Summary
Quick take on Laird’s Academy of Martial Arts
Laird’s Academy of Martial Arts at 175 Walnut Ave in Santa Cruz brings together Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu-friendly jujitsu training with a broad martial arts curriculum that serves be...
Academy profile
Laird’s Academy of Martial Arts
Santa Cruz, California
Google: 5.0 (7 reviews)Yelp: 4.8 (10 reviews)
Overview
About Laird’s Academy of Martial Arts
Laird’s Academy of Martial Arts at 175 Walnut Ave in Santa Cruz brings together Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu-friendly jujitsu training with a broad martial arts curriculum that serves beginners, hobbyists, and longtime practitioners alike. The academy operates as a martial arts school, self defense school, and martial arts supply store, giving students a place to train, learn, and equip themselves in one location. Its website, https://www.lairdsacademy.com/, introduces a program lineup that stretches well beyond a single style, including Korean Martial Arts (Ho Kuk Mu Sul), Taekwondo, Judo, Kung Fu, Hapkido, Tai Chi, and practical self-defense. That variety creates a training environment where students can build skill from multiple angles, whether they are looking for grappling, striking, movement, or a deeper understanding of self-protection.
What stands out most is the academy’s practical approach to martial arts. Classes are offered for all ages and all levels, making it easy for families, first-timers, and experienced students to train under one roof. The self-defense focus is especially broad, covering standing defense, ground work, weapons awareness, multiple attackers, and pressure point attacks. For students interested in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and related grappling arts, that emphasis on control, balance, and real-world application can add valuable context to every session. Judo’s throwing and falling skills further support that foundation, while Hapkido’s joint locks and Taekwondo’s kicking and punching help round out a more complete martial arts experience.
Laird’s Academy also appeals to students who appreciate a structured, traditional atmosphere without being limited to one path of study. The inclusion of Tai Chi and Ki training adds a movement and body-awareness element that complements the more combative programs, while Kung Fu brings flowing circular attacks into the mix. That blend can be especially useful for practitioners who want to sharpen adaptability, timing, and coordination. In a local community like Santa Cruz, where many martial artists seek both effective training and a welcoming place to grow, this academy offers a distinctive balance of discipline, versatility, and practical instruction.
For visitors and regular students alike, the presence of a martial arts supply store adds a practical advantage. Whether someone is preparing for their first class or expanding an established training routine, the academy makes it easier to stay equipped and ready. For those exploring martial arts in Santa Cruz, Laird’s Academy of Martial Arts offers a multi-disciplinary training environment with room to develop across standing, throwing, striking, and self-defense disciplines, all from a single address on Walnut Avenue.
Philosophy
Training Philosophy
What stands out most is the academy’s practical approach to martial arts.
Jujitsu schoolKorean Martial Arts (Ho Kuk Mu Sul)Taekwondo (kicking/punching)All-ages classesMartial arts supply storeJudo (throwing/falling)
Class Hours
- Friday: 3:15–7 PM
- Monday: 3:15 AM–7 PM
- Saturday: 10:30–11:30 AM
- Sunday: Closed
- Thursday: 3:15 AM–7 PM
- Tuesday: 3:15 AM–7 PM
- Wednesday: 3:15–7 PM
Programs & Highlights
Programs & Classes
- Jujitsu school
- Korean Martial Arts (Ho Kuk Mu Sul)
- Taekwondo (kicking/punching)
- All-ages classes
- Martial arts supply store
- Judo (throwing/falling)
- Kung Fu (flowing circular attacks)
- Practical self-defense (standing, ground, weapons, multiple attackers)
- All-levels classes
- Pressure point attacks
- Hapkido (joint locks)
- Martial arts school
- Self defense school
- Tai Chi (Ki training)
Membership Options
- monthly agreements
- yearly agreements
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of classes and programs does Laird’s Academy of Martial Arts offer?
Laird’s Academy of Martial Arts offers a broad mix of martial arts and self-defense programs that serve different interests and training goals. The academy includes jujitsu school instruction, Korean Martial Arts (Ho Kuk Mu Sul), Taekwondo focused on kicking and punching, Judo centered on throwing and falling, Kung Fu with flowing circular attacks, Hapkido with joint locks, Tai Chi for Ki training, pressure point attacks, and practical self-defense that covers standing, ground, weapons, and multiple attackers. It also runs all-ages classes and all-levels classes, which makes the school approachable for families, beginners, and more experienced students who want ongoing development. For people who like to train in a place that blends striking, grappling, and self-protection, the academy offers a versatile environment that supports both technical study and practical application. Students can review current class options and training details directly through the academy website before planning a visit.
Is Laird’s Academy beginner-friendly, or do you need martial arts experience first?
Laird’s Academy of Martial Arts is well suited to beginners as well as more advanced students. Its all-levels classes create room for people who are new to martial arts, while the all-ages format suggests an environment that welcomes a wide range of students. Because the academy teaches multiple systems, including jujitsu, Taekwondo, Judo, Kung Fu, Hapkido, Tai Chi, and practical self-defense, new students can explore different styles and find a path that fits their comfort level and goals. Beginners who want a practical introduction to movement, balance, and self-defense can start with confidence, and experienced practitioners can continue sharpening technique across several disciplines. If you are planning your first visit, it is a good idea to contact the academy through its website so you can confirm which class is the best starting point and what to expect on arrival.
What are the class hours and schedule at Laird’s Academy of Martial Arts?
The academy’s exact class hours and weekly schedule can be confirmed directly through its website or by contacting the school before you go. That is the best next step if you want the most current training times, since schedules can shift based on class type, age group, or seasonal programming. What is clear is that the academy offers all-ages classes and all-levels classes, which typically gives students multiple ways to fit training into a regular routine. With a broad curriculum that includes jujitsu, Korean Martial Arts, Taekwondo, Judo, Kung Fu, Hapkido, Tai Chi, pressure point attacks, and practical self-defense, the academy is built for people who want a flexible martial arts home rather than a single-specialty studio. Checking the website before visiting helps you choose the best class for your goals and arrive prepared.
How much does training cost, and is there a trial class option?
Membership pricing and any trial class options are best confirmed directly with the academy, since those details can change and should be reviewed before you sign up. The most practical next step is to visit https://www.lairdsacademy.com/ and ask whether there is an introductory visit, trial class, or beginner-friendly starting option for new students. Because Laird’s Academy offers all-levels classes, all-ages classes, and a wide range of martial arts programs, it is well positioned to help prospective students find the right entry point before committing to ongoing training. If you are comparing martial arts schools in Santa Cruz, asking about current enrollment options, class access, and any introductory policies will help you evaluate the academy in a clear and informed way.
How do I book a visit or learn more about the academy before joining?
The easiest way to book a visit or learn more is through the academy’s website at https://www.lairdsacademy.com/. From there, you can review the school’s training focus and reach out to confirm current class options, schedules, and any introductory steps for new students. Since Laird’s Academy offers a wide mix of programs, including jujitsu school instruction, practical self-defense, Taekwondo, Judo, Kung Fu, Hapkido, Tai Chi, and Korean Martial Arts, contacting the academy first helps you match your goals with the right class. A quick call or website inquiry is also useful if you want to ask about all-ages classes, beginner placement, or whether the martial arts supply store can help you prepare for your first session. That approach gives you a smoother first visit and helps you choose the class that best fits your experience level and training interests.
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