Satori Academy of Martial Arts, Cranford

Satori Academy of Martial Arts's head instructor Nancy Walzog single-handedly challenges the traditional archetype of the stoic, sinewy sensei. As a mother and teacher, she understands the powerful impact such a study can have, both in and out of the gym. Far from plucking flies from the air with chopsticks or barking orders at new recruits, she and fellow teachers create a welcoming environment. Her classes blend techniques from Kenpo Karate, kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, taekwondo, and other martial arts forms into comprehensive self-defense lessons. In keeping with the accomodation theme, the studio allows members to drop into almost any class on the schedule, although some require experience with certain techniques and at least one unarmed victory over a dragon.