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My Story

When I first started training I wasn't really much good. I struggled with some of the basic principles and techniques. My kicks had no power and I was constantly off balance. It took me a lot of time to learn but I had a few factors that kept me going. I wanted so bad to be good. If this sounds like your train of thought we're a lot alike. I'm super competitive and I think if you really think about different aspects of your life you are too. I believe a healthy competitive spirit is healthy and essential for all aspects and levels of success. Jeet Kuno Do is part of who I am. If you love to learn and improve yourself JKD will become part of who you are as well (assuming it hasn't already). The never ending thirst for knowledge is a great characteristic for a student.  

It's important to realize that all your instructors are constantly expanding their martial arts knowledge and skills. Sifu Carlos, Danny, Jonathan, Tony, Andre, Alfonso, Calvin, Adam, Dwayne and Peter all have a few characteristics in common. They work really hard to refine their tools and have a deep understanding or strategy/tactics. With a combined 119 years of martial art experience, they have diverse journeys but all have a deep respect for one another. They will all tell you that JKD impacted their lives in ways they didn't understand when thy first started training. Jeet Kune Do becomes a way of life. The philosophies of the art penetrate into your daily living.  

Training gives you a sense of calm and confidence while it also keeps you humble. I'm so grateful to all you students who allow me to do what I love every day. Without students, I couldn't be a teacher. More specifically I couldn't teach the best martial art in the world. I also am thankful to my father for teaching me JKD at a young age and showing me how cool the art really is. Most of you probably know my Dad and know he's got a dynamic personality. He loves the art and enjoys sharing it with those who are willing to accept it. He taught every instructor at NY Martial Arts Academy and in some ways he's been a father figure to all the Sifus. That makes the instructors my brothers. I love them all and we've shared so much together. I hope you have and continue to forge bonds with your fellow students the way I have with the gentlemen you call Sifu. 

Sincerely,

James Orfanos

Award winning training

NY Martial Arts Academy is the winner of the most "Outstanding Martial Arts School in North America" -MP power summit (largest martial arts convention in the America)   Our instructors all have over a decade of martial arts...

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NY Martial Arts FAQ's

Over the past 31 years, we have helped tens of thousands of people achieve their martial arts, fitness, and personal development goals. I'm sure you have a ton of questions about how the program works and you want the info quickly so I'll...

Training in group classes

Training in the basic JKD classes gives you an overall picture of the art. We cover a wide variety of topics including the different aspects of combat and the philosophical elements of the art. Specialty classes are much more specific and focus one...

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The ancient world of martial arts have been admired by people like you around the world for centuries. People have gained a lot from these exercise classes; many adults like you have spent hours watching their children practicing a move...

A Brief History of Jeet Kune Do

Jeet Kune Do is a popular form of martial art that emphasizes philosophy and practical fighting skill over rigid movements and patterns. Though Jeet Kune Do styles vary from trainer to trainer, all share the common purpose of readying the...

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  Mixed martial arts classes have been taking America by storm, and for good reason. While many who participate in MMA training have dreams of becoming the next Ronda Rousey or Chuck Liddell, many others are drawn to the sport for the health...

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What Should I Expect to Learn in a Jeet Kune Do Class?

Jeet Kune Do was made popular by the martial artist, Bruce Lee. This form of martial arts training incorporates principles from boxing and fencing and borrows elements from Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, and kickboxing. If you are considering...
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