TAC Karate & Fitness
Kids
Children's Karate
Our Children's Karate program teaches traditional Shorin-Ryu karate in a fun, structured environment. Kids build discipline, focus, confidence, and real self-defense skills while getting a great workout.
Achieve fitness, self-defense, and personal growth with over 40 years of martial arts excellence. Traditional Shorin-Ryu karate, cardio kickboxing, self-defense, and weapons training for all ages at our Stony Island Ave location.
Every student. Every goal. Every belt. We're here every step of the way.
Welcome to TAC Karate & Fitness, where we are dedicated to helping you achieve physical, mental, and spiritual growth through martial arts. Our experienced instructors offer a range of classes, from Shorin-Ryu karate to cardio kickboxing, tailored for all ages and skill levels. Join our supportive community and embark on a journey of self-improvement, discipline, and confidence at our Stony Island Ave studio on Chicago's South Side.
Hanshi, 10th Degree Black Belt & World Champion
Larry C. Tankson, Hanshi, is a World Champion and 10th Degree Black Belt who began training in Chicago on September 10, 1969, at the age of 13. He studied Goju-Ryu, Shorei-Goju, Shorei Ryu, and Tae Kwon Do before developing his own American Shorin-Ryu curriculum, earning multiple black belt ranks along the way. A former No. 1 ranked lightweight fighter in the country and NBL sparring World Champion, Tankson opened his first dojo, Tankson Martial Arts Academy Ltd., in 1981 and has spent over 40 years producing champions and building character in students of all ages.
We don't just teach Karate — we build better people.
Our certified instructors are hands-on and genuinely invested in every student's growth — in technique and in character. With a 5.0-star Google rating and 45 years serving Chicago, our results speak for themselves.
From young kids to adults, complete beginners to returning martial artists — everyone feels at home at TAC Karate & Fitness. This is a family, not just a gym.
Parents and students report improvements in focus, confidence, and discipline within the first 30–60 days. Our structured curriculum ensures every student progresses at every level.
Five age-specific programs — from Tiny Champs (ages 3–4) to Adult Martial Arts (ages 18+).
Our Children's Karate program teaches traditional Shorin-Ryu karate in a fun, structured environment. Kids build discipline, focus, confidence, and real self-defense skills while getting a great workout.
Our Adult's Karate program offers expert instruction in traditional Shorin-Ryu karate for all skill levels — build strength, discipline, and practical self-defense skills in a supportive, motivating environment.
Elevate your fitness routine with high-energy cardio kickboxing. Our classes incorporate martial arts techniques and cardiovascular exercise for a dynamic workout that challenges both body and mind while teaching real self-defense.
Equip yourself with practical self-defense skills for real-life situations. Our comprehensive training builds the confidence and ability to protect yourself and your loved ones with techniques that are easy to remember and apply under pressure.
Explore the traditional art of martial arts weaponry, including the bo staff, nunchaku, and sai. Our weapons training emphasizes proper technique and safety, deepening students' discipline and mastery of the art.
Three easy steps to your first class — no experience required.
Click the button below or call us at (773) 684-8500 to reserve your free intro session at a time that works for you.
Arrive in comfortable workout clothes. We'll give you a tour, introduce you to the team, and guide you through your first class.
If you love it — and you will — we'll find the perfect program and membership that fits your goals, schedule, and budget.
No commitment. No experience needed. Just show up.
Take the first step toward the best version of yourself. Book your free trial or get our full pricing and schedule sent directly to you.