martial arts

August 8, 2024 – For the past 35 years, Hockman’s Martial Arts has been a pillar of the Columbia, Missouri community, offering comprehensive training in Taekwondo, Karate, and self-defense. Founded in 1989 by brothers Jeff and Jade Hockman, the martial arts academy has grown to become a respected institution, inspiring generations of students with its dedication to discipline, community, and personal growth.

The Hockman brothers’ martial arts journey began after viewing “The Karate Kid” movie, then attending an electrifying Taekwondo demonstration, which ignited a passion that would shape the course of their lives. Determined to share this transformative art form with others, they established their first school in Centralia, quickly attracting over 100 students from the surrounding areas.

In 1994, the brothers opened their first school in Columbia, followed by a second location in 1995. Today, Hockman’s ATA Martial Arts is proudly owned and operated by Master Jade Hockman, a 6th Degree Taekwondo Black Belt who continues to uphold the school’s legacy of excellence.

Hockman’s Martial Arts primarily focuses on Songahm Taekwondo, a traditional martial arts style that evolves continuously to develop well-rounded practitioners. The school also offers a standalone adult Krav Maga program, emphasizing practical self-defense skills.

Education and continuous improvement are core components of Hockman’s curriculum, which is affiliated with the American Taekwondo Association (ATA). The Hockmans’ dedication to excellence is reflected in their numerous accolades, with both Jeff and Jade consistently ranking in the top 10 globally in their respective divisions. Jade even earned the prestigious title of Sparring World Champion in 2010.

Sadly, Senior Master Jeff Hockman passed away in 2016, but his mission lives on through his brother Jade and the countless lives they have influenced over the past three and a half decades. Jade reflects on their shared journey, saying, “I feel extremely fortunate to have the opportunity to change people’s lives every day while sharing my passion with others for the past 35 years. We teach an art that is for everybody, from a 4-year-old child to a 64-year-old grandparent.”

Hockman’s Martial Arts has developed hundreds of black belts, with more than a dozen students going on to open their own schools – a testament to the profound impact of the Hockmans’ teaching. The school’s commitment to fostering a supportive and empowering environment has made it a respected institution in Columbia, where parents and students alike attest to the strength, confidence, self-control, and life skills they have gained under the guidance of Masters Jeff and Jade Hockman.

As Hockman’s Martial Arts celebrates its 35th anniversary, Master Jade Hockman expresses his gratitude for the unwavering support of the mid-Missouri community, saying, “Our Legacy will continue from the students we have been fortunate to train.” For three and a half decades, this martial arts academy has been a beacon of strength, discipline, and community, and its impact will undoubtedly continue to be felt for generations to come.

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There are two locations in Columbia: