School of Martial Arts

Zen Martial Arts (ZMA) is a philosophy which uses the path of martial arts to strengthen the mind, body, and spirit. We teach the most practical and efficient self defense techniques covering all ranges: punching, kicking, throwing, choking, locks, submissions, and grappling, all practiced in a safe, clean environment. Zen Martial Arts (ZMA) is a philosophy which uses the path of martial arts to strengthen the mind, body, and spirit. We teach the most practical and efficient self defense techniques covering all ranges: punching, kicking, throwing, choking, locks, submissions, and grappling, all practiced in a safe, clean environment. Our workouts are all technique based, so that the student develops skills through repetition which develops muscle memory. In every class, we focus on four categories of fitness: cardiovascular, flexibility, strength training, as well as meditation. We believe that the mind and body need to be healthy and strong. One of the keys to our program is the balance between traditional techniques that have been handed down for thousands of years and modern training methods that are safe and effective. Each class is overseen by instructors who are masters of disguising repetition, guaranteeing that every class will be challenging and fun. In the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu program students will learn and implement the concept that using leverage and proper technique a smaller, weaker person can throw, sweep, lock, and choke a bigger and stronger person. Classes will focus on learning the art as well as practical self-defense, and are intense and rewarding without the pressure of competition.  We emphasize working together as partners, not opponents. This is more than semantics—it is a core principal of our culture. Working with someone helps both get better. Working against someone is dangerous and promotes the idea that 'only the tough survive.' Our workouts are all technique based, so that the student develops skills through repetition which develops muscle memory. In every class, we focus on four categories of fitness: cardiovascular, flexibility, strength training, as well as meditation. We believe that the mind and body need to be healthy and strong. One of the keys to our program is the balance between traditional techniques that have been handed down for thousands of years and modern training methods that are safe and effective. Each class is overseen by instructors who are masters of disguising repetition, guaranteeing that every class will be challenging and fun. The techniques we practice are similar to every other martial art school: punches are punches, kicks are kicks, throws are throws, grappling is grappling. But WHAT we practice is the uniqueness of ZMA. We measure success in our students not only by rank, but how their lives improve. By increasing concentration, reducing stress, and raising confidence, we help students become masters over their actions, rather than prisoners of their reactions. In ancient cultures, students studying martial arts disciplines did not practice to obtain a rank or belt. They practiced to develop themselves, physically, mentally and spiritually. A physical workout and self defense skills combined with an emphasis on meditation and introspection is the real essence of true martial arts.

Nick Petty
5 Star
Sifu brown as a teacher focuses on personal growth and development, not belts. He has used his 40+ years of practice to create an environment that he'd enjoy practicing in. He develops people to be better than themselves and uses tests to break through the will. Growth is often painful... As a person, neurodivergent and complicated, i rarely got the feeling that sifu liked me, more so it felt like he used me as an opportunity to see his own rough edges, a stone making ripples in the water of his pond... That being said, he never kept teaching or participation from me. He let me have the complete experience, and tried throughout to push me to be a better person. My time with sifu was hard... i often let myself down... I literally gave it my 100%... He gave me the opportunity to study with some of the best in the world. Doing dynamic and progressively more intense practice with great partners who celibrate successes. Ultimately i walked in feeling like a victim and i got to learn to be a warrior, a meditation samurai, who was blessed to find a teacher who, although not personally enlightened yet, nor did he ever claim to be... still devotes all of his energy encouraging the path of peace and mindfulness, in all of those around him.
Saturday 3rd February 2024

Jake Dudek
5 Star
I started Brazilian jiu-jitsu in November 2019. I had never participated in any martial arts discipline before, and was joining with the intentions of trying something new, making new friends, and developing my physical and spiritual health. Since my first class, I have looked forward to every session with Sifu Brown and enjoy his teaching, camaraderie, and creativity. I have learned so much since beginning, and the school's ability to continue teaching and practicing martial arts during the COVID-19 pandemic is a testament to the community that this dojo has created and fostered. Starting BJJ has been one of the best decisions I have ever made, and I have enjoyed living a healthy lifestyle since stepping foot into this dojo. I cannot recommend School of Martial Arts enough!
Monday 3rd October 2022

John Price
5 Star
Both of our children have attended Zen Martial Arts since they were six years old. For the past eight years, our kids have been taught not just martial arts, but also discipline, respect and commitment. Tough but fair, Sifu Brown has a clear passion for teaching. He clearly cares for his students yet has high expectations for their performance both in and outside of the dojo. He often articulates life lessons and draws parallels between what is taught in class and what students might experience in their everyday lives. We are extremely pleased to have found Zen Martial Arts and highly recommend their entire team to anyone looking to grow and be challenged.
Tuesday 28th January 2020

TWMax65
5 Star
Sifu Brown is a one of a kind teacher, with experience and knowledge that spans decades and across the world in several styles of martial arts. He has a passion for teaching and sharing the art to those who are ready to commit and try hard. I have been a student there for almost 10 years and the culture is unlike any other. It has become my favorite place on Earth and my second family. Each and every student is there to foster growth in others and to sharpen each other's minds with challenging, fun-filled classes. It is a place where I can go to look at myself and expect a valuable lesson to be taught every single time. If you want authentic martial arts taught to you that will transform you in every way and make you the best that you can be, this is the place to go!
Wednesday 15th January 2020

stephanie kohnen
5 Star
My husband and I have been students at the School of Martial Arts since 2005. It has been an amazing journey! Sifu Brown is an incredible teacher whose enthusiasm and over 35 years of experience makes for a great class every time. The people that attend the school are great partners no matter what size you are or what shape you are in athletically. We take classes with all adults but they have kids classes as well. Beyond learning to defend myself in rigorous classes that not only engage me physically but mentally, I have learned the benefits of meditation and have seen a positive change in myself and my life overall. Going to the gym sucks! If you are looking to get a great workout, feel inspired, learn to defend yourself and improve the quality of aspect of your life - I highly recommend it!
Saturday 29th April 2017