CW Taekwondo at Boston — Local services in Cambridge

I found C.W. by happenstance. I moved to the Boston-area 6.5 years ago knowing no one and on a whim, decided to give martial arts a try. I went to C.W. because it was a seven-minute walk from my apartment -- although I also liked that it was a non-profit and volunteer-run. There, I not only found a new passion for Taekwondo (fostered by truly incredible, world-class athlete-instructors and classmates), but also a community of people who have become family.

C.W. Taekwondo, tucked in the heart of Central Square, is a true hidden gem of a place. People walking down Green Street pass by its unassuming façade every day without thinking about what's inside. But inside, nearly every night of the week, there is an assemblage of people of all ages and backgrounds, putting all of their hearts into each workout. Classes are led by preeminent Taekwondoists, who coach and compete for top spots nationally and internationally. The students are warm, hard-working - they smile while they sweat together. They stay after class to get help on techniques from each other. There is clapping for each other, there are high-fives, there are after-workout congregations at the bar across the street.

The culture of the place, focused on community, fitness, and excellence, is what makes this place special. I highly recommend C.W. Taekwondo. Even if you aren't looking for a new home-away-from-home, like I was 6.5 years ago, C.W. is the place to go if you're looking for any of these things: (a) a fun and effective way to work out and stay fit for really great prices; (b) stress relief through kicking in a safe space; (c) a new way to be social and meet wonderful people; and/or (d) the best Taekwondo experience in the...

C.W. Taekwondo is a truly unique place. I began in the adult taekwondo program with no previous experience, hoping to get a work-out in a non-gym setting. I've now stayed a member for over three years because of the excellent instruction, great friends, and welcoming community.

The instructors are encouraging, while holding their expectations to a high standard. The instructors are able to cater their teaching styles to individual students' needs and abilities. As I progressed through the ranks, I was able to appreciate the level of excellence our teachers exhibited; most competing at the national and international levels.

Workouts are fun and challenging, combining cardio, strength training, and curriculum/skills.

What makes C.W. so special is the sense of community. For an individual sport, there is a strong sense of support and encouragement. C.W. is constantly holding social events, as well as community events in Cambridge and Boston. A great group of people, and a great taekwondo education!

I highly recommend...

I joined C.W. a little over four years ago. I was looking for an activity that would allow me to get some exercise, relieve stress, and meet some new people. I had also always wanted to try a martial art, and C.W. happened to be the closest place to where I lived at the time. I knew within the first week that I had found a very special place -- one that gave me everything I was looking for and much more.

As many other reviewers have said, the quality of the instruction is world-class, the community spirit is inspiring, and the price is a steal. If you're thinking about joining but are worried because you think you're not athletic enough or not naturally flexible or too old -- know that C.W. really does welcome people of all ages and abilities! All the instructors ask is that you give everything your best effort and strive to improve...