Of course! We wouldn't expect you to sign up for something without having first tried it. You can arrange a free class by filling out our contact form.

These are active classes so we recommend wearing comfortable clothes - t-shirts, sweat pants, etc. Plus, bring a water bottle to stay hydrated!

Tang Soo Do was originally named Moo Duk Kwon when it was created by Hwang Kee in 1945 in Korea. Although the name has changed a few times in the last 70 years, the style has remained constant. Many people compare it to Tae Kwon Do, which is also Korean, however, its closest neighbor is Shotokan Karate - we even share many forms with the Japanese style. Other influences were Okinawan Karate, Tai Chi Chuan, Shaolin long fist forms, Subak (Korea), and Taekkyon (Korea).

Like most martial artists, Hwang Kee was influenced by other styles. That tradition is carried on today. Our instructors have studied jujitsu, judo, hapkido, boxing, and muay Thai kickboxing. Each of these styles brings new perspective to our understanding of Tang Soo Do.

History matters, especially in traditional martial arts. And Chuck Baehr is our history. Master Baehr started studying Tang Soo Do in 1974 and went on to teach Master Gill Hernandez and Master Tom McGregory. Master Gill subsequently taught Master Ted and John, and Master Tom taught Master Mikey. All of our instructors were influenced by Master Chuck - you can even see bear paws tattooed on some of our instructors to signify this influence. Our name was chosen to honor him.

In addition, John and his wife, Kate, are the founders of Kodiak Martial Arts, and John is known as Big Bear by his children. Big Bear Martial Arts sounded silly so they settled on Kodiak Martial Arts.