St. Louis’s Best Karate Studio for Real-World Self Defense
Why Students Thrive at Legends Karate
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- Adaptable one-on-one lessons tailored to each student
- Confidence, discipline, and focus that carry into school and home
- Safe, structured classes for kids, teens, and adults
- Real-world self-defense skills based on Kenpo Karate
- A welcoming, family-friendly environment
- Supportive instructors who teach with patience and purpose
Build Confidence, Discipline & Real-World Skills
What Makes Kenpo Karate Unique
Kenpo Karate is a modern, practical martial art built from the most effective elements of several systems. Students learn the powerful strikes of karate, the throws and takedowns of judo, the joint locks and grappling of jiujitsu, the footwork and timing of boxing, and the fluid circular movement found in traditional Chinese martial arts. This blend creates a fast, adaptable style designed for real-world self-defense and personal growth.
How We Apply Kenpo in Every Class
In every class, students learn Kenpo through a structured, step-by-step approach that builds skill and confidence at the same time. We combine striking drills, partner practice, controlled self-defense techniques, and real-world scenarios so students understand not just what to do, but why it works. Each lesson reinforces timing, distance, awareness, and practical application — the core elements that make Kenpo effective for both kids and adults.
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New students can take a trial group or private class at no charge. Click to reach out and schedule your class.
Who we are at
Legends Karate
Programs We Offer
Private Lessons
As one of the few karate studios that specialize in private lessons, we’ve built our entire program to be fully adaptable to each student’s needs. This personalized approach allows every student to progress at their ideal pace while developing realworld selfdefense skills with total confidence.
Little Legends (Ages 3–6)
Our Little Legends program introduces young children to movement, focus, and confidence in a fun, supportive environment. Classes use age-appropriate drills, games, and basic self-defense concepts to build coordination, listening skills, and a positive attitude toward learning.
Junior Legends (Ages 7–11)
Junior Legends helps kids develop discipline, confidence, and real-world self-defense skills. Students learn American Kenpo fundamentals, improve coordination, and build strong character habits that carry into school and home. Training is structured, engaging, and tailored to this key developmental stage.
Rising Legends (Ages 12–17)
Rising Legends prepares teens with practical self-defense, improved fitness, and the confidence to navigate real-world challenges. Students train in striking, awareness, and scenario-based skills while building discipline, resilience, and leadership. This program is ideal for beginners and experienced teens alike.
Adult Karate
A challenging, empowering program that teaches practical self-defense, improves fitness, and builds confidence through American Kenpo.
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Our Class Schedule
Make sure to check out our schedule! Find the right time for you and your kids to train in karate!
Meet the Instructors
Brad Zimerman
8th Degree Black Belt Hachidan
Brendan Boyd
7th Degree Black Belt Nanadan
Drew Boyd
5th Degree Black Belt Godan
Check out what’s going on in class!
What Parents and Students are Saying
“Brendan is a patient instructor and great with younger children.”
“My kids are loving learning. The new location is so nice, and the staff is incredibly knowledgeable and patient.”
“Extremely friendly environment and everyone here is very experienced.”
“I love the instructor — very knowledgeable in martial arts, and I’m learning a lot already.”
“Legends Karate is the best martial arts studio in St. Louis, no doubt about it.”
Sign up for a free trial!
New students can take a trial group or private class at no charge. Click to reach out and schedule your class.
Proudly Serving Maryland Heights & St. Louis Families
Legends Karate is located near Westport off Page Ave. in Maryland Heights, making it easy for families from Creve Coeur, Bridgeton, Chesterfield, and the greater St. Louis area to train with us. Our studio is designed to be welcoming, convenient, and accessible for students of all ages and abilities.