Embrace Martial Arts
“I have been a member of Embrace for about a month now and the journey has been challenging and educational”
Best Martial Arts Classes in Wake Forest, NC
15 gyms listed · 5 in Wake Forest · 14 open weekends · all 15 rated 4.5+
Data verified October 16, 2026
Innovative Martial Arts Academy
“I also LOVE that they introduce a new word each month and encourage the children to understand its meaning and apply it to their everyday lives.”
Raleigh Brazilian Jiujitsu and Muay Thai
“It is easy to get started and I really enjoyed my time - only leaving because i am moving too far!”
Inmortales MMA
“Training with Coach Martinez has helped him become a more disciplined, confident, and responsible young man, while also supporting his health and fitness goals”
Heritage Jiu Jitsu
“We decided to put him in jiu-jitsu, and after only about 4 weeks of classes, we've already noticed a big improvement in his temper and overall character.”
American School of Martial Arts
“I've been taking Tai Chi for nearly 8 months now with Grandmaster Baird.”
The 15 gyms listed for Wake Forest, NC teach martial arts and combat sports. Styles taught, kids' programs and class times come from each gym's own pages, with star ratings from public reviews.
Area overview: Wake Forest, NC
5 of the 15 gyms we list are based in Wake Forest; the other 10 serve Wake Forest from Raleigh (12 mi). The gyms on this page are rated from 4.7 to 5.0 across 1,722 reviews; 13 have 50 or more reviews. The topics that come up most in reviews of the gyms on this page are "atmosphere", "skills" and "confidence". 14 are open on Saturdays. 4 have a BBB rating of A or A+. Domain records put 9 websites of the gyms on this page at ten or more years old; the oldest dates from 1999. 2 are family- or locally-owned and 3 list coupons or special offers. We have a website on file for all 15 of the gyms on this page; 12 publish a contact page; 9 list a public email and 3 take bookings online. We count these figures across the gyms on this page; distances are straight-line, and hours and prices change, so confirm the details with the gym before you enroll.
Are weekend martial arts classes listed for Wake Forest?
14 of the 15 gyms put weekend times on the listing. Saturday morning is usually junior classes and an open mat for anyone who wants extra rounds; Sunday is rarer. If your shifts move, ask whether a weekday class you miss can be made up on the weekend.
Peck's Taekwondo America
“Peck's Taekwondo is a great experience for any age that wants to learn and grow in the sport.”
Pendergrass Academy of Martial Arts
“The staff and instructors are patient, friendly, and truly focused on helping each child grow at their own pace.”
Lee Brothers Martial Arts
“The staff is professional friendly and truly cares about every student's progress.”
Master Chang's Martial Arts Headquarters
“As a single mom, I took my son to help him with focus and have good male role models.”
Elite Fire Taekwondo
“Elite Fire is a special place -- they have invested heavily in my kids, always meeting them where they are while pushing them to be their very best -- in physical skill as well as mental toughness.”
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Hometown Martial Arts
“Started my bjj journey here about a month ago and couldn't be happier!”
Quest Martial Arts Raleigh
“We spent a lot of time looking into martial arts classes in the area, and Quest was the most transparent about their pricing and scheduling, and we felt most comfortable starting with them.”
Royce Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy of Raleigh
“I highly recommend this academy to any parent looking for a safe, structured, and motivating place for their child to learn authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu.”
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Energy Kidz
“We have participated in the toddler/preschool tumble gym program and have always been impressed and enjoyed our time.”
Why these companies made our list
What students and parents say about gyms in Wake Forest
- “Both of my boys absolutely love going! The atmosphere is welcoming, encouraging, and fun while still emphasizing discipline, respect, and learning new skills.” — from a review of Innovative Martial Arts Academy
- “With the constructive and disciplined environment Jeremy provides, you will see your child’s skill and confidence grow… which will make your heart smile!” — from a review of Heritage Jiu Jitsu
- “Every single person I’ve met from the instructors to students at every level and belt has taken time to help me, show me how to improve and genuinely care about who I am and how I’m developing.” — from a review of Embrace Martial Arts
- “I enrolled my little one at about 5 and I have seen a world of growth in discipline, confidence, and her social skills in the past few years.” — from a review of Innovative Martial Arts Academy
- “Jeremy is an excellent black belt with tons of experience and knowledge to share.” — from a review of Heritage Jiu Jitsu
Excerpts from public reviews of the gyms listed on this page.
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