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Awards

2012 Best of Ellicott City Award for Martal Arts Activities
2020 Best of Ellicott City Award for Martal Arts Activities

Blue Mountain has been recognized multiple times over the years, receiving both the 2012 and 2020 Best of Ellicott City Awards for Martial Arts Activities.  Read below to see some of what our students have had to say.

Testimonials

Amanda

I began taking Taekwondo and Haidong Gumdo (Korean sword fighting) because gyms are boring and I wanted something more mentally engaging with measurable goals. I first checked into Blue Mountain Martial Arts because it is located in my beautiful home town, and I like to patronize local businesses. After a private class with instructor John Jacobs, I decided to start attending the regular group classes. I find the Haidong Gumdo to be particularly invigorating, and the Taekwondo is awesome exercise.


At first, I struggled with some of the physical tasks (because I don't usually do formal exercise), but I am getting stronger and improving my form every week. Mr. Jacobs runs a traditional class that teaches about the history and purpose of the moves, not just the how-to. He also varies the class content from week to week, and he adjusts the pace as needed.


Our group of students is a great one. I really felt it at our belt test, when everyone was encouraging and supportive. Some of us get together to practice on weekends in a scenic park. Some people take the class with their kids. Everyone is made to feel welcome.


One last thing: this is a value with flexible payment plans and varying levels of commitment. I looked at one place that wanted me to pay a year's contract at ~$345/3 months. Yikes!

Karmin

Master Jacobs has made such an impact on the lives of our children and family.  Our daughter has truly found her kicks with Taekwondo. 

Todd

I love being a part of Blue Mountain Martial Arts (Ellicott City). It is a small, tight yet very welcoming community. I would describe the training atmosphere as very supportive. Our focus is on being the best not the biggest.

Chris

Since I have been studying with Blue Mountain Martial Arts for almost 2 years now I still cannot find anything I do not like. When I was first interested in studying a martial arts form I wanted something that wasn’t mainstream.  Because for me, mainstream schools are more about the money than the art itself, I can honestly say that since I have been with Blue Mountain I have not seen anything that distracts from Master Jacobs’ true focus and passion, which is the art of Haidong Gumdo. 


The sword art itself is very easy on the body with many variations that can be used to accommodate one’s own body, or in my case injuries that prevent or hinder me from doing some things.  It’s also my belief that because of this it allows for some older students to attend and practice with us as well. One of the things that also stood out to me when I first started what that Master Jacobs also communicated to one of the senior students in sign language (ASL).


We have performed for several festivals in the DC area in the past 2 years, as well as several tournaments on the east coast.


With all that I can honestly recommend Blue Mountain Martial Arts to anyone who is looking to study a martial art no matter the age or ability level.  We are a very close knit and welcoming group of people.

Mike

Blue Mountain is one of the best martial arts schools that I have attended. The instruction is excellent and Master Jacobs is extremely knowledgeable. The atmosphere is very welcoming and the classes are a great workout. Plus it is one of the few schools that teach the Korean sword art, Haidong Gumdo.

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