Megami Dojo
Premier Martial Arts Classes in Queens, NY
Nominated for 2025 Best Martial Arts School in Queens by “Best of the Boro”!
Why Choose Megami Dojo for Martial Arts?
Authentic Training
Experience traditional Isshinryu Karate, Hindiandi Gung Fu, and Filipino Martial Arts (Escrima / Kali) focused on practical self-defense, not sport fighting.
Personalized Attention
Small martial arts class sizes ensure high-quality, individualized instruction.
For All Skill Levels
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced martial artist, we will help you achieve your goals.
Watch Us in Action
A picture is worth a thousand words – check out our Video Gallery or our Youtube channel for video content!
Our Unique Offerings
Adult Martial Arts Classes
Engage in dynamic and effective group training sessions in the following styles:
- Traditional Okinawan Karate (Isshinryu) Classes
- Hindiandi Gung Fu Classes
- Filipino Martial Arts (Escrima / Kali) Classes
Private Martial Arts Lessons
Tailored one-on-one private martial arts lessons and small group instruction for kids, teens, and adults.
Self-Defense Seminars
Specialized self-defense training for groups and organizations, such as corporate groups and religious organizations.
Testimonials
“Not some run of the mill karate school / instructor. Actually focused on self defense / usable techniques”
– Robert H. Sabet, author of 12 books on Military Close Quarters Combat
“Deeply knowledgeable…always helps students learn through their own experimentation”
– Zach L. on Google Reviews
Our Philosophy
Teach how to think, not what to think
Not all techniques work in all situations. Other martial arts schools teach you a dogma based on the instructor’s beliefs. At Megami Dojo, you will learn how to experiment with and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of your martial arts techniques in various situations. You will find this method of instruction useful for any style you learn from any instructor for the rest of your life.
Traditional Training Methods
We preserve traditional training methods while encouraging experimentation and innovation to maintain effectiveness in the modern world.
Quality over Quantity
Megami Dojo is not (and will never be) a mass market school where we churn 6 classes per night to prioritize profit over quality. Our priority is high quality instruction.
Our Culture
At Megami Dojo, our culture is one of positivity and growth.
- We seek to make our martial arts better every time we train.
- We help others in the Dojo with their progress through constructive feedback.
- We are interested in learning and appreciating the techniques and principles of other styles, without deriding those styles for emphasizing different aspects or philosophies.
Megami Dojo is not just a class, but a community. Per Okinawan tradition, we hold a kanpai (dinner and drinks) outside of class 1-2 times a month.
Exclusive in Western Queens
Megami Dojo is the only school in western Queens and northern Brooklyn dedicated to teaching martial arts with an exclusive focus on self-defense, rather than sport.
Try a Class Today!
No prior martial arts experience is needed to start. If you have a background in the martial arts, you’ll discover a deeper and more nuanced understanding at Megami Dojo – guaranteed.
US Military & Law Enforcement Discount
Megami Dojo offers a lifetime discount off most tuition fees for active and retired US military and law enforcement (includes corrections). Valid for group martial arts classes and private martial arts lessons.
Full-time Student Discount
Adults (18+) who are enrolled in a degree full-time may qualify for a discount off Dojo tuition fees for the duration of their full-time degree enrollment. Valid for group martial arts classes.
Adults Martial Arts Class Information
When: Adult martial arts classes are Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8:30 pm, with additional classes on Friday early evenings. While other martial arts schools churn 5-6 classes of 1 hour or less, our longer class time allows for deep levels of instruction, analysis, and understanding impossible to achieve in a 1 hour class.
Who: Our group martial arts classes are for adults only. For teens and children, please inquire about our private martial arts lessons.
Where: In most cases, our group martial arts classes are held at 47-10 Austell Pl, LIC, 11101. The dojo is conveniently located near the 7, G, E, M, N, W, and R trains. Street parking is plentifully available.
Class is sometimes held in an outdoor space such as a local park so we can train in different terrains and weather types (including the cold, rain, and/or snow). In the real world, an assailant will not wait for you to find perfect flooring in a climate-controlled environment.
If you are interested in training but our class schedule does not work for you, please send us a note or sign up for our email list. We are looking into adding 1-2 classes per week and we will reach out to update you when that happens.
Typical Group Class Format
A typical adult martial arts class at Megami Dojo follows the traditional class format used on Okinawa by Isshinryu founder Tatsuo Shimabuku. It lasts 2 hours and comprises:
– Stretching as a group
– Performing anywhere from 1,000 to 2,500 total repetitions of the basic punches, kicks, and strikes found in Isshinryu or Hindiandi; done as a group
– Students break off in individuals, pairs, or small groups to work on whatever they’d like within the style(s) they are studying; the instructor will circulate to answer questions, improve technique, and teach new material
This class format is great for those who are self motivated, and due to our small class size, all students receive a great deal of individual attention. On the flip side, the traditional Okinawan style of instruction may not fit those who need a highly structured class.
Private Martial Arts Lessons
Looking to deepen your martial arts skills or learn practical self-defense techniques? Megami Dojo offers private lessons tailored to fit your personal goals, whether you’re an adult, teen, or parent seeking training for your child. Choose from private lessons in Karate, Gung Fu, Escrima, or self-defense designed to provide individualized instruction and real-world effectiveness.
Why Choose Private Lessons?
With one-on-one instruction, you’ll progress at your own pace, address specific goals, and receive expert guidance customized to your needs. Private training is ideal for those who want focused skill development, specialized training, or a flexible schedule that fits their lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to improve technique, gain confidence, or work towards a new level, we’re here to help you reach your goals effectively and efficiently.
Training Options Available for Individuals, Couples & Families
Private martial arts lessons can be for up to 4 people, so they’re perfect for individuals, couples, friends, or family groups.
Parents seeking real-world self-defense for their children or teens will find this an ideal option, as our group classes are adults-only.
Flexible Location Options
We train at our convenient location in Long Island City at 47-10 Austell Pl. For residents near LIC, we may also be able to offer sessions at your building, especially if you have a gym or workout space available.
Ready to get started? Contact us today for a personal consultation, and let’s discuss how private lessons at Megami Dojo can help you achieve your goals.
MARTIAL ARTS STYLES
Our group and private martial arts classes in Queens, NY teach the following styles.
Isshinryu Karate
Our Karate classes are in Isshinryu Karate: a style developed on Okinawa by Tatsuo Shimabuku, who improved upon traditional technique through the use of physical experimentation.
Hindiandi Gung Fu
Our Gung Fu classes are in Hindiandi. This style utilizes unique strategies to neutralize threats. Training emphasis is on the “overload method” and partner drills.
Filipino Martial Arts (Escrima / Kali)
Megami Dojo offers Filipino Martial Arts classes, primarily focused on real-world edged weapon defense rather than stick fighting.
MEET SANJAY TIRUMALA – HEAD INSTRUCTOR
Experience
Sanjay Tirumala has been immersed in traditional martial arts since 2000. He has trained under world-class practitioners, including retired US Marine Corps members, whose combined experience includes over 100 real-world self-defense situations.
Real-World Expertise
With firsthand experience in successfully defending himself in numerous real-world altercations, Tirumala understands the critical differences between sport fighting and genuine self-defense. This knowledge shapes the practical, real-world application of techniques taught at Megami Dojo.
Specialization
Tirumala specializes in adapting traditional martial arts to modern self-defense scenarios. His lessons are grounded in both his own experiences and the extensive real-world encounters of his instructors, ensuring students receive practical, effective training.
Innovative and Traditional Approach
Passionate about continuous innovation, Tirumala integrates a scientific, empirical approach to refine techniques and body mechanics, advancing the martial arts while preserving the traditional training methods of Okinawan Karate.
Commitment to Excellence
Tirumala’s dedication to excellence ensures that every class at Megami Dojo provides high-quality instruction tailored to real-world self-defense. His unique blend of tradition and innovation offers students a deeper and more effective martial arts experience.
Contact Info & Try a Class
To try a group martial arts class, inquire about private martial arts lessons, or inquire about group seminars, please contact us by text or email, or fill out the contact form below. You’ll hear back within 24 hours.
Text: 917-398-0972
Email: info@megamidojo.com
Instagram DM: megami_dojo
Youtube: @MegamiDojo
Location: 47-10 Austell Pl, Long Island City, NY 11101 (Private lessons can possibly be arranged to occur in your apartment building; please inquire)