Laird’s Academy of Martial Arts

Laird’s Academy of Martial Arts offers a Martial Arts Summer Camp for Kids where participants practice martial arts, learn how to deal with bullies, make good choices, and learn the importance of having a positive attitude. The program focuses on Korean Martial Arts, especially Ho Kuk Mu Sul, and includes elements of Hapkido (joint locks), Judo (throwing/falling), Tae Kwon Do (kicking/punching), Kung Fu (flowing circular attacks), Tai Chi (Ki training), and cardio classes. The program also includes practical self defense while standing, on the ground, against weapons, and against multiple attackers, as well as pressure point attacks.

• Ages: 5–18 years old
• Schedule: Five day camp
• Price: $300.00

Ho Kuk Mu Sul at Laird’s Academy of Martial Arts is described as a hard/soft style of martial arts that is as beautiful to watch as it is efficient to use and incorporates the principles of Flowing Water (Yu), Harmony (Hwa), and the Circle (Won). All classes are all ages and all levels, classes are ongoing with continuous enrollment, and families can sign up for martial arts classes online, including the option to try a class for free. The program offers monthly and yearly agreements, and participants are asked to come in clean workout clothes, with gym shoes optional for cardio classes.

The stated mission of Laird’s Academy of Martial Arts is to help students improve their lifestyles by developing their body, mind, and character to the maximum of their potential. The owner, Michael Laird, is a Master in HKMS, a 3rd Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do, and has 6 years of Jiu Jitsu experience, 7 years of wrestling experience, and training in Silat with Mike Roberto. He has continued to study under Master Jin since 1992 and is an approved contract PE instructor for many local schools. He also teaches self defence for Santa Cruz County Schools and SC Parks and Recreation. In his own words, he describes teaching martial arts as his passion, explains that he tailors his teaching to each student’s personal needs, and states that a positive attitude with a commitment to self improvement and self exploration is the basis for beginning training.

Last updated April 8, 2026.