Since 2008, Clifton Martial Arts Academy has built confident, disciplined students through authentic Karate and Taekwondo — plus practical self-defense and bully-prevention training for the whole family.
Every student. Every goal. Every belt. We're here every step of the way.
Clifton Martial Arts Academy has been Clifton's premier martial arts destination since 2008, teaching authentic Karate and Taekwondo to students of all ages. Led by Chief Instructor Jim Meghdir, the academy builds confidence, self-discipline, and communication skills alongside real self-defense technique — always emphasizing conflict avoidance first: physical self-defense is taught as a last resort, not a first response.
Chief Instructor
Jim Meghdir has trained in martial arts since the age of 6, earning multiple Black Belt certifications (1st through 4th degree) along with advanced rank in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Taekwondo. A national tournament champion from 1993 to 1995 and a Penn State business graduate, he founded Clifton Martial Arts Academy in 2008 to help students build the confidence, self-discipline, and self-defense skills he found through his own training.
We don't just teach Karate & Taekwondo — we build better people.
Students earn every belt by demonstrating real technique — we don't hand out ranks. With a 5.0-star Google rating and 18 years in Clifton, our standards speak for themselves.
From young kids to adults, complete beginners to returning martial artists — everyone feels at home at Clifton Martial Arts Academy. This is a family, not just a gym.
Parents and students report improvements in focus, confidence, and discipline within the first 30–60 days. Our structured curriculum ensures every student progresses at every level.
Something for everyone — from toddlers to adults, beginners to competitors.
A gentle introduction to martial arts for our youngest students, focused on courteous behavior, cooperation, and concentration. Peewees quickly learn what martial arts is — and what it isn't — while building the social and motor skills that set them up to succeed.
Our Kids program develops motor skills, socialization, and focus through belt and stripe progression that rewards persistence. Families consistently see the carryover at home and at school — better concentration, better grades, better behavior.
A welcoming, no-pressure environment to push your mental and physical limits. Teens and adults build flexibility, strength, and balance while learning real self-defense technique — 2–3 classes a week recommended, no pre-scheduling required once enrolled.
Three easy steps to your first class — no experience required.
Click the button below or call us at (973) 779-0200 to reserve your free intro session at a time that works for you.
Arrive in comfortable workout clothes. We'll give you a tour, introduce you to the team, and guide you through your first class.
If you love it — and you will — we'll find the perfect program and membership that fits your goals, schedule, and budget.
No commitment. No experience needed. Just show up.
Take the first step toward the best version of yourself. Book your free trial or get our full pricing and schedule sent directly to you.
Clifton Martial Arts Academy