Ethereal Arts Self Defense

118 Great Rd, Stow, MA 01775, USA

4.9 (49 reviews)

Disciplines

Muay Thai

Classes

Adults Classes

Facilities

Mat Space

Culture

Welcoming Environment

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Ethereal Arts Self Defense offers the best martial arts classes in Stow, Massachusetts for both kids and adults. Our expert instructors teach karate, muay thai, kickboxing, filipino martial arts, tai chi and more. We also offer an amazing after-school program!

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Reviews

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Kumiko Tanaka

All of the reviews were right! Fantastic teachers who are incredibly patient and get to know each student individually. I especially like how the more experienced students are encouraged to teach the younger ones, serving a role models. They occasionally host theme nights / babysitting as well.
Posted 1 year ago
Jamie

The instructors do an excellent job encouraging student growth, and in teaching skills and character to go along with those skills. The training is extremely worthwhile and also just a lot of fun.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Ryan Kreutz

I have now been coming to this school for five or six years and have enjoyed it immensely. Master Frost has been an excellent mentor and instructor for the entire time. All the staff is kind and knowledgeable and the lessons I have learned will stick with me forever. This school is excellent for children, beginners, to people who have been doing martial arts their entire lives. The exercise that each class gives you is another benefit. My only regret is not singing up sooner. Edit I have been going to this school 11 years! I still would highly recommend

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Sara Beauvais

The instructors at Ethereal Arts encourage students to develop a good balance of humor, strength, knowledge and respect. The students have fun while gaining important life skills and friendships.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
S M

I have both of my kids attending classes at Ethereal Arts Self Defense, and they absolutely love it! The instructors are excellent, creating a supportive and engaging environment. Not only are my kids learning valuable self-defense skills, but they’re also developing discipline and respect. Highly recommend!
Posted 1 year ago
Svetlana Mangeym

I have both of my kids attending classes at Ethereal Arts Self Defense, and they absolutely love it! The instructors are excellent, creating a supportive and engaging environment. Not only are my kids learning valuable self-defense skills, but they’re also developing discipline and respect. Highly recommend!

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Griffin Sweet

Great karate style, learning more self defense instead of a point fighting school

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Has Var

The griffon style Kenpo is amazing, the teachers are understanding and unbelievably patient. I’m a white belt who’s only been here for a few months but I know that this is probably the best sport I have ever done. -Fiona Elyazar

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 1 year ago
Tommys Shinebox

I have been studying with this school’s instructor staff, notably Grand Master Frost, for over 31 years. It has been a pleasure and a privilege to incorporate the system into my life. Griffin Kenpo and the martial arts on a whole are truly a “life study.” Here at the Ethereal Arts academy in Stow, you will enter into a circle of incredible people, you will learn amazing skills and you will face your own inner struggles with making mistakes and trying to improve. If you rush in life, you will learn to slow down in the dojo…if you gloss over details at work, you will learn to study nuances with your techniques, and if you are a perfectionist, you will discover that the only way to grow is to make occasional mistakes. The martial arts and Griffin Kenpo enabled me to lead a successful career of over 17 years in the Federal Government’s Department of Defense, serve two combat tours in Afghanistan, fulfill embassy tours in Doha Qatar and Beirut Lebanon, and many years at the Pentagon. I owe my career successes to growing a foundation of mental maturity in the five rules of this school…etiquette, effort, sincerity, character and self-control. The staff at the academy are always ready to help any student begin their journey. I vouch for this school and the people in it 100 percent…always. Edit: The addition of the Video Library is a great resource for me. I’ve never known a school to make video resources available by rank and it is incredibly useful. I can quickly and easily double check my technique, answer stance questions and improve my forms on my own time. It is very very helpful to my arts progression.

Instructors Facility Location Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Dave Rose

Very professional dojo and teaching. The kids all have a lot of fun while learning. Great place for all skill levels.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Kara Newcastle

Amazing dojo. Not only are the instructors incredible in their patience and ability to make the techniques easy to understand, the feeling of acceptance and community here is superb.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Ashis Shrestha

Been going here for many years by now, and all I can say is that if you are looking for a martial arts school, I cannot recommend this one highly enough. The instructors are so knowledgable and kind, and make every class a pleasure. The material is very demanding but also rewarding. There are also many different types of martial arts offered, so there is something for everyone. If you are unsure, please come in and give it a shot!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Sarah Marie

The classes fit my schedule and the instructors are respectful and happy to discuss accommodations for any special needs. The two week free trial gave me a chance to see if the courses, instructors, and school culture worked for me. I’ve made progress in a short time. I am an adult learner taking Tai Chi and Muay Thai, and I enjoy both classes for different reasons.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Vasumathi Venkat

In addition to being well skilled in teaching kids in Kenpo karate, Sensei Frost and his team (including the senior back belt students who coach at times) provide a highly positive, nurturing environment in the dojo. Coaches are funny and kind in their demeanor towards children but focused in the child's development of the day's lesson. Logical reasoning provided to each move and techniques, in a succinct (best one liners!) manner, helps the kids to relate to what they are learning. One of the best gems, in MA, for martial arts. My son has been learning at the school since 4 years and highly recommend this exceptional school to all kids.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 2 years ago
Steven Lacerte

I have studied martial arts over the years and had been away for a while, so decided to look into what Ethereal Arts had to offer. There are two free sessions to give the student an opportunity to see how the dojo operates, and I was fully committed after the first session. Grandmaster Eric is an excellent and well rounded teacher and adjusts his style to the individual student. My learning style is different from some of the other students, and he is able to balance my needs with those of the other students. He also has a very positive but not overly serious approach, which really makes the class enjoyable. Great place, great value! 1 year later: still there, still excellent experience!

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Posted 3 years ago
Samantha Wayman

Amazing program. Staff is fantastic. I couldn’t ask for a better place.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 3 years ago
Dane Paoletti

Excellent facility and instructors, would highly recommend to others! My son started with the free trial and now has officially signed up. Instructors provide individualized attention and good communication with the child and parents. The martial arts programs not only emphasize physical benefits but also important life skills and values.

Instructors Facility Classes
Posted 3 years ago
Shalini Devi

Best place for all martial art lessons with all the equipments and facilities. Grand master Frost is very good with kids and understanding. They have classes for all the age group.

Instructors Facility Classes
Posted 4 years ago
Bradford Wargelin

My daughter and I have been taking private kenpo karate lessons from Grand Master Frost for five years. We chose this school because of Sensei Frost's patience, sense of humor, and ability to tailor his training to each student. My daughter has generalized anxiety/Asperger's, and her success at learning self defense has greatly improved her confidence. She hates the idea of anyone getting hurt, and Griffin kenpo's emphasis on Chin Na (joint lock techniques) fits very well with that. I love how karate is based on over a thousand years of study of how the human body works, applying small forces to particular points in specific ways to yield a large effect. I must have said "Whoa, that's so cool! Why does that work?" a hundred times, and always look forward to class, even if I'm tired, because it's so enjoyable to learn something new and different, and forget about the worries of the day. Update 3/23/22: We've now been at Ethereal Arts for 8 years, and are happy to be back to in-person classes as of several months ago. Our online classes worked well during the Covid era, but it's not like having lots of practice space in a dojo. We're glad that EA kept going (and even grew) and have really enjoyed seeing our old friends again (and the progress they've made!) along with so many new faces.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Richard Caissie

Grandmaster Eric is very knowledgeable about the martial arts and encourages his student to ask questions about what they are practicing. His answers are very thoughtful and often eye opening. I have been an Ethereal Arts Tai Chi student for about 6 months, with some prior experience. I am very confident that I can continue my growth, quite well, as a student with Ethereal Arts Self Defense.

Instructors Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Youfei Chen

I have been training at ethereal arts for 3 years now and cannot be happier about my improvements. Very professional and detail oriented teaching.

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Posted 5 years ago
Angelo Pucillo

I have been a student at Ethereal Arts for under 1 year. They are expert teachers of the art of Kenpo. The dojo is very relaxed and fun. They teach discipline in the learning, but are very kind about it. The amount of knowledge the sensei, Masters, and Grand Masters possess is staggering. A great place to learn self defense for adults and kids.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Nora Rogers

I took classes here for about 2 months. If I didn't have to move I would still be there! Sensei Frost is a wonderful teacher and the classes are a great balance of educational and fun. The other students are knowledgeable and very welcoming to beginners.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
Abby O'Brien

I have 2 children that now attend this school and both of them are loving it. Master Frost has a very patient and calm demeanor and makes it very fun for the kids as well. Highly recommend this school.

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
pat obrien

Although my son has only been going for a little over a month now, I can honestly say I have seen huge improvement on his attention and focus. My son looks forward to going each week and I look forward to watching him. My son is in 2nd grade so I am always amazed at how Master Frost keeps his attention. Definitely would recommend this dojo!!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
Megan Woods

Both of my kids practice at Ethereal Arts Self Defense in Stow and they love it. The after school program is fantastic - with pick up direct from school and an afternoon of activities before the evening class. It’s amazing how Grand Master Frost has a created an environment that is both nurturing and respectful all at once. I’m so happy we found this karate school and highly recommend it to others.

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
G H

My daughter has been taking Muay Thai Kickboxing for about 2 months. The staff is wonderful to work with - very positive and encouraging. Master Frost is a wealth of information, welcomes questions and strives to make sure students understands each move as well as how it is used in self-defense. I would highly recommend Ethereal Arts to anyone interested in learning self-defense or reaching their personal fitness goals.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
Paul Haapanen

I've been taking lessons here for a little over a month. It's been a great experience. The classes are fun, and engaging. I always look forward to going in. Highly recommended.

Classes Atmosphere
Posted 6 years ago
Micarla Erasmus

Very nice classes , great for groups!

Classes Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
Jerry D

Great place to learn

Instructors Atmosphere
Posted 7 years ago
C Buck

Ethereal Arts is an incredible dojo with amazing instructors. Master Frost is an extremely experienced, wise, and kind teacher with a vast wealth of knowledge. This can be demonstrated through the multitude of martial art classes and styles that are offered at this dojo. Ethereal Arts is unique in the way that it teaches its students, with hands on practice and acute attention to detail. Any student to study at this dojo would be lucky.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
Cindy Parmenter

Ethereal Arts is a wonderful Dojo. Master Frost has over 30 years experiance. The dojo is open and friendly for adults and kids alike. There are a variety of group classes offered at different times throught the week. If you want something more personal he offers private lessons too. I'm so glad i found such a knowledgeable and friendly dojo to further my martial arts education.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
John Halpern

Here is a dojo that truly welcomes...everyone! Grandmaster Frost loves and is wonderful with new students and inspires even the very young. The motto of the school offered up by all students at the end of class is “Effort, Etiquette, Sincerity, Character, Self Control” and they do become words to live by not just in class but in life. The other instructors and student assistant teachers are also very kind, knowledgeable, and open hearted - which is unsurprising as you come to get to know them all (they live by that same motto). In short, this dojo is a wonderful gem that deserves much more recognition and definitely has room to grow! Adult students also quickly come to love this dojo and there are additional classes in tai chi and various weapons, too. One more plug: it’s incredible to see kids with obvious attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) improve/change through developing their practice in this dojo. As a physician, I know medication can wind up being necessary, but, even so, for those that want to try no medication or just to do something in addition, I am convinced Ethereal Arts makes a huge positive difference for these kids, too! With free initial class and various intro specials, potential new students really have nothing to lose to check them out! Just call or drop in. Ask parents like me who like to watch all the action, too: coming to Ethereal Arts is FUN!

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Posted 8 years ago
Brenda Mccurdy

Ethereal is a great Dojo. Grand Master Frost and his crew are fantastic with the kids. I would strongly suggest you check them out!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
JayB

This is an awesome dojo with awesome instructors. I can easily speak to the kids KenPo classes as my son has been enrolled for a little more than a year, starting when he was just past 4 1/2. We wanted him to be involved in a regular program that would help teach him the values of practicing and about responsibility as well as help him focus a little better (or as best you can have a 4 1/2 year old 'focus'). My son has grown tremendously in the past year in the dojo and his focus and attention is better, and it's great that he has actual goals to work towards - his next belt. If he can practice and remember the techniques, he can progress - no short-cuts. And this is where the outstanding instructors come in. Grandmaste rFrost and the rest of the staff are incredibly patient and wonderful with the kids. I don't know how they do it, I'd lose what little hair I have left - they're amazing! They walk the kids through the techniques and will push them to be better, giving them confidence. I definitely recommend this dojo. They also have adult classes and schedules are found right by the door.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
Thomas Marshall

Simply a wonderful experience here. My two kids, at ages 4 and 6, studied Kenpo for 2 years each with Master Frost originally. We had to stop briefly for reasons unrelated to the school. But during the time off, they *begged* me to re-enroll them at ages 9 and 11. So I did and as a result my 9 y.o. loves Kenpo, and my oldest (11) loves Chin Na and Muay Thai. I've seen Master Frost discuss with children the deeper meanings behind various martial arts concepts. In a very gentle atmosphere, I've seen him teach children the meaning of respect. I've seen the kids politely raise their hands and ask penetrating questions that he takes the time to answer carefully. His school is centered around fundamental principals that both I and my wife have been impressed with since day one. Effort, Etiquette, Sincerity, Character, and Self Control. He takes time to have fun with them as well when the class earns it. And though I'm sure it eats into his time, after my sons' classes I will sit and ask him about the origins of nearly every last move, and even though I am not a student he spends the time to explain to me how the body works, the psychology behind various techniques, and why various strikes and blocks work so well. You can tell that he genuinely wants to help everyone learn. But I suppose that the bottom line for me came down to the fact that I've seen my kids actually want to learn for learning sake. Not for a colored belt around their waist; They *want* to understand more and more, all on their own. I don't think you can replace that experience with anything else.

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Posted 10 years ago
Tanya E

My son has been taking martial art self defense classes for 8 years now and his experience has been excellent. I would highly recommend this school to any parent or adult who wants a superior program for his/her child . I see great benefits for my son’s character and physical education here. Excellent instruction in martial arts and Tai Chi for all levels... VERY highly recommend!

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 10 years ago
Kara Senecal

I love coming to Ethereal Arts. I've been studying here for ten years, and not only do I feel like I've gained important and effective skills that will protect myself in a bad situation, I feel like I've gained friends and family too. The environment at the dojo is very welcoming and comforting, all of the students are supportive and Master Frost and the senseis are very patient and good-humored. I'm so happy that I found them!

Instructors Facility Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Jessie Christopher Padilla

My 7 year old son enjoys coming to class at Ethereal Arts Self Defense here in Stow for almost 2 years now. Master Frost and all the instructors are amazingly good with kids in teaching kenpo karate. They show mutual respect with the kids and use positive reinforcement in teaching. My son has learned not only the skills and techniques but more importantly the discipline and principles behind martial arts. We are very happy with Ethereal Arts and highly recommend it to parents who wants their kids to learn kenpo karate.

Instructors Facility Classes Location Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Tina Sawyer

My daughter has been going here for several years now. She greatly enjoys going to karate every week. When she started, she was very self-conscious and lacked confidence. Master Frost's instruction and teaching has really brought her out of her shell and increased her confidence. All of the instructors are incredibly patient with the students and are all wonderful teachers. I highly recommend them if you are thinking of enrolling your child in martial arts.

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Posted 11 years ago
Deborah Brookes

Highly recommend Ethereal Arts Self Defense. The children's classes are excellent and all the Sensei's are wonderful teachers in their own disciplines. They take their time with the children and explain all the techniques as they run through them. It is a great environment to learn the Kenpo Karate self defense and the children really enjoy their time there - in fact both my children attend classes 2-3 times a week.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 11 years ago
Brookes Paul

My 11 year old daughter and 5 year old son have both attended Ethereal Arts for just over a year now. My daughter attends the Kids Kenpo Karate class and my son, the Little Griffins, they both enjoy every minute. The tuition given by Master Frost and Sensei Mike and Jeff is excellent in my opinion. They don't just teach the techniques, they explain each move and the understanding and impact behind it. Master Frost is really excellent and particularly patient with my 5 year old. Little Griffins is very much structured towards Kindergarten age and installs the first steps into the Kenpo Karate in a fun way. My daughter has grown in self-confidence, is stronger and more self assured. It is not just a self-defense class it is also a great way to get fit, watching the kids after the warm up session tells you that they are all working hard. I would highly recommend Ethereal Arts.

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Posted 11 years ago
Lisa Lagasse

My son has really enjoyed the free trail classes. So much so he wants to join. Classes are great sizes, especially with a child with anxiety. Highly recommend!

Classes Atmosphere
Posted 4 years ago
Beth Williams

I have been studying Tai Chi at Ethereal Arts since 2006. Master Frost is an outstanding teacher. He not only thoroughly explains the moves, but the theories behind each move for both health and defense. Each student is allowed to develop and learn at their own pace. Great experience. I highly recommend if you are planning on studying any aspect of the martial arts.. You will constantly be challenged to be your best. Anything is always possible.

Instructors Facility Classes Atmosphere
Posted 8 years ago
Jessie Padilla

At this dojo, speaking in behalf of my son( I credit him, he still love this place, he was here for atleast 12 years and cant say negative things about this dojo as he loves it here, to a fault I guess) but sometimes Hardword and loyalty in this school,does not guarantee you'll reach or help your kids attain their goal. Although my son tried to hide it, I saw his disappointment., when he was not able to reach and get his Black belt. Before he went to college, For all his hard work for 12 years, competing alone for several years, and representing this Martial arts to Karate tournaments and WINNING Gold time after tine after tine. At a young age, he was elevated to the adult class because if the progression and skills, and competed in Sparring against older students. Last 2 to 3years I actually told my wife, that my son wont get his Black belt, I just know it, His sensai wont give it, even if he stays for another couple of years. I Just told my son , Belt is just a color, deep in your heart you know you are a Black belter, it would have been nice to see it, and get rewarded for your hard work, but life is sometimes Unfair. , Bias aside, he was one of the best Or the Best Student that Ethreal Arts Produced, and they did Him wrong. NOTE: I credit my son and wife when they told me to just let it go...but I just need to let this out and voice my honest opinion/review on this establishment.
Posted 1 year ago