Lilly U.

The community at Martial Arts Center for Health (MACH) is inspiring. There are students of all ages, walks of life, and levels of skill. The instructors are a very supportive and encouraging team. I have never once felt like I’ve been talked down to or treated differently because I’m not as good as others. The environment is peaceful and the positive energy envelopes anyone who enters. Every success is celebrated and other students are supportive in your quest to improve. Unlike going to a traditional gym the workouts at MACH are gentle to the body but produce amazing results including an increase in strength, balance, and concentration. If traditional gyms have not worked for you MACH may be the alternative you are looking for.

Lynn W.

Thanks for the great instruction and support that you are offering through the Martial Arts Center for Health. It truly has changed my life and has given me better health, better focus, more confidence, and a place to feel comfortable and take care of my health.

Tim H.

As an update one year later, I have lost 25 pounds no longer required to take blood pressure medication which is extraordinarily prevalent in my family. I’m still prone to it if my body is under unusual stress like a recent vertigo episode. Once the vertigo left, my blood pressure went back normal of course! That could have happened to anyone!

My Lupus flare-ups are now rare and minimal – especially with a huge reduction of the chronic fatigue associated with it ( I’m still able to attend class on an occasional “so-so day”) In contrast, my fatigue used to put me out for days!
Also, My body is better conditioned today than it was 20 years ago when I worked out regularly at the gym at the age of 25! I’m not claiming this pathway is a magic bullet. It takes a love for the activity and a lot of hard work. I fit it into my schedule 5 days a week as a single mom! Its in my routine as concrete as a job and cooking dinners. No room for excuses in my life. The money Im saving in health costs alone is worth my investment of time and tuition.
Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would be involved with martial arts. Someone else set up an appointment for me for my birthday! I wasn’t looking for this at all!
Once you see a free demonstration from one of our masterful instructors who are always willing to share (and by the way they are ALL compassionate, kind and sooo funny! Lots of laughter in this space), that will be the moment when you say to yourself…
“That is too cool for words and I want to do that too”.
There is nothing to lose when our instructors will meet with you for free. It makes for a unique birthday gift, thats for sure! In my case, a life long gift I will be forever grateful for. (Disclosure: If I sound like Im in the sales industry, be assured I am not. This is MY heart felt testimony that describes only my experience. Many more people need this, they just don’t know it yet.)

Sandy E.

MACH is a great place to develop overall physical conditioning, balance, coordination, endurance and mental focus. The instructors meet with each student individually to determine their goals and learn about any physical limitations or conditions a student may have. MACH is a friendly, non-competitive school where the focus is directed at health. The owners, Thomas and Eva Curtin have created a beautiful space where anyone who is willing, regardless of their age or physical condition, can improve their health and have fun doing it. The roots of the martial arts traditions are respected yet facilitated for the 21st century. As an older student (age 57) who has never participated in martial arts I was concerned about my ability to do well but with the patience and encouragement of the instructors I have made excellent progress. Each week at MACH is new adventure and I’m never bored as the program is always changing. The instructors strive to educate the students about the forms they are learning so classes at MACH aren’t just about physical development but also a learning opportunity. They’re always offering to help students with any questions they may have and know how to help students move past their comfort zones in a safe manner. At the time I enrolled in MACH I had either stopped or greatly reduced the activities I had enjoyed in the past, including bike riding, hiking, swimming and landscaping due to joint pain I was experiencing and lack of endurance. I’m now back to doing the things I enjoy and don’t suffer from joint pain. Not only has my overall physical condition improved but I feel more confidence in my ability to take on new challenges.

Mike M.

MACH is a one-of-a-kind Martial Arts Center. The instructors are kind, friendly, patient, very knowledgeable and non-judgmental. The studio is beautiful and peaceful. But the icing on the cake is the results! After all, that is what we are seeking. I started with MACH only 2 months ago, participating 3 – 4x a week in their Introductory Program. This past weekend, while celebrating my little grandson’s birthday, I found myself sitting on the floor playing with him – with no support; and getting up from the floor with very little effort (even while holding the baby!). I didn’t even realize it until later . . .but I didn’t need any kind of support to lean against at all – – which has not happened for several years. I was using my own body strength easily, effortless and without even thinking about it! After only 2 months! I just joined their Complete Health Program and cannot wait to experience the improvements coming my way!! Thank you MACH!!!

Vicki K.

Dear Mr. Curtin,

This letter serves to extend our appreciation for the wellness services the Martial Arts Center for Health has been providing the City of Maitland when teaching Tai Chi to our employees over these past three (3) years.

Employees that attend the Tai Chi classes thoroughly enjoy them and look forward to having trainers from the Center back throughout the year. All the instructors have been patient and have taken the time to teach employees not only the series of movements which are performed in a slow, focused manner but also the deep breathing techniques, and the meditative benefits of the practice.

Instructors have also been able to show our employees different movements and techniques of the practice that can be performed while at work. The most important thing, however, is that while employees are focused on following the different Tai Chi routines, they are focused on themselves and not thinking about work at all.

Thank you for the wonderful trainings the Martial Arts Center for Health has provided to the City of Maitland, and we continue to look forward to having you back in future years.

Best Regards,

Rachelle Mercado

Human Resources Specialist

City of Maitland

It has only been 5 days and I already love this place! I finally found a place that I am motivated to get to instead of dreading or forcing myself to go to! On the contrary, I don’t want to miss a day! Thank you Martial Arts Center for Health!

Charlotte P.

I highly recommend Martial Arts Center for Health! We recently attended their self-defense class and learned so much. My sister and two nieces were so happy that they could attend.

Wendy F.

I am so happy to discover the Martial Arts Center for Health. Its the best find of my life!! I’m recovering from a serious injury to my back, SI joint, & tailbone. The private lessons are the biggest turning point in my recovery. Every movement is tailored just for me. For the first time in a long time, I feel capable in my body. In 5 lessons, the stuff I’m doing… I can’t believe it! The progress blows my mind. Recommend them? YES!!!

Emily G.

Timing is important for this, I say, since I just celebrated my 3 year anniversary since joining the Martial Arts Center for Health in August 2016.

In my line of work dealing with management of risks, metrics play a key role, since one can measure and compare a scenario from an existing or starting point, if you will, to a point in time forward when you decide to re-measure or compare the “before” to the “after”.

When I joined MACH 3 years ago, I did so because my overall health, physical and mental, was not good. I was obese, with very limited range of motion, poor balance and, very limited stamina. These issues coupled with a stressful job managing others, was really taking a toll on my physical and mental health. Even though I joined MACH, I did not envision much would change for my physical or, mental health. But, I was wrong to doubt that my overall health could change for the better.

I do admit that it took a leap of faith and commitment on my part, mentally and physically, before I began to recognize how out of shape I was and how long I had allowed myself to look the other way. I once heard someone state that the definition of insanity is continuing to do the same thing and expect a different result. Well, in my case that was true, until the day came when I decided to reconnect and reacquaint myself with my body (and limitations). This is precisely where the instructors at the Martial Arts Center for Health, took on a very special role in my journey back to becoming a healthier me. In total I have lost 30+ pounds, increased my energy and stamina tremendously, and equally important, re-discovered confidence in me that I had lost a long time ago.

Don’t get me wrong, this requires a renewed commitment to participate in the classes, daily for some, for me 2-3 times a week has become doable and an enjoyable time that I set aside to help myself mentally and physically. After all, what could be more important!?

So, thank you, the Martial Arts Center for Health Team, for not giving up on me. I am looking forward to the 6th Section Evaluation on October 5th!!

Tony P.

I learned about how wonderful this place is from friend of mine that’s been going to the Martial Arts Center for Health for many years and really benefited a lot from it. I was going through a difficult time in my life and thought this might be a good way to help me get through it. That ended up being one of the best decisions I could have made! The atmosphere here is very friendly and welcoming. It’s been great learning a different way to improve my health and with people I now call my friends. The instructors do their best to give you lots of individual attention to put you at ease and as you learn all the variations of the martial arts they teach. I’ve been here almost a year and my body is a lot more toned and stronger. This is the most optimal place to care of yourself in all aspects. I feel like this the best preventative care for me as I age. It really is a center for health. I wish I would have started here a long time ago. Even though I’m a very health oriented person, it’s taken that to a whole new level. The variety of what they teach is way beyond what I expected and I love it all! I go almost daily. As an entrepreneur for over 20 years with a busy and varied schedule I like the multiple class times and feel this is the best medicine to manage stress. I really enjoy the people who come here and along with the exercise, I have made a lot of friends.

If you’re looking for a nice addition to your life and you’re considering martial arts, please give it a try! You’ll be glad you did!

Janet M.

I was surprised at how effective the techniques were. A lot of the movements I learned were simple but effective. All I had to do to prove that the movements were effective was to gently tap my own face. I know I would be safe walking around by myself. I have the confidence to go out when and where I want. It made me more aware of my surroundings. Everyone had fun learning the techniques together. Our group had fun on the punching bag. The teachers explained the techniques clearly and safely.

Susan W. -Self Defense Workshop

I have been going to the Martial Arts Center for Health for about nine months. I was nervous about learning martial arts because of many serious injuries that I sustained in a car accident. These injuries included becoming easily fatigued, muscle weakness and poor balance.

My private instructor developed a lesson plan that was made just for me. The lessons have helped me overcome my limitations. After a few lessons of learning moves and holding the positions I became stronger and improved my balance. I have better posture and I can now stand up straight.

The most important thing I have achieved at the Martial Arts Center for Health is a huge increase in my self confidence.

Bill R. -Private Lessons

I have been going to the Martial Arts Center for Health for about 4 months. I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in 2009, and my doctors have all said I should be doing physical exercise, especially weight bearing exercise. I have never been able to stick to an exercise program in my life. Either I got bored within weeks or I would injure myself by being over enthusiastic. But I absolutely love this place! The instructors are knowledgeable, caring, and enthusiastic. The program challenges my body and my mind, and I leave every class loving it more each time. The one-on-one attention you receive from all the instructors is unprecedented, and the program is easily adapted to each participant. The studio is beautiful and welcoming, the other students are friendly and helpful, and there are so many people here who have been going for years and years. This is a testament to the success of this program and the kind and wonderful people who work here. I hope to be a member for years to come.

Kristie B.

Can’t say enough good things about the Martial Arts Center for Health. I joined to rehab my knee from a torn ACL but I found their program went well beyond that…. I have increased my flexibility, strength and balance in an amazing environment since joining seven months or so ago! My knee is better than ever and highly recommend the Martial Arts Center for Health.

Tony G.

Kids’ Class !!! My 9 year old son has been studying martial arts at the Martial Arts Center for Health for about 9 months. He is hooked and recently told me that he wants to “dive deep” into his martial arts training with the Martial Arts Center for Health. The kids’ classes at MACH are invaluable! I particularly appreciate the mutual respect between instructors and students at MACH and also the fact that there is a strong focus on safety, education, health and self-defense without aggression. Instructors and students demonstrate respect, dignity and humility while at the same time the students gain a sense of self worth, build strength and skill and learn how to fend for themselves. Let me offer my son’s perspective in his own words: “I really like the form and how it’s connected to the body; each movement that you do is connected to the body in some different way. We learn all about the bones and the organs and we learn about muscles and the anatomy. We learn different things about breathing. Before each class we sit and breathe, then we have a warm up, we learn kicks and blocks … I’ve gotten much better reflexes for sure, because he challenges us. He would never actually hit us but with the tip of the pad, he goes for our face, and we have to block up or block down or block back because sometimes he circles around us and we have to just stay in one place. If you can’t do something at first, it’s OK, you learn. They build you up mentally and make you stronger.” When I was looking for a place for my son to study martial arts, I was particularly interested in a place where I knew he would be safe, he would be treated with kindness and respect and he would learn discipline and self-defense without being taught to be angry or aggressive. I found the place. I recommend The Martial Arts Center for Health without reservation for adults and children!

Smruti J.

I went to my primary care doctor yesterday for a 90 day blood test and check up. He was impressed with the blood work results. Especially the kidney function numbers along with me having the lowest cholesterol and triglycerides in 17 years. He was impressed and I was 199 pounds down from 221 from when I started. I am excited and psyched and looking forward to practicing between now and our next session and I look forward to our next session. I feel like I’m aging in reverse. Thank you for your time each week and your patience. You are amazing and awesome.

Marc G.

I have been going to the Martial Arts Center for Health (MACH) since September of 2014. I have experienced significant changes physically and mentally during that time. Never is that so apparent to me then when I am injured or sick. Recently I, like so many others, contracted Covid-19. My nearly two week ordeal left me listless, with respiratory issues and a lingering cough. Here is where the owner and instructors separate themselves from other martial arts schools, gyms, personal trainers or anyone else in the “health industry”. I was asked to consider taking private lessons for a period of time in order to properly focus on my recuperation. My first thought was, “wouldn’t just coming back to class be adequate recuperation?” and then I realized that the answer was No. The reason being I had specific issues that had to be specifically addressed with correct breathing techniques called Qi Gong and correct movements and maybe even more importantly, the correct amount of those movements. I accepted the offer because I wanted to regain my health. During that time, I focused on what I was being taught and was consistent with my exercises. My improvement was obvious to both me and to the instructor. Even after my series of private lessons ended, I continued with my specific routine because it worked so well that I didn’t want to stop. Bottom line is, even after almost 8 years of attending the Martial Arts Center for Health, I am always surprised at the depth of knowledge that exists there. It comes to you as needed and when you are ready to receive it. I recommend anyone looking for a special place to get healthy, learn, be around positive people and never be bored to consider coming in to the Martial Arts Center for Health. It is not hyperbolic to say my life changed for the better when I became a student.