Beginner-friendly classes focusing on technique, conditioning, and self-defense in a supportive environment.
Gentle, flowing movements to improve balance, reduce stress, and enhance mindfulness for all experience levels.
Energy cultivation practices that promote relaxation, centering, and overall well-being through guided exercises.
Individualized feedback and instruction to help you refine skills and achieve personal fitness or martial arts goals.
Welcoming group activities and social interactions that foster a supportive network among students and instructors.
started tai chi/qigong classes this fall, about a month ago, and loving it!!!!! sifu jeff is awesome and it’s a great community of people! definitely recommend to anyone who wants to get into internal arts :)
I have had nothing but great experiences here at NWFA! The instructors are great and will answer questions before, during, and after class. They will coach you during drills so that you have feedback in the moment and you can be confident that you are focusing on your technique correctly. They will help with conditioning during class as well. I work retail and I find that the 8 pm class works best for my schedule. They give you a pair of gloves right after you sign up so that you can start right away. I recommend you get your own pair so that they fit you better but I like that you can start right away. The community is very welcoming and I have met some amazing people. I am not the social type of person but I have found that most members are easy to talk to and are willing to show you what they know if you ask, like wrapping your hands, or where to get fighting gear, or how to be better at kicking. Overall I have enjoyed every class and every moment I have had at NWFA, I enjoy being challenged and NWFA has done exactly that for my journey and my goals.
I started training at Northwest Fighting Arts a few months ago and It has already changed my life for the better. I walked in nervous, with very little martial arts experience, and was immediately put at ease by how welcoming and calm the environment is. There’s no ego, no intimidation—just a respectful, focused atmosphere that makes it easy to show up exactly as you are. The instructors are incredible with beginners. They don’t just demonstrate and move on—they actually teach. They break techniques down step by step, walk around giving individual feedback, and never make you feel silly for asking questions or making mistakes. Safety, good fundamentals, conditioning and respect are clearly their priorities, and it shows in how they run every class. The other students have been just as great. From day one, people introduced themselves, helped me with drills, and made me feel like part of the group. Classes are challenging in the best way—I leave sweaty, tired, and proud of myself. If you’re in Portland and thinking about trying martial arts for fitness, self-defense, or confidence, I can’t recommend Northwest Fighting Arts enough. As a beginner, I came in unsure and a little anxious; now I’m genuinely excited for every class.
I have been attending NW Fighting Ars for the past three months, and I can truly say it has been a beautiful, grounding experience. The qigong and tai chi classes are fun and interactive. Each session leaves me calmer, more centered, and more connected to my body. The instructors are knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely caring. They create an environment that feels welcoming and supportive, no matter your experience level. I love how they break down the movements with such clarity and intention, making it easy to learn while still challenging myself in the best way. NW Fighting Arts is a peaceful space where you can grow, breathe, and reconnect with yourself. I am grateful I found this place and highly recommend it to anyone looking to bring more balance and strength into their life.
The coaches, varies training areas and overall feel of the gym is amazing. Everyone is welcoming, understanding and supportive as you go through your own marital journey. I'm grateful for the brief time I spent here training and next time I find myself living in portland this will always be my go to training gym.

Empower your journey with martial arts and internal arts in a welcoming Portland community.
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Northwest Fighting Arts is a premier martial arts and wellness center in Portland, OR, offering a supportive environment for all skill levels. Specializing in martial arts training, Tai Chi, and Qigong, our experienced instructors focus on technique, conditioning, and personal growth. Whether you're seeking self-defense, fitness, or inner balance, our community-driven classes provide a respectful and challenging experience. Join us to build confidence, strength, and connections in a non-intimidating atmosphere.
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