Martial Arts Classes in Oak Park & River Forest, IL
We are the Original Home for True Martial Arts in Oak Park, IL, building a legacy of martial arts and self-defense excellence since 1994 (30+ years!). Led by Sr. GrandMaster Yu, a 9th-Dan, licensed 1st Class Certified, internationally recognized Sr. GrandMaster, kids, teens, and adults train in Tae Kwon Do, Hapkido/Aikido, and Judo through a single combined curriculum. We educate and develop future leaders with well-rounded awareness and knowledge of societal challenges, guiding them to discern their Way.
Master S.H. Yu Martial Arts believes that the purpose of the Martial Arts Dojhang is to promote discipline and the Way, which includes the Way of Life, Justice, Peace, and Prosperity. The Martial Arts Dojhang is NOT a playground nor is it a birthday party venue: it is a sacred space for human development, fostering a disciplined purpose, good health, strength, and community through practice.
We believe the Martial Artist is “The One who follows and creates the Way using his/her own mind, body, and spirit.” Our teachers and instructors have a mission: they are responsible for developing each student’s highest quality of life. Our purpose is to “help the student discover the foundation of their life and build their interior kingdom.” This is true Martial Art.
Focus and Discipline
Structured classes teach students to listen, follow through, and carry that focus into school and work.
Real Self-Defense
Striking, throws, joint locks, and safe falling from four martial arts, taught for real situations, not just tournaments.
Confidence That Lasts
Every belt is earned through testing, so students build confidence on actual skill.
Learn From a Legend
Experience True Martial Arts
Celebrating GrandMaster Yu’s Ongoing Martial Arts Leadership
Sr. GrandMaster Yu is a Kukkiwon-certified 9th Dan, one of the highest ranks in Taekwondo, and has taught martial arts in Oak Park for more than 30 years. In 2026 he was inducted into the U.S. Taekwondo Grandmasters Hall of Fame and named National Vice President of the U.S. Taekwondo Grandmasters Society. He still teaches 5 to 6 hours a day, so every student learns directly from a Hall of Fame Grandmaster.
Words of Wisdom from GrandMaster Yu
One Program, Four Martial Arts
Most martial arts schools teach a single style. Here, every class combines Tae Kwon Do, Hapkido, Aikido, and Judo, organized by age and experience level instead of by discipline. You never juggle separate schedules, and each session builds striking, throws, joint locks, and self-defense together. The one separate program is our Saturday Kumdo / Gumdo sword class.
Martial Arts Programs for Every Age
*Class Schedule/Times always subject to change based on the service to our community & students!
**The Dojhang is cleaned daily after classes**
How to Get Started
Observe a Free Class
Visit our Oak Park school, meet our instructors, and see a class in action. Schedule a time or stop in during any class; no appointment needed.
Register
If it’s the right fit, enrollment takes about 10 minutes. We’ll help you choose a membership that fits your schedule and goals, with no long-term pressure.
Start Training
Pick up your uniform, set your start date, and step onto the mat. Most new students start within a week of their first visit.
Events
Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples Day Holiday October 12, 2026
No Classes Today! Enjoy your Holiday! Let's Reunite on Wed, 10.14.26!
Happy Halloween: Trick-or-Treat to Fight Hunger!
Happy Halloween Everybody! Wishing our entire Martial Arts Family and Community a SAFE, HEALTHY, and FUN Halloween! No Classes Today! Today is the day we begin our annual Fundraiser to…
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We teach Tae Kwon Do, Hapkido, Aikido, and Judo combined into one curriculum under Sr. GrandMaster Yu, plus a separate Saturday Kumdo / Gumdo sword program.
Classes are combined. Students enroll by age and level (Children Level 1, Children/Youth Level 2, Adults & Teens), and every class draws on all four arts.
Not at all! We welcome students of all levels, from absolute beginners to advanced practitioners. Our Children Level 1 and Adult/Teen classes are specifically designed to meet you where you are, focusing on the “Way” of discipline and personal growth regardless of your starting point.
We find that children as young as elementary age benefit immensely from the structure of the Dojhang. Our children’s programs focus on building self-confidence, coordination, and respect, helping them create a strong “interior kingdom” during their developmental years.
Yes, and we encourage it. Schedule a free class observation or simply stop in during any class time. You’ll watch a class in action, meet our instructors, and get every question answered before deciding. Appointments are appreciated but never required.
While progress depends on the individual, most students see consistent growth by training 2 to 4 times per week. You can view our current class schedule to find times that fit your family’s routine.
Membership depends on the program and how often you train. We walk through every option in person during your free observation so you can choose what fits.
Begin Your Martial Arts Journey in Oak Park, IL
Start your martial arts journey today with Master S.H. Yu! We offer expert instruction in Taekwondo, Aikido, Hapkido, Kumdo/Gumdo, Judo, and other programs for students of all ages and skill levels. Our school proudly serves students in Oak Park, River Forest, Elmwood Park, Forest Park, and Riverside, IL, making it easy to find a location near you. Whether you are interested in youth, teen, or adult classes, self-defense training, specialty workshops, or private lessons, our experienced instructors are here to help you build confidence, discipline, and martial arts mastery.
Contact us today to schedule your free class observation in Oak Park, IL. We look forward to helping you achieve your martial arts goals!
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