Get to Know Us

About Martial Arts America

Galveston Island's top-rated martial arts school, building confidence, discipline, and community for students of all ages.

What We Stand For

Our Core Values

Everything we do is guided by a set of values that shape our instruction, our community, and the experience of every student who walks through our doors.

Discipline & Focus

We teach structure and consistency that build strong habits on the mat and in everyday life. Discipline isn't punishment; it's the foundation for achievement.

Respect & Integrity

Mutual respect between students, instructors, and our community is non-negotiable. We lead by example and hold ourselves to the highest standards of integrity.

Confidence Through Growth

We celebrate progress at every level, not just trophies and belt promotions. Every small victory builds the self-belief that carries into school, work, and life.

Welcoming

Our doors are open to all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels. Whether you're 5 or 55, a complete beginner or an experienced practitioner, you belong here.

Safety First

A clean facility, trained staff, and age-appropriate instruction aren't optional. They're our baseline. Parents trust us with their children, and we take that responsibility seriously.

Community

We're more than a gym. We're a second family. Our students support each other, celebrate each other's wins, and build friendships that last well beyond the mat.

Why Families Choose Us

What Sets Us Apart

Our certified instructors bring years of experience and follow a proven curriculum designed to build skills at every level. With a clean, welcoming facility and a supportive team, families feel at home from day one.

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Training at Martial Arts America

Our Promise

A Commitment to Every Student

We promise to provide a safe, supportive, and challenging environment where every student can grow in skill, character, and confidence. From your very first class to your highest achievement, we'll be in your corner every step of the way.

Meet the Team

The People Behind Martial Arts America

Our instructors are the heart and soul of our academy. Every member of our team is dedicated to helping you reach your full potential.

Regena Thompson

Regena Thompson

Head Instructor

Master Regena Thompson is the Head Instructor at Martial Arts America and a 7th-degree black belt in Jhoon Rhee Tae Kwon Do. A student of Grandmaster Ishmael Robles, she is a 33-time world champion who now passes that experience on to kids and adults on Galveston Island.

What Our Community Says

Real Reviews From Real Students

Don't just take our word for it. Hear from the students and families who train with us every day.

★★★★★

"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Fierce, friendly, and phenomenal! I cannot say enough good things about our experience here. From the second you walk in, Ms. Cathy at the front desk sets the perfect tone—she is so sweet, attentive, and helpful! Master Regina Thomas is the real deal: the perfect blend of..."

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★★★★★

"Our son has been taking classes from Martial Arts America for over six years. He has grown in confidence and strength. Master Robles and his staff have been amazing. Our son has learned so much from them! Now with Ms. Thompson, he is learning even more. His sparring techniques..."

Elaine Vaughan Elaine Vaughan
★★★★★

"Ragena is an amazing instructor! No cap. Kathy is why i came in the place. Very professional on the phone and answered all my questions prior to the intro. class. My 6-year-old has transformed in martial arts and in disciplin within two weeks being here. I enjoy the adult..."

Phillips Phillips
★★★★★

"We love Martial Arts America! They have done wonderful things for my son. He has more confidence. He’s active now and is better in social gatherings. I could go on and on. We feel like part of their family. They’re great!"

Nicole Gulis Nicole Gulis
★★★★★

"I love this place. It has teached me so much about martial arts and I've gotten better at karate and I've gotten more fit. One more detail is that it's like a family to me. A community were every one knows every one and I like that. Thank you martial arts for making my life..."

Mauricio Orellana Mauricio Orellana
★★★★★

"America Martial Arts has very professional training teams and training program!!!"

Lyudmyla Marushchak Lyudmyla Marushchak
★★★★★

"Ms. Regina and Kathy made us feel so welcome. The trial class was a perfect intro and entrance exposure. The values, lessons and skills emphasized in this class are a perfect fit for what our family was searching for! Its great to be part team. Can't wait to watch my little..."

Cray23 Cray23
★★★★★

"It is great! The staff are professionals! In addition to punching or kicking, my daughter is taught discipline, respect. I am fully satisfied and my kid is challenged to improve and supported. I recommend this martial art school to everybody. I feel really lucky to find it"

Olha Chyzmar Olha Chyzmar
★★★★★

"Our family loves Martial Arts America! Our kids are incredibly happy and excited about their classes. Master Robles is very dedicated to his students, along with Mr. Alexander and Ms. Alexander. Cathy, the receptionist, is always sweet, welcoming, and caring. We couldn’t be..."

Vanessa Orellana Vanessa Orellana
★★★★★

"Everyone at the studio is very professional and helpful. They make the sessions fun and informative. The first time my daughter attended a class she loved it and has wanted to go twice a week since. She has been able to achieve green belt status in a short period of time. I..."

georgia1405 georgia1405
★★★★★

"We love it here! My son and myself 😊 🫡"

Alexa Heichelheim Alexa Heichelheim
★★★★★

"Great place to go for martial arts. The instructors are fantastic and are wonderful with working with all ages. My grandson really learned a lot and enjoyed the classes."

Pamela Moffatt Pamela Moffatt
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Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions About Martial Arts America

Have questions about getting started? We have answers. Browse the most common questions below, or contact us directly for anything else.

Absolutely not. Our programs are designed for all skill levels, from complete beginners to experienced martial artists. Our instructors will meet you where you are and help you progress at your own pace.

We offer programs for all ages, including juniors, kids, teens, and adults. Each program is specifically tailored to the age group's physical and developmental needs.

Comfortable athletic clothing such as a t-shirt and sweatpants or shorts is all you need. No shoes are required on the mats. We'll provide everything else you need for your first session.

We recommend attending at least two classes per week for steady progress. Consistency makes a big difference, and many of our most dedicated students train three or more times a week.

Safety is our top priority. Our certified instructors maintain a structured, supervised environment with age-appropriate techniques. We focus on controlled practice in a clean, well-maintained facility to minimize any risk of injury.

Your free trial includes a full class experience. You'll train alongside our students, meet our instructors, and get a feel for our academy. There's no obligation and no pressure. Just come ready to learn and have fun.