Empowering Lives Through Martial Arts
For close to four decades, Azad's Martial Arts Center has been the premier destination for martial arts training in Chico, California and throughout Butte County. Founded in 1985 by Grandmaster Azad, our center has empowered over 21,000 students through physical fitness, mental growth, personal empowerment, and positive citizenship.
Our programs emphasize not just martial arts technique, but civic duty, community service, commitment to sustainability, educational excellence, and building strong character. From our youngest students starting at age 3 to our senior Tai Chi practitioners, every student is treated with care and coached toward their full potential.

Our Values
40 Years of Excellence
A 10-time 'Best of Chico' award winner with nearly four decades of proven results in martial arts education for all ages.
Community First
21,000+ students empowered through training that emphasizes civic duty, community service, and positive citizenship alongside martial arts.
Complete Development
Physical fitness, mental growth, personal empowerment, and educational excellence — our programs develop the whole person, not just the fighter.
All Ages Welcome
From age 3 to seniors, with programs tailored for every stage of life. Conveniently located in downtown Chico.
Meet Our Instructors
Led by Grandmaster Azad with 40+ years of martial arts experience and multiple black belt rankings across numerous disciplines.

"Martial arts is a vehicle for personal empowerment — physical fitness, mental growth, civic duty, and positive citizenship are all part of the journey."
— Grandmaster Azad
Grandmaster Azad founded Azad's Martial Arts Center in 1985 and has since empowered over 21,000 students across Chico and Butte County. Holding multiple black belt rankings and with over 40 years of martial arts experience, he developed specialized systems including Jongshindo and ShimKenDo. His vision extends beyond technique — emphasizing physical fitness, mental growth, personal empowerment, civic duty, community service, and educational excellence.




