Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Karate classes for children, teens, and adults in Colchester, Vermont.

Our Approach

Martial Way is committed to disciplined, practical martial arts training that supports students of all ages in building skill, confidence, and respect over time.

Programs & Instructors

We offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Karate instruction for children, teens, and adults, taught by experienced instructors in a structured, supportive environment. Learn more about our programs and teaching staff.

Try a Class

Curious if Martial Way is the right fit? Email martialwaysdc@gmail.com to schedule a free tryout class.

Connect With Us

Follow us on social media and watch videos from our school and community:

Training Mind, Body, and Confidence Since 1988

Martial Way Self-Defense Center has been serving the greater Burlington area for nearly four decades, offering high-quality martial arts instruction rooted in discipline, respect, and real-world self-defense.

We provide beginner to advanced training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) and Karate for children, teens, and adults. Whether you are stepping onto the mat for the first time or continuing a long-term practice, our classes are structured, supportive, and welcoming to all.

Located at 73 Prim Road in Colchester, Martial Way offers programs for men, women, and children of all ages. No prior experience is required. Beginners are always welcome.

Our latest news:

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  Big Summer Changes at Martial Way VT: Flexible Schedules, Camps, and More Training Opportunities04/29/2026
  Warmer weather brings new flexibility for families, exciting summer programs, and fresh opportunities for children and teens to grow through martial arts training. As Vermont heads into the warmer months,… Read more: Big Summer Changes at Martial Way VT: Flexible Schedules, Camps, and More Training Opportunities
• 
  Welcome to Martial Way VT: New Members, Promotions, Summer Camps & April Updates03/30/2026
  Spring is an exciting time at Martial Way VT. We’re welcoming new students, celebrating promotions, preparing for tournaments, opening summer camp registration, and continuing strong momentum in both youth and… Read more: Welcome to Martial Way VT: New Members, Promotions, Summer Camps & April Updates
• 
  Martial Arts for Kids Vermont | Confidence & Discipline Training03/27/2026
  Kids Who Train Martial Arts Build Confidence, Focus, and Discipline Parents today are looking for more than just activities. They want something that builds character. Martial arts delivers exactly that.… Read more: Martial Arts for Kids Vermont | Confidence & Discipline Training

Curious if Martial Way is the right fit?

We invite you to arrange a free, tryout class in Martial Arts for Children or Martial Arts for Adults. Email us at martialwaysdc@gmail.com to learn more about our programs and to schedule your visit.

Martial Way Self-Defense Center

5.0

Based on 21 reviews

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Adam Strong

00:40 13 Jan 26

Does a great job with our kids, keeping them engaged etc..

Justin Dao

02:26 23 Dec 25

I was warmly welcomed as a drop-in for adult BJJ classes this December and would highly recommend this gym. The instructors and students are clearly passionate about jiu jitsu and the gym has a great culture. Big thanks to Dave, Chris, Serge, and the team for a great experience! Will definitely train here again soon.

Danny Paquette

23:50 15 Dec 25

Sense Quinlan Is amazing and patient with our children we have nothing but good things to say about Marshall way and all the other instructors and helpers in the class everybody's great including the kids

Davis Williams

23:24 02 Oct 24

mindy pariser-schmidt

15:19 16 Dec 23

My kids (ages 6 & 8) have been here for over a year, Sensei Dave is magic. He is literally the best teacher we've ever encountered, he is knowledgeable, patient, encouraging but creates solid boundaries and sets expectations and goals. I can't imagine doing martial arts with anyone else.

Megan Carmichael

22:44 12 Apr 23

What a gem! This is a wonderful studio with committed teachers and a remarkable philosophy. My rambunctious 5 year old looks forward to his class each week, and I get to see a side of him that I don't usually see -- he is focused and determined, takes his practice s9 seriously and has a ton of fun. Dave (Sensei) & Mr. E are so calm and encouraging, they lead with positivity and it inspires my kiddo to achieve. I'm so glad we found this studio and I expect we'll be returning for many years. Highly recommended, especially if you're looking to introduce your kids to the world of martial arts.

Chrissy Rose

03:15 10 Aug 22

We had such a great time at Martial Way! My partner and I both train in different martial arts (karate and capoeira) and are visiting friends in Burlington who train with Sensei Dave at Martial Way. We asked if we could attend class with them, and Sensei was incredibly welcoming to us. The class was wonderful, really informative with a great mix of techniques as well as flow from one exercise to the next. We would love to come back and would definitely recommend Martial Way to anyone looking to try martial arts, whether experienced or brand new to it.

Gina Stevensen

03:05 10 Aug 22

I’ve been coming here for over a year and absolutely love it. I had never taken martial arts before, so I was a little nervous about whether or not I would feel comfortable. Martial Way is such a welcoming, inclusive, and genuinely fun place to learn martial arts. I feel empowered through all the practical self-defense techniques I’m learning, and I always look forward to coming to the mat.