Ages 55 & Up | South Toms River, NJ
Seniors Taekwon-Do
It is never too late to begin or to return to a practice you once loved. Our Seniors Taekwon-Do program gives adults 55+ a safe and supportive way to stay strong, mobile, mentally sharp, and connected to their community
"The instructors are top notch. They are very relatable and have an abundance of knowledge and experience. The class sizes are perfect for getting a more personalized learning experience and the atmosphere is very welcoming.”
— Brian C.
What is Taekwon-Do?
a traditional Korean self-defense martial art that combines powerful techniques with a philosophy of respect and discipline to develop strength, confidence, and character.
Yes, students learn how to kick, punch, block, move, and defend themselves, but the deeper purpose of training is what happens along the way.
The Five Tenets of TaeKwon-Do provide a foundation for how students learn to conduct themselves:
Courtesy
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Integrity
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Perseverance
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Self-Control
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Indomitable Spirit
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Courtesy • Integrity • Perseverance • Self-Control • Indomitable Spirit •
These aren't just words to memorize. They're qualities students practice every time they bow onto the mat, show respect to a training partner, work through a difficult technique, control their reactions, or choose to keep going when something is hard.
6 LIFE-CHANGING BENEFITS
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1. Stay Strong and Capable
Strength isn't just about lifting weights, it's about being able to get up, carry groceries, climb stairs, keep up with your family, and continue doing the things you love.
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2. Keep Your Brain Sharp
Taekwon-Do isn't just exercise for your body. Learning patterns, remembering techniques, coordinating movement, and responding to changing situations gives your brain a workout, too.
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3. Train for Longevity
Staying active isn't just about how you feel today, it's about maintaining your ability to live an active, independent life for years to come. Responsible training adds years to your life, not subtracts from it.
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4. Improve Your Confidence
There's something powerful about realizing you can still learn, improve, and challenge yourself at any age. Each new technique and every small improvement is a reminder that your potential doesn't have an expiration date.
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5. A Sense of Purpose
Having something to work toward matters at every stage of life. Taekwon-Do gives you goals to pursue, skills to develop, and milestones to celebrate. It is never too late to challenge yourself and accomplish a goal.
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6. Stay Connected
Health isn't only physical. Build friendships, meaningful connections, and train alongside people at different stages of their journey, and become part of a community that celebrates progress at every age.
is this for me?
If you think martial arts is something you can’t start at your age, think again.
Our Seniors Taekwon-Do program is designed for adults 55+ who want to stay physically capable, mentally engaged, and connected to their community. Whether you're looking for a new way to exercise, want to improve your balance and mobility, or simply want to challenge yourself by learning something completely new, there's a place for you here.
When practiced responsibly and adapted to the individual, martial arts can be a lifelong practice that supports healthy aging rather than something you have to leave behind as you get older. The goal isn't to train like you're 25. The goal is to help you be the strongest, most capable version of yourself at 55, 65, 75, and beyond.
Seniors classes are taught by Grand Master Gantner, who is in his 60s and continues to practice Taekwon-Do himself. As he ages, he wanted to create a practice that could evolve with him—not one he would eventually have to give up. Every class is designed to meet you where you are, with modifications and adaptations always available to support your body and your abilities.
WHY TRAIN HERE
A LEGACY ROOTED IN TRADITION.
At The Lotus Academy, you have the opportunity to learn traditional Taekwon-Do directly from Grand Master Chris Gantner—a 9th Degree Black Belt and one of the most respected figures in the global Taekwon-Do community. With more than five decades of experience, GM Gantner has competed internationally, taught seminars around the world, and dedicated his career to preserving and advancing the technical standards of traditional Taekwon-Do.
We believe Taekwon-Do is more than a sport. It is an art and a discipline that develops the whole person. We are committed to teaching authentic, traditional Taekwon-Do, which honors the connection between the mind, body, and the Spirit. Physical training builds strength and skill. Mental training develops focus, discipline, and resilience. And through the deeper philosophy of Taekwon-Do, students learn to carry what they practice on the mat into every part of their lives.
World-class instruction
International Taekwon-Do Hall of Fame honoree (GM Gantner)
Authentic Taekwon-Do training
Structured curriculum and belt progression system
Modifications available for all ages and abilities
Small class sizes for personalized instruction
Ready to get started?
Begin your journey with a FREE 45-minute Private Introduction to the studio. Ask questions, take a tour, and begin learning—this session is yours to shape!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Absolutely not. It is never too late to begin or to return to something you once loved. Our Seniors program is specifically designed for adults 55+, and you don't need any previous martial arts experience.
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When traditional martial arts training is taught responsibly and adapted to the individual, it can be a safe and beneficial form of exercise. Our Seniors class is intentionally paced for this age group, with an emphasis on controlled movement, proper technique, balance, mobility, and individual ability. You are never expected to do more than your body can handle.
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That's okay. You don't have to get in shape before you start. You start where you are, and your abilities can develop over time. Our goal is to help you become stronger, more mobile, and more confident.
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Everyone comes to the mat with different abilities and experiences. Grand Master Gantner can help you understand how to approach the movements appropriately for your current ability. If you have a specific medical condition, injury, or concern about whether exercise is appropriate for you, we recommend speaking with your healthcare provider before beginning a new training program.
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No. Seniors Taekwon-Do is focused on technical movement, mental engagement, and personal growth. You will never be expected to participate in activities that aren't appropriate for your level or ability.
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For your first few classes, you can wear comfortable athletic clothing that allows for full range of movement.
As part of our New Member Jumpstart Program, you’ll have the opportunity to earn a free dobok (uniform). Once you have your dobok, it should be worn to every Taekwon-Do class.
We’ll make sure you know when it’s time to get your uniform and help you with the process!