Practical self-defense
Build situational awareness and develop useful self-defense skills through structured training.
Portland, Maine · Established 1985
Strength through
self-awareness.
American Martial Arts Foundation
A nonprofit school dedicated to Chinese Goju, practical self-defense, and a stronger community.
DisciplineRespectConfidenceCommunity
More than technique
Skills for the dojo.
Confidence for life.
Rooted in Chinese Goju, our approach brings physical training and personal development together.
Personal growth
Practice focus, perseverance, and self-control in a supportive learning environment.
A stronger community
Join a public benefit school committed to education, inclusion, and service to Portland.
Our school
A Portland tradition.
An enduring purpose.
Since 1985, American Martial Arts has helped adults and youth explore the discipline of Chinese Goju and the value of self-defense education.
Our mission is to make training a source of confidence, safety, and personal growth.
Meet the foundation →Learn with us
A place to begin.
Room to grow.
Explore our self-defense resources, learn about our approach, and find ways to get involved with the school.
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