About The American Martial Arts Foundation
Empowering Portland, Maine Through Martial Arts Education
Founded four decades ago in 1985, the American Martial Arts Foundation has been a cornerstone of martial arts education in Portland, Maine. Located at 70 Cobb Avenue since day 1, our school has consistently provided adults and youth with disciplined training rooted in the Chinese Goju tradition.
As a 501(c)(3) public benefit non-profit corporation, our mission extends beyond martial arts instruction. We strive to equip individuals with self-defense skills, confidence, and a sense of community responsibility. Our programs are designed to be accessible, focusing on personal empowerment, discipline, and lifelong learning.
Chinese Goju, blending traditional Chinese and Okinawan martial arts, forms the basis of our curriculum. This unique style emphasizes practical self-defense techniques, respect, and personal growth, making it ideal for students of all backgrounds.
Community engagement is at the heart of what we do. Through training, educational resources, and public benefit initiatives, we aim to foster a safer, healthier, and more connected Portland. Every purchase of our book or training resources directly supports our non-profit mission and the growth of our martial arts community.
Our Mission, Values, and Philosophy
At American Martial Arts, our mission is to empower individuals of all ages in Portland, Maine and beyond, through comprehensive martial arts and self-defense education. We are committed to fostering personal growth, resilience, and confidence by making the benefits of Chinese Goju accessible to our entire community.
Our school is founded on the core values of discipline, respect, perseverance, and integrity. These principles guide every aspect of our teaching and community engagement, ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds. Through structured training, we strive to nurture both mental and physical strength, cultivating lifelong skills that extend beyond the dojo.
Rooted in the tradition of Chinese Goju, our philosophy emphasizes the harmonious balance between hard and soft techniques, blending physical effectiveness with mindfulness and adaptability. This approach not only enhances self-defense capabilities but also encourages self-awareness, self-control, and a sense of responsibility.
As a public benefit corporation and 501(c)(3) non-profit, American Martial Arts is dedicated to serving the greater good. We believe that martial arts should be a resource for empowerment, safety, and community well-being. By providing affordable programs, educational resources, and outreach initiatives, we continue our commitment to making a positive impact in Portland and beyond.
Where Discipline, Inclusion, and Self-Defense Meet Public Benefit
Distinctive Features of American Martial Arts
Empowering Individuals and Strengthening Community Through Chinese Goju
Open Doors, Open Minds
Inclusive Martial Arts for All
We welcome students of every age, ability, and background, promoting a culture of respect and belonging in every class.
Be Prepared for Life’s Challenges
Self-Defense With Purpose
Our Chinese Goju curriculum emphasizes practical, real-world self-defense skills, tailored to empower individuals and enhance personal safety.
Cultivating Lifelong Values
Building Character and Discipline
Martial arts training at American Martial Arts instills discipline, focus, and perseverance—qualities that extend beyond the dojo and into daily life.
Martial Arts for the Greater Good
Community Service and Public Benefit
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, we are driven by a mission to give back—offering educational programs, outreach, and accessible training to strengthen our community.
Meet Our Instructors and Leaders
We are a dedicated team of professionals committed to delivering excellence.
Mark Hider
Head Instructor,
8th Degree Blackbelt,
CEO & Founder.