Welcome
kick. breathe. smile.
Martial arts help develop every practitioner’s self-defense, self-esteem, discipline, and instills respect for others. The result of martial arts training is natural, effortless action, and the confidence, humility, openness and peace only possible through perfect unity of mind and body.
Martial arts is not only about physically training the body, but it is also about training the mind and spirit. There is a joy in training together, supporting each other, that bolsters the ability of each individual student.
IGNITE THE POWER INSIDE
A 1985 study found that children in martial arts have an increased sense of responsibili-
ty, and a higher sense of self-esteem.
You simply could not ask for better teachers!
WORLD CLASS INSTRUCTORS
Master Yu
Head Taekwondo Instructor
Master Yu brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our martial arts studio. With a background as a close combat specialist in the Republic of Korea Special Forces, he has honed his skills and discipline at the highest level. Having served as the Business Manager and Head Master at four Taekwondo schools, Master Yu has over 10 years of teaching experience. His mission is to inspire children to discover their passion for Taekwondo through encouragement, self-discipline, and personal growth. Under his guidance, our young members experience the thrill of breaking their first board, building self-confidence and joy with every accomplishment. Master Yu is dedicated to nurturing their progress, providing unwavering support and coaching as they advance to higher levels of mastery. We are proud to have Master Yu leading our team, where he continues to empower the next generation of martial artists.
Instructor Jose
Taekwondo Instructor
Instructor Jose has dedicated his life to Martial Arts! He loves nothing more than students hitting their goals and breaking the barriers to become the best version of themselves. Jose reached classes for all ages including private lessons and Kickboxing classes for adults. No matter the age of his students, Jose balances challenge with compassion as he pushes them to reach the next level.
Ms. Sophie
MAFS Manager
Sophie is a talented actress and singer based in New York City, dedicated to spreading joy and creativity among our young members. With years of experience in childcare and nannying, she has developed the enriching Playroom programming at MAFS, which includes engaging music classes and dynamic musical theatre camps. In her role as Studio Manager, Sophie combines her artistic passion with strong organizational and leadership skills. She excels at managing day-to-day operations, fostering a positive environment for both staff and students, and ensuring that each program runs smoothly and effectively. When she’s not leading the team, Sophie performs in shows across the country and in NYC, bringing her passion for the arts to life. Her enthusiasm and commitment to nurturing creativity in children, along with her business acumen, make her an invaluable part of our studio community.
Miss Alex
Music & Pre-Ballet Teacher
Alex is a vibrant NYC-based performer with a deep passion for arts education. With a BFA in Musical Theatre, she has explored a variety of music, acting, and dance styles, enriching her teaching approach. At MAFS, Alex is dedicated to spreading joy through music and movement. She has years of experience inspiring and entertaining children as a nanny, dance teacher, and theatre performer. Her enthusiasm is infectious, and she loves sharing her appreciation for the arts with babies, children, and even adults! Join Alex in our Pre-Ballet and Baby Music classes, where she creates a nurturing and joyful environment that encourages creativity and self-expression. She looks forward to inspiring the next generation of artists and helping them discover the magic of music and dance!
Sandra Herrera Sanchez
Our Founder
Our founder, Sandra Herrera Sanchez, is a mother of two young martial artists-in-training and also trains in kickboxing herself.
After three years of trying to organize martial arts classes for her children, her husband, and herself across multiple studios and programs, Sandra decided that there needed to be a centralized solution to offer martial arts and fitness to busy NYC families. After speaking with her son’s favorite instructors and other martial arts mothers, Martial Arts Family Studio was born.
Using her wide experience designing and leading community projects with children and teens with nonprofits both in Spain and USA, her background in Corporate Human Resources and years of kickboxing training, Sandra worked with other mothers to design a martial arts studio to address the needs of the family as a whole. Martial Arts Family Studio seeks to offer a wellness solution with an emphasis on martial arts training and fitness to improve not only the body, but the mind and the spirit as well.
Sandra was recognized in Marquis Who’s Who for her impeccable leadership at MAFS. Click here to read more!
