Leap of Faith Martial Arts, a family-owned martial arts studio, is excited to announce the opening of its new location at 618 Merchant Street, Downtown Emporia.
Known for its focus on discipline, character-building, and a welcoming community atmosphere, the studio’s expansion marks a significant milestone after eight successful years of operation.
A Dream Turned Reality
Leap of Faith Martial Arts was established by the Douglas family, inspired by then-teenager Madelynne Douglas’s vision of owning a martial arts school.
Taking a “leap of faith,” the family transformed this dream into a reality, creating a space where students of all ages learn not only martial arts but also life skills. Today, under the leadership of Brad, Loi, and Annika Douglas, the studio continues to thrive.
Enhanced Space, Expanded Offerings
The move to the new location allows Leap of Faith to offer enhanced facilities and a wider variety of classes. The larger space is designed to accommodate the growing number of students while creating an improved training environment.
Class Programs at Leap of Faith Martial Arts
| Program | Description | Instructors | Ages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core Classes & Sparring | Builds martial arts techniques and sparring skills. | Brad, Loi, Annika Douglas | 6 and up |
| Advanced Classes | Focuses on advanced Tae Kwon Do techniques and self-defense. | Master Brad, Ms. Annika | Advanced levels |
| Little Warriors Program | Introduces basic martial arts principles in a fun, structured setting. | Loi and Annika Douglas | 3-5 years |
| Black Belt Club | Includes weapons training and advanced martial arts techniques. | Ms. Annika Douglas | Advanced students |
With this move, the studio aims to expand workshops, host larger seminars, and even organize more significant community events like birthday parties and family gatherings.
A Family-Oriented Approach
At Leap of Faith Martial Arts, the focus is not just on physical skills but also on values such as Courtesy, Integrity, Self-Control, Perseverance, and Indomitable Spirit, the core tenets of Tae Kwon Do.
Parents are encouraged to train alongside their children, fostering a family-oriented environment where everyone can grow together.
“Martial arts is about more than just kicking and punching,” said Loi Douglas. “It’s about building resilience, respect, and confidence that carry over into all areas of life.”
A Community-Driven Success
The support from the local community has been instrumental in Leap of Faith’s growth. According to Casey Woods, Executive Director of Emporia Main Street, the expansion reflects the strong backing of local residents and businesses.
“It’s always exciting to see local businesses grow and flourish,” said Woods. “When the community comes together to support them, the entire area benefits.”
Grand Opening Celebration
The Douglas family invites the community to celebrate the grand opening of their new location this Saturday, January 11th, from 10 AM to 1 PM. The event will feature:
- Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony at 10:30 AM
- Activities and Demonstrations showcasing martial arts techniques
- Refreshments and Door Prizes
- Special Promotions for new members
This event offers an excellent opportunity to explore the new facility, meet the instructors, and learn more about the transformative power of martial art.
The new downtown Emporia location of Leap of Faith Martial Arts represents a significant step forward for the studio, enabling them to offer better facilities and more diverse programs.
With its commitment to empowering students through martial art, the Douglas family invites the community to experience a space where confidence, character, and physical fitness thrive.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned martial artist, Leap of Faith has something for everyone.
FAQs
Can beginners join Leap of Faith Martial Arts?
Absolutely! Leap of Faith welcomes students of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners.
Are there family classes available?
Yes, families are encouraged to train together, creating a supportive and interactive learning environment.
How do I register for a class or program?
You can visit the studio at 618 Merchant Street or contact them directly via their website or phone for registration details.
