person in every way. Im 15 now and Ive learned so much more and Im still learning and growing.
Total reviews rating 4.8
50 Reviews for World Martial Arts Center Happy Kicks 2023:
Review №1
2021-06-21Five stars for Grandmaster Herbert and his martial arts school! I have been taking classes via Zoom with Grandmaster Herbert and I have concluded he is an outstanding instructor who generously shares his knowledge, skills, and wisdom. He gives clear and understandable instructions, models the moves, guides our practice, gives each student clear and effective feedback, and makes adjustments as necessary. I have gained confidence, strength, skills and motivation to participate in this workout and to practice the moves between classes. It is a pleasure to learn from such a caring individual!
Review №2
2021-06-20Grandmaster Herbert is a great instructor and very patient. He’s been teaching us self defense on Zoom and it’s quite a work out. His explanations are easy to understand and he provides feedback on your practice to help you perfect your technique and skill level.The classes are informative and has given me more confidence. He emphasizes that practice is crucial to your success. People who live in NY are fortunate to have him and their instructors teach self defense.
Review №3
2021-06-20My 72 year old mother and I have been taking self defense workshops they are offering on Zoom. We live on the West Coast. She really wanted to feel more confident outside because of all this Anti-Asian violence. My mother has been going every week and really feels that she is learning a lot and I am seeing her attitude shift. The teacher is so great about giving very specific notes to adjust, even though we arent in the same physical room together. I have taken a lot of online de-escalation and bystander training, and there is a lot of very valuable information here that people of all ages can use to defend themselves. We arent going to be the next Bruce Lee, but we feel less like sitting ducks! Its also a very supportive class environment. We have recommended them to our friends.
Review №4
2021-06-20Ive been studying self defense training via Zoom in the wake of hate-crimes abound. The spirit and energy of Master Herbert shines through my screen and I almost feel like I am the studio. Master Herbert is a caring, excellent teacher, with a big heart and a decent sense of humor too :)! Thank you for the knowledge and the support that I received from the Bamboo Tiger Training Program!
Review №5
2016-05-30Ive studied Martial Arts and many styles since I was 6 yrs old. World Martial Arts Center is by far the most complete school I have trained at. Master Herbert and his entire team are incredible to new students, lovers of the arts, and the children program is unbelievable! My daughter, wife, and I all have been training her for 5 yrs now as this feels like our family as much as it is our Dojang to train and study. As small business owners in Brooklyn, we look forward to hosting our first team building activity here with all of our employees. Thank you Master David Herbert and World Martial Arts Center.Respectfully,The King Family
Review №6
2021-06-26Ive been taking self defense classes through Zoom with Grandmaster Herbert over the last month in response to the rise in AAPI hate incidents. At first, I was skeptical of how much I could actually learn virtually. To my surprise, I have learned a lot as the instructions are very clear and practical. He demonstrates the movements very clearly and patiently explains why a particular strategy is employed. It is all super clear and he makes the class engaging, challenging and fun. Highly recommended for virtual or in person learning!
Review №7
2016-06-02The World Martial Arts Center is one of the greatest reasons to stay in NYC!I am lucky to have started training in this wonderful school almost 2 decades ago and am continuously amazed at the depth of understanding of Martial Arts, as well as an ability to organize the curriculum and teach, SaBumNim Herbert and his Masters have.The training is always fun, challenging and enlightening, physically, mentally and spiritually. The atmosphere is welcoming to all.When spending time away from NYC, I have always tried to find a school that compares, and have never gotten close; even taking classes at 3-4 different schools, I have not been able to duplicate the wealth of knowledge and skill passed on at the World Martial Arts Center.
Review №8
2016-06-07I have personally know and trained with Master David Herbert for the past 20 years. He is one of the most experienced, proficient, passionate martial arts instructors I have ever met. He love teaching martial arts and sharing it. If you are looking for a school whether it be for children or adults that will instill confidence and a peaceful mind look no further. I highly recommend World Martial Arts Centers.
Review №9
2016-05-31Ive been training at the WMAC for a couple of years now and I really enjoy it. The instructors are fabulous and always there to help you improve your martial arts and get you to the next level.They offer multiple classes every day which makes it easy for me to be able to attend class.Its a great school, I highly recommend it!
Review №10
2021-06-21Im so thankful to Grandmaster Herbert and his team for providing me with the physical and mental skills to defend myself, particularly during this recent rise in AAPI incidents in NYC. The strategies, strikes and blocks Ive learnt over Zoom have given me (and my worried partner) the confidence to resume my life (I avoided unnecessary trips at one point before this class). I highly recommend that everyone take a class from Grandmaster Herbert! You wont regret it!