Martial Arts & Self Defense Classes
Upper East Side, NYC
Train on the Upper East Side with classes for traditional karate, practical self-defense, fitness, balance, and confidence. Whether you want authentic martial arts training, a powerful workout, mindful movement, or real-world safety skills, Active Studios NYC offers a class that fits. First class free for new students.
At Active Studios NYC, martial arts and self-defense are not one thing. Some students want traditional Okinawan karate. Some want a high-energy kickboxing workout. Some want practical personal protection. Some want balance, calm, and body awareness. This page makes that choice easier by putting all six classes in one place so visitors can compare options, book a class, or click through for more detail.
Not sure which class fits you best? Compare all six below and either book now or click learn more for details.
Martial Arts & Self Defense Classes
Tai Chi
Tai Chi for Balance, Calm, and Body Awareness. Gentle, low-impact movement for balance, flexibility, coordination, and inner calm. Ideal for adults who want mindful movement and healthy aging support. Multiple classes per week for maximum results.
Best for: balance, stress reduction, flexibility, mindful movement
Isshin-ryu Karate
Isshin-ryu Karate for Strength, Focus, and Real-World Self-Defense. A complete approach to health, self-defense, and lifelong well-being with emphasis on strength, focus, confidence, and practical personal development.
Best for: traditional karate, self-discipline, confidence, adults seeking a well-rounded martial art
Goju-ryu Karate
Traditional Goju-ryu Karate with Authentic Okinawan Lineage. Traditional training on the Upper East Side, with an emphasis on a unique karate warm-up, karate kata, partner drills, breath control, self-defense, and meditation.
Best for: serious traditional training, kata study, authentic lineage, and adult martial artists.
Cardio Kickboxing
Cardio Kickboxing for Power, Endurance, and Fitness. A high-energy class that combines striking movement with conditioning and endurance training. Work with striking pads, heavy bags, and agility equipment
Best for: high-energy workouts, conditioning, endurance, body toning
Women’s Self Defense
Women’s Self Defense for Practical Safety and Confidence. Real-world awareness, prevention, and response skills in a supportive setting for women of all backgrounds and fitness levels.
Best for: practical self-protection, confidence, awareness, real-world safety skills
Corporate Self Defense
Corporate Self Defense for Teams and Workplace Safety. Practical safety, awareness, and response training for organizations, staff, and executive teams in New York City.
Best for: workplace training, executive groups, staff development, professional safety workshops
Which Class Is Right for You?
Choose Tai Chi for balance, calm, and mindful movement.
Choose Isshin-ryu Karate for a practical and holistic karate practice.
Choose Goju-ryu Karate for serious traditional Okinawan training.
Choose Cardio Kickboxing for a high-energy workout.
Choose Women’s Self Defense for practical personal safety skills.
Choose Corporate Self Defense for group or workplace training.
Train on the Upper East Side at Active Studios NYC
First class free. Class packs available. Located at 1521 York Ave., New York, NY 10028. Call 917-388-2729 or choose a class above to get started.