NEW CLASSES AND INTRO SPECIALS!
Benefits of Martial Arts
Martial Arts are an exercise with a bonus!
Learn to defend yourself while getting in great shape. Get in great shape and you'll relieve stress.
Our emphasis on mind – body training goes far beyond the benefits of standard health club type exercise programs.
Physically, martial arts develops self-respect, self-discipline, self-confidence, physical fitness, physical flexibility, mental flexibility, and a host of other desirable outcomes including greater agility, balance, and control.
Socially, martial arts develops respect, camaraderie, and self-control through the practice of self-discipline and respectful partner work.
Whether your goal is increased agility, balance, self-confidence, self-defense skills, personal development, or to challenge yourself to learn something new or earn a black belt — we can help you get there.
We have multiple programs, classes, and styles to fit every learner.
Our Programs
Karate
Karate is a great discipline for building children’s (and adults’) self-esteem…
Our belt system is one key to building confidence. When students understand what to do to earn their next rank, they are able to set reasonable goals, giving them a great sense of ownership and accomplishment. We stress, however, more internal aspects of martial arts. We enforce our rules and monitor behavior in class, and we expect the same good behavior at home and in school. While providing a positive outlet for kids to channel some of their excess energy, our program stresses the importance of self-control and respect.
Other Programs
TAI CHI CHUAN and QIGONG (CHI KUNG):
Tai Chi and Qigong (Chi Kung) are popular meditative movements for everyone, including those with health or mobility issues…
Tai Chi is an ancient martial art characterized by slow, graceful, meditative movements and is renowned for its health benefits (improving strength, balance, agility, and overall well-being).
We teach Tai Chi classes for health and advanced classes in weaponry and martial applications. Whether you want to practice solo forms and Qigong (moving, mediative exercises) or engage in two-person Push Hands and Martial Applications, our school can meet your needs. Join the millions of happy, healthy people around the globe who have made Tai Chi and Qigong an integral part of their wellness routine.
Start Your Journey
Instructor
Master Roland J. Lavigne, Jr., MSEd. is a master of two martial arts systems. He holds the highest level teaching diploma from the William C. C. Chen School of Tai Chi Chuan and holds a fifth degree black belt in Pukulan Kilat Pentjak Silat under Master Jim DeVoe, the Cemo Sai Temple, and the Institute of Pentjak Silat.
Master Lavigne owns and operates Eight Star Martial Arts/Red Dragon Karate School in Ballston Spa, New York — teaching Yang Style Tai Chi Chuan, Pentjak Silat, and Qigong.
Day Camps and Summer Camps
Day Camps and Summer Camps
Day Camps and Summer Camps
Join us over school breaks for movement and fun!
Demonstration Team
Day Camps and Summer Camps
Day Camps and Summer Camps
Yellow sashes and higher may join demo team!
Birthday Parties
Day Camps and Summer Camps
Birthday Parties
Celebrate your special day with us!
Tournaments
Self-Defense Workshops
Birthday Parties
Our students participate in tournaments around New York State and Canada. Check our monthly calendar for information.
Self-Defense Workshops
Self-Defense Workshops
Self-Defense Workshops
Self-defense is about situational awareness and gross motor skills. Learn basic strategies to protect and empower yourself and your loved ones. The simple techniques taught in these workshops are effective, devastating, and easy to remember under pressure. Check out our monthly calendar for workshop offerings.
Seminars
Self-Defense Workshops
Self-Defense Workshops
Master Lavigne teaches seminars nationally and internationally. Students and their families are encouraged to join him, learn from other world class instructors, make new friends, and make memories which last a lifetime.. For upcoming seminars, see our current calendar.