United Kempo & Gung-Fu Academies
-OUR MISSION-
True strength comes from within. It is not dictated by circumstance, but rather by the choices we make and the mindset we decide to nurture. True strength is found by transforming our mindset from a failure mindset to a champion's mindset. Most of us have an incredible strength inside, but to unlock it we need a community willing to believe in us so we will be inspired to believe in ourselves. This transformation can be very difficult and most of us need help in making this change. We accomplish this by honoring the value of martial arts traditions while having the courage to embrace new challenges, new ways of thinking, and even new versions of ourselves.
True Strength Martial Arts is dedicated to helping all of our students reach their full potential by honoring tradition and embracing the new so that they may find their True Strength.
Martial Arts Programs We Offer:
The Little Ninjas Program works to meet the developmental needs of younger children in a way that is safe and fun! Younger children can find it difficult to control their bodies and behavior, get along with other kids, and to focus so that they can learn new things. Little Ninjas is a fun way to build the life skills children need to be successful!
​Our Youth Martial Arts Program focuses on developing young people not just physically, but emotionally and mentally as well. The life lessons learned during training can be life changing! We make sure classes are as fun as they are beneficial to your child.
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Growing up can be hard for teenagers. It can be even harder on parents trying to guide them along the way. Our Teen Martial Arts program is designed with character building and mentoring built into the lessons to give them the keys to having successful lives!
Martial arts for adults can be an empowering experience! Not only will it improve fitness, but also help with stress management, confidence, and social interaction. Make workouts fun while learning self-defense skills and strategies!
​You don't have to be a black belt to have good self-defense! No prior experience needed! Learn the basic skills that will boost your confidence and empower you to live life your way!
SELF-DEFENSE
Traditional Japanese sword discipline combining both the arts of Iaijutsu (sword drawing) with Kenjutsu (swordsmanship). Taught after completing yellow belt certification in Kempo & Gung-Fu program.
ABOUT TRUE STRENGTH MARTIAL ARTS
The mission of True Strength Martial Arts is to help all students discover their full potential by honoring martial arts traditions and values, while utilizing modern training methods. We help students embrace new ways of thinking to help them transform into the best version of themselves.
True Strength Martial Arts is proud to be a representative of the United Kempo & Gung-Fu Academies founded by Grandmaster Monty L. Atchley. The martial arts systems of the United Kempo & Gung-Fu Academies are rooted in traditional arts, but is practiced with modern concepts and training methods. This combination has created an extremely well-rounded martial arts system well suited for the needs of modern students. The systems cover weapons; ground fighting, grappling, joint-locks, control tactics, striking, throwing, and even conflict de-escalation.
True Strength Martial Arts has a lot to offer both beginners and martial arts veterans alike. The systems are adaptable to meet the needs of modern martial artists by staying open-minded while incorporating any new techniques or tactics needed to stay relevant in an ever-changing world.
Martial Arts Systems
Shinjutsu Kempo Karate - A traditional Okinawan Karate mixed with joint locks, throws, and chokes. Similar to Japanese Jiu Jitsu.
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Kuai Shou Pai Gung Fu - A modern approach to Chinese martial arts utilizing trapping hand skills to nullify and control a stronger opponent. Focuses on using "softness" to overcome force and economy of motion.
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Shinjutsu Kempo Kenjutsu - Traditional Japanese sword discipline combining both the arts of Iaijutsu (sword drawing) with Kenjutsu (swordsmanship).
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Jeet Kune Do Principles - U.K.G.A.'s principles of JKD originally envisioned by the late Bruce Lee. Combines Kempo and Gung Fu techniques flowing together using JKD as the vehicle.
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Kobujitsu - Okinawan Weapons arts. Weapons included are: Yawara, Jo, Nunchaku, Sai, Bo, Tonfa, Kamas, and Tanto.
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Women's Self-Defense - One of the most complete Women's Self-Defense programs in the River Valley! No prior experience needed! Learn the basic skills that will boost your confidence and empower you to live life your way! We offer self-defense seminars to help keep good people safe. Maximum results for minimal training time. Perfect for men, women, teenagers, and college students.
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True Strength Martial Arts is a family oriented martial arts school focusing not only on the functionality of martial arts, but also developing the character of its practitioners. The goal is to make the practitioner the best martial artist he/she can be, so training methods are altered depending on training goals, body type, and interests.
MEET OUR STAFF
Master Dan Smith began training with U.K.G.A. founder, Grandmaster Dr. Monty Atchley in 2001. He has been training for over 20 years and has earned several black belts in various martial arts disciplines. His passion to serve others and enrich their lives inspired him to create True Strength Martial Arts so that he could help others find their own potential and success in life.
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Master Dan Smith
Owner and Chief Instructor
5th Degree Black Belt/Black Sash
Sensei Charles Lowery has been training in martial arts since he was 8 years old. He began his training with U.K.G.A. years after he had earned a 2nd Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo. He has also earned a 1st Degree Black Belt in Kempo and his Black Sash in Gung-Fu. He is a very gifted and talented instructor who inspires his students with his work ethic and abilities.
Instructor
Sensei Charles Lowery
1st Degree Black Belt/Black Sash
Mr. Joshua Hogan comes from a working wrestling background. He has been training with us for many years and has proven himself a dedicated student and assistant instructor. He has become a successful sport karate competitor and karate champion. His work ethic and perseverance serves as an inspirational example for everyone.
Joshua Hogan
Assistant Instructor
Brown Belt/Brown Sash
Mr. Lowe has been training in martial arts off and on since he was 9 years old. He holds a 1st degree black belt in Taekwondo and has several years of experience in other arts such as Krav Maga and Iaido. He is especially interested in the philosophies of the martial arts and how it can be used to enhance one's everyday life. He is very compassionate and loves to help others find themselves through their martial arts journey.
Loren Lowe
Assistant Instructor
Brown Belt/Brown Sash
Judy Stetson began martial arts while embarking on a journey of self-discovery. With training, she has transformed herself from a physique athlete and into a warrior. She is compassionate about inspiring other ladies to follow through on their own martial arts journey. She uses her own personal experiences to motivate students and to help them find their own hidden strengths.
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Judy Stetson
Assistant Instructor
Purple Belt/Blue Sash
Mark Galvan, though quiet in nature, has the heart and compassion of a champion. His love of martial arts tradition and the art of Karate led him to our school. He works very hard to discipline his mind, body, and emotions every day. He leads by example with his work ethic and courage taking on new challenges in order to develop himself and to help others on their own martial arts journey.
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Mark Galvan
Assistant Instructor
Purple Belt/Blue Sash
CONTACT US
(479) 648-9400 | www.facebook.com/truestrengthmartialarts
Email: fortsmithukga@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/truestrengthmartialarts
5111 Rogers Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72903
Located inside River Valley Fitness at Central Mall
Entrance Located Below:
