Calculated from categorized student reviews and profile completeness — instructors, schedule,
facility and pricing — using the data available to us. Manage this academy?
Claim this page to update it.
Disciplines
Gi
Classes
Adults Classes
Facilities
Mat Space
Culture
Welcoming Environment
Access
Free Trial
Discover a dynamic martial arts experience at Chapel Hill Quest. Specializing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and To-Shin Do, we offer training for all ages and skill levels.
Community reviews
Reviews from Jiu-Jitsu Blog members who have trained at Quest Jiu-Jitsu and Self-Defense. Member recommendations raise an academy's Jiu-Jitsu Blog Score.
Trained here? Share your experienceBe the first to review Quest Jiu-Jitsu and Self-Defense and help shape its score.
Continue with Google
I’ve been training at Quest for a year and a half, and can’t say enough positive things about the curriculum, instructors, and community. In that time, I have attained my blue belt, made many friends, and lost over 50 pounds in the process. If you’re looking for an inclusive and welcoming space to learn martial arts and have a lot of fun, look no further.
My 7.5 y.o. kid began lessons there recently, and I'm very impressed. This is the first extracurricular group activity….loves it, I love the discipline & control and I love how the instructors keep the kids engaged & on task, kindly yet firmly, redirecting as necessary, and recognizing kids efforts to behave. My kid's a well-behaved perfectionist, and it helps feel calm & safe when teachers are calm & kind to kids who have difficulty behaving. There's a nice community/family vibe there, and we can't wait to have birthday there this summer!
Quest Jiu-Jitsu and Self-Defense is hands down one of the best places ever! My son and I both train in Jiu-Jitsu here, and we absolutely love it. The energy, community, and instruction are unparalleled.
Hardee and Rachel Merritt, the dynamic duo behind Quest, are truly remarkable. Hardee is a phenomenal role model—not only is he an incredible martial artist and teacher, but he’s also someone I deeply respect and look up to. He’s kind-hearted, patient, and amazing with the kids, yet also a total badass that everyone admires. His ability to balance toughness with encouragement creates an environment where students of all ages thrive.
Rachel is equally incredible. She brings her own unique energy and expertise to the dojo, supporting every student with positivity and care. Together, Hardee and Rachel foster a community that feels like family.
The martial arts classes are fun, welcoming, and engaging for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, you’ll find yourself learning and growing in every class. My son started with To-Shin Do and Jiu-Jitsu over a year ago, and it’s been amazing to see his confidence, discipline, and skills flourish.
If you’re looking for a place to train, grow, and be inspired, Quest Jiu-Jitsu and Self-Defense is the place to be. I couldn’t recommend it more highly!
Excellent place to train BJJ, self-defense and fitness. I have tried nearly every type of class offered here, and they are all fantastic. Very well-run and clean facility with great instruction and mix of training partners. There is a focus on practical skill development and acquisition which I really appreciate. They also offer some really great seminars and unique outdoor training opportunities.
Having a self-defense training session really helped me enhance my IQ and helped me learn some real world scenarios of what could happen. This is super helpful in every day life and taught me very valuable things! I definitely recommend visiting here and getting a session in!
Quest Martial Arts in Chapel Hill is welcoming and encouraging space to begin or continue your self defense journey. My children started in the "mighty dragons" program, learning skills in a fun and engaging way, and continued as young adults to refine their techniques. As a parent, I was inspired by my kids, and stepped onto the mat to start my own journey back in 2010 and never looked back. The instructors deliver their lessons with a focus on learning by doing. I highly recommend Chapel Hill Quest Martial Arts. The culture, the camaraderie and the learning are all top notch. Give Quest a try!
A friendly & inclusive dojo!
I started training at Quest in May and it has been one of the best decisions I've made in 2024. I've always been interested in martial arts but never had the opportunity growing up, so I came in as a total beginner. Everyone from the instructors to my fellow students have been nothing but kind, friendly, and patient with me. The dojo is also very LGBTQ friendly!
Come check it out! You won't regret it :)
I began training Ninjutsu with Hardee back in 2005. My oldest son and I earned our Ninjutsu black belts there, and my youngest progressed up to green belt. The dojo was an integral part of our community for years. I also spent time in what we called "ground-fighting" classes, or jutaijutsu.
Hardee creates great culture. The folks who train at Chapel Hill Quest are top-notch. They work hard, and everyone seems invested in helping everyone else improve. Hardee excels at breaking down complex motor movements into digestible content, and he cares about his students. But, as my sons got older and moved to other high school activities around 2013 we stopped training. Despite this, I always felt like I was a part of the community.
Back in January 2024, I began to think about possibly training again. I was a bit overweight, and dealing with mobility issues. Obviously, I'm also older than I was, and now 57. February 1st I returned to the dojo specifically to study jujitsu. I was 221 lbs, and stiff as a board along my spine. Fast forward to November 2024, and I am a lean 184 lbs, and while I'm still working on mobility, I've experienced big improvements. I move better, and frankly I feel better than I have in a long time.
If you are looking for a good place to train, to learn real martial arts with supportive staff (Hardee, Rachel, Brett, Justin, DeeDee, and John are terrific), and to be a part of a great community, you should consider Chapel Hill Quest Martial Arts.
The Jiu Jitsu training and instruction at chapel hill quest is better than any I have experienced around the country and the world. Hardee is a great instructor, and he is invaluable as a resource. Roy Dean is ridiculously great and still approachable. The practice at this gym is incredible, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything else. Because it is equal parts intellectually and physically stimulating, it is 100% satisfying
I've been practcing Toshindo Ninjutsu for 14 years in Australia. My first trip to see Sensei Hardee, his team and his students was a experience I will cherish forever. Sensei Hardee is definetly among the best ninjutsu and bjj teacher anyone could hope for. He his real about his approach to real life self protection, he can fight, and he looks out for you. I'm coming back again.
The training here is absolutely exceptional. The instructors are knowledgeable, supportive, and friendly and the curriculum is highly relevant to modern life and self defense. Both the Toshin Do (ninjutsu) and Jiu Jitsu training are first rate. I feel very fortunate to be a student here and can't recommend them enough.
Excellent! The staff is uplifting and positive, and very knowledgeable. I have enjoyed the Jiujitsu, Toshindo and the kickboxing classes, but the reason I keep coming back is the relationships I have built. When I walk through the Tori Gate onto the training mat, I truly feel like I am among friends that push me to be my best.
My workplace set up a one-hour self-defense course at Quest. Everyone enjoyed the experience and benefitted from the training. Very practical and interactive. Highly recommended.
Quest martial arts has very welcoming and supportive community of students and staff. The instructors always take time to answer student questions. As a student in martial arts I have learned a lot from the instructors and enjoy training at the dojo.
If you are looking for a total body workout, this is a great place to begin or continue your fitness journey. I have only done the kickboxing class and watched the martial art classes which are interesting and on my radar for my next challenge. The staff are very friendly and attentive. The entire staff and members are very welcoming and makes you feel like you are part of the team from first time.
My son and I started training in August of 2023 and we love it. My 8 year old loves learning the new techniques each week. The instructors are all kind, helpful, funny, knowledgable, and most importantly - welcoming. We feel the same way about our training partners and we're grateful for becoming a part of this special community.
Chapel Hill Quest is a wonderful place to learn martial arts. The teachers and community have such a great vibe, and the training suits people at all levels.
My wife and I were looking for a fun physical activity to keep healthy, and after looking at some other martial arts dojos, we did a free week trial at Quest. The staff and other students were all welcoming and friendly, and we signed up immediately... we've been going regularly a few times a week for the past 3 months, and we really enjoy it.
The instructors are clearly expert at To Shin Do (a modern variation on ninjutsu), and they know how to explain each move well; they're also really attentive and patient with older beginners like me, and at demonstrating why we're doing each move, not just how to do it. They treat it seriously, but with a playful tone that keeps it fun.
Once in a while, they add practice weapons into the mix to show how the unarmed techniques we're learning can be applied to using knives, swords, and staves. That variety and versatility, grounded in history, is really engaging.
They offer plenty of sessions, so class sizes tend to be small enough to get individual attention, and they have black-belt assistants that watch us and help correct mistakes while we're sparring. And just as often, I learn from the other students (most of them with more experience than me) as we spar, since there's such a collaborative culture at the dojo.
If you're looking for a great martial arts community, for adults or kids, this is the place.
This place is actually the best! Chapel Hill Quest Martial Arts is great place for martial arts, and in a great location. I'm currently a red belt, and I really appreciate that they offer a variety of classes for all ages. It's a rlly good place, with very friendly instructor who are always willing to help.
One word to describe Chapel Hill Quest Martial Arts (CHQMA) … SENSATIONAL!
I absolutely love practicing/training jiu-jitsu at CHQMA. It’s a family-friendly environment, where you come as you are. The instructors (led by Hardee Merritt and Brett Moran) are extremely knowledgeable, making you always feel welcome.
I highly recommend CHQMA to anyone looking to practice/train jiu-jitsu (and To-Shin Do Ninjutsu), as I believe it’s one of the best dojos in the state!
Quest is awesome! I was nervous to give jiu jitsu a try, but this place is so welcoming and inviting. Everyone is friendly, helpful, and willing to accommodate your experience level, so it’s a great way to get into martial arts.
If you get a chance to work with Hardee Merritt, you are getting the opportunity to train with one of the best in the game right now. On top of that, the people at his dojo are just wonderful human beings. If you have thought about trying, or getting back into, martial arts.....you have to try Chapel Hill Quest.
Our family goes here for their Might Dragons class - our girls (4 & 6) love the class! The instructors do a great job with this age group and we have been quite impressed. Well ran dojo as well.
My son started at CH Quest Martial Arts almost ten years ago when he was a rising second grader. I don't even have the words to express what an amazing business (more of a dojo family than a business!) this is. My son has learned not only martial arts but also excellent life skills and values that will serve him forever. The instructors are skilled, dedicated, and genuinely care about their students (of all ages!). The owners teach/work at the dojo and genuinely care about their staff. Due to this rare combination, my son has had the same instructors for 10 years which is unheard of at most businesses! I can't recommend CH Quest Martial Arts highly enough!
I started training at Chapel Hill Quest Martial Arts a couple years ago and have been blown away by the quality of instruction and welcoming atmosphere. Quest Martial Arts specializes in to-shin do ninjutsu, a continuation of the ninja tradition adapted for modern contexts and application. Their instructors are patient and attentive, and the curriculum is designed to challenge students of all levels. I appreciate that they offer a curriculum that emphasizes physical training as well as holistic mindfulness, and I've noticed significant improvements in my strength, flexibility, and overall fitness since I started training here. Frequent practice of randori/sparring builds confidence in being able to actually use skills learned in a tense, realistic scenario.
In addition to their to-shin do program, Quest Martial Arts also has a growing BJJ program that is focused on the Japanese traditions. I've found that training in both to-shin do and jiu jitsu has helped me develop a more well-rounded defensive skill set.
Finally, their QuestKick kickboxing-inspired fitness classes will push you to your limit and provide the opportunity to develop strength in your punches and kicks, which can be difficult if just sparring. It's been an accessible introduction to boxing, and I appreciate that the warm-up and cool-down activities are always different to keep things fun and interesting.
One thing that really stands out about Quest Martial Arts is their emphasis on community and inclusivity. They offer family-friendly classes for students of all ages and skill levels, and everyone is treated with respect and kindness. Many of my adult classmates train while their children simultaneously study an age-appropriate version of the same lesson at the same time on the other side of the mat. Students of a variety of body types, genders, and sexualities feel comfortable training here together, something special when other martial arts gyms can often be overly macho spaces.
Overall, I would highly recommend Quest Martial Arts to anyone looking for a top-notch martial arts school. Their to-shin do, BJJ, and QuestKick programs are excellent, and the instructors and students are all welcoming and supportive. Give Quest Martial Arts a try – you won't regret it!
Quest Martial Arts has been a great way for me to achieve my physical goals and support my wellbeing. From day one, the community been supportive and welcoming. The classes are challenging and students are held to high expectations, but the instruction is patient, kind, and individualized. Other students are encouraging and want to see me improve as I do for them. Most of all, it's fun and motivating and I have developed great friendships since joining over a year and a half ago.
This gym has a fantastic instructor, a clean and welcoming environment, and a lot of regulars! Despite there being other gyms closer to me, I drive over 30 minutes just to train here because of these reasons.
Awesome Dojo , you will not find a better place to begin your practice in martial arts. It is by far the best adult friendly place you will find. As one of their oldest students, I have the upmost respect for the management, the instructors and volunteer trainers. I have been involved for the last eight years. The first year for me was by far the most difficult. I am grateful to those caring individuals like Brett, John, Anthony, Michael Hardy, who are always there helping to make this old man’s experience in the Dojo a positive one. I know I am not their most enlightened student, but like a cat I keep coming back. The bottom line if you’ve ever thought about taking martial arts whether you are 30 40 50, or above 60 like myself, it’s never too late to start and why not start with going to the best Dojo in this area . They are known for their premier youth programs, and have done an exceptional job, providing the under 18 an awesome experience in martial arts but in my opinion, where they really have excelled where no other Dojo has done, is in the area of providing an exceptional adult friendly experience, which will not be found anywhere locally. Chapel Hill quest Martial Arts gets a gazillion stars from me!
I first left a 5-star review after training with Chapel Hill Quest Martial Arts for about 2 years. I've now been training there for more than a decade, and everything has gotten better--despite the fact that I've gotten older!
I could tell within the first week of watching my child's classes that the instructors were teaching at a very high level (and indeed even higher than I could appreciate at the time). Soon, I too was a white belt and learning the secrets of the Ninja, which go far beyond mere technique.
Group classes helped me develop the skills I needed to make it to Black Belt and beyond. Later on, private lessons enhanced that journey further. I'm now a 3rd-degree blackbelt, as well as once again a white belt (in Jiujitsu). There is no better place to both practice mastery as well as learning something completely new (and perhaps a little intimidating). Such is the range of the teachers, the art, and the community. If you see my on the mat and have any questions, please ask!
One of the best communities you’ll find in Chapel Hill! Everyone is encouraging and supportive as well as motivating and positive. Mr. Hardee, Mr. Brett and Mr. Justin are all amazing instructors. All the classes offer something different and are suitable for all ages, shapes and sizes. You should check a class out and unleash YOUR potential.
I drove up from Charlotte for Winter Quest and cannot say enough about the staff and facility. Right away you are struck by the friendly and uplifting atmosphere that is apparently woven into the fabric of this dojo.
It also does not take long to realize that Mr. Merritt and the CHQ team are the real deal. Not only are every one of these folks clearly gifted in and passionate about their art, but also possess the rare ability to inspire passion and nurture talent in their students.
I’m sold and I’ll be back as often as I am able. Thank you CHQ for the gracious hospitality and a memorable experience!
It is an amazing place for kids to learn discipline, develop self-confidence and self-control while having crazy fun. I highly recommend all their programs.
Been a member of this Dojo for over a year. Everyone of the trainers are polite and make sure that you feel comfortable. This place is the real deal since they offer far more then just the martial art side of things. You can also go to the kickboxing, conditioning, women's self defense, meditation and Yoga classes all under the same roof. Where they really shine is with the kids. My 8 year old daughter attends and loves it.
Having been burned by previous martial arts experiences, I was skeptical about this place at first.
This place is real. They aren't just looking to get your money.
Chapel Hill Quest Center teaches practical modern self defense. Not only do they offer classes in To Shin Do Ninjutsu, they also teach BJJ as well as daily cardio kickboxing classes. Weekly meditation classes are offered as well.
The friendly and knowledgeable staff has been training my entire family for the last 11 years.
This school is consistently ranked as a community favorite and has earned the award "Best in the Triangle for Martial Arts" by The Independent multiple times.
I love the number of seminars they hold as well. In the last few months they have hosted Anshu Stephen K. Hayes, Professor Roy Dean, and other world class martial artists.
Between the expertise of the administrative staff, the instructors, and the amazing students, this is the place my family and I call home.
Please come check it out. I look forward to training with you!
So glad that I found this place! They are all so friendly and welcoming and the dojo is clean and sanitized regularly. Hardee is a great instructor (and owner)! Come join the variety of classes offered, you will love it!
The Quest Center is a great place to learn martial arts in and open, positive, diverse, and welcoming environment. 10 out of 10, everyone should go there.
Getting into martial arts has been on of the best decisions I’ve made! I chose Quest over other places because of the variety, the care the instructors have for their students, and the family that you grow into. Have recommended many times and will continue to do so!
It is hard to put into words what an amazing sense of community, family, support, accomplishment, and value one feels training at the Chapel Hill Quest Center. From the Instructors to the front staff, as well as fellow students, the atmosphere is welcoming with a clear emphasis on helping each other achieve their goals and grow together. The curriculum is well-suited for today's unique self-defense environment while also relying on a rich history and tradition. It is evident from all of the Instructors that they truly want you to Unleash Your Potential and, like the technical elements of their art, they have mastered how to skillfully teach to meet the needs and experience of beginners without compromising the efficacy and effectiveness of this martial art. We are so grateful to study and learn at Chapel Hill Quest Martial Arts and highly recommend whether you are a beginner with no martial arts experience, or someone who has a lengthy history in other martial arts training.
This dojo has created such a loving and caring community. The teachers are great, they really care about teaching, and they care about each and every person at this dojo. After a while, they don't just become your instructors, they also become your friends, and even your second family. I have been going to this dojo for 7 or 8 years at this point, and I've definitely made life-long friendships. They have a great cardio-kickboxing class, they have a good jujitsu class, and they have classes for all ages. I truly recommend this place.
Fantastic dojo with extremely skilled and experienced teachers. Uplifting and positive environment that is welcoming to all, great place for both kids and adults.
This is the best place. The community it fosters turns into a caring family. My kids all started at 4 and eventually I joined. The understanding of my physical ailments but still pushing me to my physical and mental limits with respect. Not everyone can do this. 5 years later I dont think my family will ever go anywhere else.
InstructorsFacilityAtmosphere
Posted 5 years ago
Roseana Matthews
This is the best place. The community it fosters turns into a caring family. My kids all started at 4 and eventually I joined. The understanding of my physical ailments but still pushing me to my physical and mental limits with respect. Not everyone can do this. 5 years later I dont think my family will ever go anywhere else.
I attend the fitness kickboxing classes off and on for a few years before finally trying out one of the martial arts classes. I had been in search of a movement discipline for a while and this was not only the most enjoyable, but also the best deal (trust me, I did the math). Through the pandemic, the staff has gone above and beyond to encourage students to continue training, and has provided SO many resources and opportunities for us to workout and continue to grow. The flexibility and adaptability of the instructors, management, and staff has been inspiring, and such a great source for me personally through this strange year.
Chapel Hill Quest has fantastic offerings for martial arts training and fitness. I have been a member since 2016 and regularly attend the ninjutsu, jiu jitsu, and fitness classes. The instructors are both fun and professional. The members form a great community of kids, adults, and whole families. I highly recommend trying a class. You will get hooked and wonder why you did not start sooner.
Over the years, about 6, I have watched as our grandson and son have trained at Quest, each year becoming more and more skilled and confident in their skills. Watching the trainers handle the students, meeting their training and educational needs, has left me quite impressed with their professionalism and spirit. Even with Covid, they still continue their excellent training skills to improve their students confidence. Love Chapel Hill Quest Martial Arts!
My nephew started Mighty Dragons following disappointing starts at practically everything involving a ball and immediately found his home... so much so that, just a little over six years later, he will soon be a black belt. I appreciate that it's not just about learning new moves and earning belts but also about setting and working toward goals, personal responsibility and sound judgement. The instructors care for the individual, encouraging my nephew and everyone there to keep pushing and to achieve their very best, at the dojo and in life. I recommend Quest to all my friends in the area.
The Chapel Hill Quest Center is a terrific place to train in Ninjitsu, and get a great work out (cardio, kickboxing)! The instructors are world class, the atmosphere is really welcoming and the people who train there create an exceptional community! They have done an outstanding job with COVID, and have a great balance of on line and in person options to meet you where you are at!
Amazing community, fun learning environment, cool martial arts, a glimpse into historical Japanese culture. After 8 years of of being a Quest ninja this is still one of my favorite places to be.
The Chapel Hill Quest Center is the perfect place to train! Whether you’re looking for a new hobby, self defense skills, or a new exercise routine, the Quest Center has what you’re looking for! The staff is super knowledgeable and professional. Regardless of your reason for practicing martial arts, the Chapel Hill Quest Center will not disappoint!
I have been studying martial arts at Quest for 5 years. It has become my second home and the teachers are very much a part of my family. The balance between having fun, getting a great workout, and learning a very hands-on and practical self-defense martial art is what keeps me fully engaged.
When Covid-19 hit, our Quest Martial Arts world was turned upside down like so many pieces of our lives. Quest has worked extremely hard in keeping an almost full schedule of online classes available to members. With restrictions starting to be lifted in our area, online and in-person classes are becoming more available and in an extremely safe environment. The Quest community is very strong and has been a huge factor in my staying sane during the past 6 months. I can't say enough about how the owners (Rachel and Hardee) and instructors (Bryan, Justin, Nicki and Brett) have kept life moving forward as best as possible.
We have been a Quest family since my son was old enough to start Mighty Dragons. Soon after, my husband started training as well. We have found a community there that is supportive--a true second family. The training is exceptional, and the instructors are phenomenal friends to my husband and role models for my son.
Chapel Hill Quest Martial Arts is a special place. My son started in the Mighty Dragons program in 2014 (that's him hanging upside down with Mr. Justin not too long after he started), and I started training in 2017. One of the best decisions we've made!
When I started it had been... a while since I had done anything like this and I was concerned it wouldn't be a good fit. I couldn't have been more wrong! This has been an amazing opportunity to connect with my son and work on my own fitness. And it's To-shin Do ninjutsu. Who doesn't want to be a ninja?
This is an interesting time, and we've been so impressed by how the staff has adapted to continue to provide meaningful and much needed martial arts and fitness classes while we were stuck at home. With the opportunities CHQMA has provided, my son and I have been able to continue our training together during COVID. It has been pretty awesome having a training buddy at home. Mr. Hardee, the other instructors, and the staff are focused on health, safety, and student comfort level as the state starts to re-open and are actively adapting to the conditions to keep the dojo community connected and growing together.
The staff is warm, welcoming, and knowledgeable. The martial arts and fitness classes are a great value at affordable rates. If you're at all considering martial arts or fitness classes, try a class at Chapel Hill Quest Martial Arts!
I have been a Quest Member since the early 2000's and the staff has always been excellent. The dojo itself is very family oriented. I have know the owner Hardee for years and he has helped me out and even my kids when they were younger taking classes. Fast forward time to last year (2019) I was involved in a car accident that almost took my life and the Quest Community was amazing from the staff to other students. I was in the hospital for 106 days and they set up basically a visiting team to come sit with me so me and my family weren't in this alone. They also did alot of other miscellaneous things as well to help my family. They did a fundraiser to help with my medical bills, where they worked along with a few other martial art schools to conduct it. So if you are thinking about training in a martial arts family oriented school this is the place. Love you guys...
My entire family of 5 trains at the Chapel Hill Quest Center. We consider it to be one of the best things we have ever discovered. The quality of curriculum and instruction is amazing, providing fun and valuable learning for us all. The fitness classes are adaptable to any level of ability and are welcoming to beginners and veterans alike. The community of instructors and students is incredibly supportive, enthusiastically reveling in each others successes both in and outside the dojo. This is an incredible place that fosters personal growth in fun and encouraging ways.
Chapel Hill Quest Martial Arts is a very special place to learn martial arts in the Triangle area. It really does live up to its tagline of "Unleash Your Potential" not only physically but mentally, and as a better human being.
I have been a student here for many years and to keep someone engaged and coming back multiple times a week year after year should speak loudly to the environment provided here. There are amazing opportunities here for anyone at any level.
I also think even more than the quality instruction, the community is probably the dojos biggest asset. There are just a great group of people to train with. No pressure, no attitude.
If you are thinking about training in martial arts, getting fit, overcoming yourself, or any other reason you may have for wanting to better not only yourself but those around you, I HIGHLY recommend Chapel Hill Quest Martial Arts.
Not only has Chapel Hill Quest Martial Arts taught me how to defend myself, but also in my time studying at this school I have learned valuable life skills such as the importance of being aware of my surroundings, how to use my voice as my most powerful line of defense, and to be confident and believe in myself. I have studied here for 8 years and have found it to be fun at all ages. I highly recommend it to everyone!
What a great place! The classes are fun and the instructors, for both the martial arts and fitness classes, are excellent! You don't need to have any prior martial arts experience or natural athleticism to start training. The instructors do a fantastic job of meeting students where they are. I find the whole dojo community incredibly supportive and am so glad to be a part of it.
I came here for the Quest Kick and Quest Fit classes, which involve kickboxing, cardio, strength and endurance training, among others. I needed something engaging, fun and tough that was going to motivate me through fitness and wellness. I needed to relieve my stress from law school and from being a new mom, and Chapel Hill Quest was perfect for my goals. I could not have had a better experience starting off in a gym in a new city.
The instructors I’ve had here are so knowledgeable, motivational, and downright hilarious. I’ve gotten to know Hardee, Justin, Brett and Bryan, and each have their own teaching styles and I really enjoyed learning from all of them. The way they interact with the students, both adult and children, is endearing and professional. They know everyone’s name, which is very impressive. Everyone is genuinely happy to be here and the vibe is awesome. The students that I have gotten to know are also super welcoming, and it helped me stay motivated to keep on coming!
The membership is very affordable and worth every penny. Every time I exit the dojo, I feel refreshed and energized. The dojo itself is always clean and sanitized and the instructors and staff do a great job making the dojo look amazing and smell like fresh incense! I will miss this place now that I am moving back home to the west coast. I feel like I have gained a family and you will too.
This is such an amazing and supportive community! My child feels incredibly comfortable in class and takes a lot of pride in the lessons learned. The teachers are outstandig and have done such an incredible job instilling confidence and determination in the students.
With two children in the dojo in the mighty dragons class. They make us feel like family and not clients. My kids are learning how to defend themselves and having fun too.
Nothing short of excellent. The staff and fellow students are incredibly supportive. Excellent real world self defense training. Great for all ability levels, and a wonderful community.
Kickboxing classes are absolutely phenomenal; the must fun and hardest cardio/strength workout you'll do. The people there are even better. They treat everyone like family and are truly invested in your health, well being, and life. Can't say enough about how great Quest is.
Quest is such an amazing place with great instructors and staff! I took the QuestFit and the Quest kickboxing class and had the best experience! I had never tried kickboxing before and the instructor Kelly was so wonderful! There is such a good atmosphere at Quest. The staff is so kind and cheery it puts you in a good mood as soon as you walk through the door. The members of Quest are equally amazing! Everyone is so friendly and encouraging. I learned so many new exercises and stretches taking QuestFit and kickboxing was a blast! The classes are such a good workout! They are so fun but also so challenging, the perfect mix. I was only in town for a month but met so many great people at Quest and if I return I would definitely become a member there!
I started training at the Chapel Hill Quest Center almost two years ago and let me say that you won't find a better martial arts school anywhere. By taking advantage of their To-Shin Do Ninjutsu curriculum, as well as their QuestKick and QuestFit fitness opportunities, I have lost 30(!) pounds and am in the best shape of my life. Mr. Merritt and his talented team of instructors are extremely capable and knowledgeable, and they genuinely care about their students and the progress that they make. In addition, I have never seen little kids have as much fun as they do during the Mighty Dragons classes - it is a blast to watch. This dojo has a powerful, vibrant community in which the members look out for one another and you can physically feel the positive energy that permeates the place. I highly recommend the Chapel Hill Quest Center to anyone who has an interest in practical real-world self-defense, personal fitness, or the legacy of the Art of the Ninja.
Fantastic staff to deal with. Mr. Hardee went above and beyond while working with my son helping him work through some techniques to make sure he really understood it. I would highly recommend checking them out.
We've been bringing our 6-yr old son here for a few months now. The program emphasizes discipline, physical fitness, and self-esteem. The instructors are magic with kids. Our son is committed, engaged, and we could not be happier.
We have found the perfect fit for our entire family at Chapel Hill Quest Martial Arts. We are a family of four and when our oldest turned seven we began our search for a martial arts school for him. For several months we tried, but found it difficult to find a school that felt sincere and true to their martial art. Then, we were introduced to the Quest Center when friends held a birthday party there. Right away, we enrolled our 8 year old in the Youth Ninjitsu program and our 5 year old in the Mighty Dragons program. Classes at the Quest Center quickly became a highlight of the week.
The Mighty Dragons program is something that I wish every kid could experience. The instructors are all- around incredible and are so clearly adored and respected by these youngest students. The kids love these classes because it feels like 30 minutes of different imaginative games each lesson. The best part is that, at the same time, they are learning and developing skills with very real benefits. They are learning to show confidence in their body and their voice. They are learning to focus and to be respectful to others. They are even learning history and Japanese vocabulary.
We then can see with our oldest, how the Youth Ninjistsu program expands on the same core lessons in this traditional belt progression program. Again, the instructors are outstanding. One of the things I appreciate most about all of the instructors at Chapel Hill Quest is that they are closely connected to the founder of the martial art that they teach and are continuously in pursuit of gaining more knowledge and skill themselves. In this way, students are inspired to see that there is no end to one’s potential; that there will always be more opportunities to learn and grow. Students also see that, no matter your belt color or skill level, this is a community of people who all play an important role in helping each other to advance and succeed.
The boys enjoy their classes so much and I (Mom) enjoy this community of people so much that I decided to try one of the Quest fitness classes. Now Quest Kick is my very favorite thing. The workout is awesome but no matter how exhausted I am, I end every single class already looking forward to the next one.
My husband started out just watching each class and soon decided that this is the time and the place to work toward a longtime goal of his: to train in martial arts. Now, he is enrolled as an Adult Ninjitsu student. He is enthusiastic about the training for himself, but it is even more meaningful and rewarding for him to be training together with our boys.
So, that means that all four of us are now enrolled in classes at the Quest Center. We are so thankful to be part of such a supportive community and a positive experience.
…and they also host the best birthday parties in town!
I'm in my 20s and started at the Quest center on a whim when I wanted to try kickboxing. I was quickly sucked into the rest of the martial arts classes they offer and fell in love. Quest really is a community, full of people of all ages and many families. Everyone is nice and supportive. The martial arts instruction is excellent. Every instructor is wonderful in their own way and each bring something different to the table. The martial art Quest practices - To-Shin Do - will teach you practical real-world self-defense skills. These skills of course focus on physical defenses, but also extend into things like situational awareness and how to deescalate conflicts before they get to the point of physical confrontation. They also teach a women's self-defense class once a week that I really like. Quest is a fantastic place and I can't recommend it enough.
At 4 years old my daughter was the “I can’t do it” kid. I signed her up for the Mighty Dragons class at the Chapel Hill Quest Center and talked to the instructors about her lack of confidence. They worked with her and shortly after I began hearing things from her like, “I can’t do it, but Mr. Justin (one of the instructors) would say I should try”. Pretty soon that turned into “I don’t think I can do it, but I will try anyway” and then “I can’t do it” disappeared from her vocabulary all together.
Similarly, she was very shy. She would hide behind my leg whenever meeting someone new. I, again, spoke with the instructors who told me to encourage her to stand in the ninjutsu strong stance whenever she felt shy. When I told her the idea she dismissed it, but the next time we met someone new I looked down to see her beside me, instead of behind me, and standing in her strong stance.
The Chapel Hill Quest Center has done wonders for improving my daughter’s self-confidence and self-esteem. Now, at 6 years old, she doesn’t hesitate to try new things and easily goes up to new people to introduce herself. I tell her she’s awesome all the time but, coming from her parent, that only goes so far. The Quest Center makes her feel awesome and that has made all the difference.
Chapel Hill Quest center is a great place to train. They offer martial arts training as well as several fitness classes, cardio kickboxing, fitness and ground tactics. My wife and I both attend and love it. Everyone is so nice and helpful. If your in doubt, don't be. Try it and you'll see what I mean.
I've been here for 8 years (half my life) and the Quest Center continues to be a place of learning, humor, and motivation for me. The supportive community found in the Quest Center is unmatched by any other martial arts school in the area. Regardless of age, everyone receives incredible instruction. The fact that a 16 year old is actually leaving a review for something should tell you how special this place is. Try it out and see.
I'd been training at the Chapel Hill Quest Martial Arts for almost five and a half years and I love it! You have lots of options here that are available whether it's martial arts training, cardio kickboxing, strength and conditioning, birthday parties, etc. The instructors are great! What makes this place so special is the community. It's like a family! Come on and join in and be part of this!
I have been training at Chapel Hill Quest Center for over 2 years now and have really enjoyed my experience. Aside from getting excellent exercise and body awareness, I have gained a strong support network of fantastic people. I have trained at a lot of other dojos and I have never been with a group that so thoroughly supports one another in their training and in life. That is what sets this place apart, really connected community.
WOW! My daughter and I have studied here for 6 years, earning black belts. It has been a great experience to share with her and with all the families that make this more than a gym, a fun and caring community. The martial arts programs are highly challenging and tough but paced so that I was always comfortable that I would succeed- the upper levels are fierce! And I love studying about how martial arts have shaped historical times and how the principles apply in business and current politics.
Highly recommend giving this center a long deep tryout!
We love this studio so much that it really played a factor in a moving choices. The teachers really love their jobs and it shows by the way they interact with every person (participant or not).
I looked at all of the local martial arts schools for myself and my son and the Quest Center is the best. The curriculum is practical, fun, and everyone from kids to grandparents can expect to make real measurable progress towards their goals. The training is rooted in more than 900 years of ninja tradition with a strong focus on useful skills for the modern world. In addition to specific martial arts skills, the Quest Center also offers intense cardio kickboxing classes, grappling classes, and meditation practice. If you are considering martial arts training for yourself or your kids, I highly recommend you go to the Quest Center and see it for yourself.