Different arts.
One strong foundation.

Karate means “empty hand.” It is a Japanese striking art that uses punches, kicks, blocks, other movements, and weapons as a full system of self-defense. One of Karate’s strengths is its emphasis on effective strikes while minimizing exposure to an opponent’s attacks. When executed properly, this approach makes timing, precision, and strategy central to the practice.

Rather than relying on size or strength alone, the practice emphasizes timing, precision, and the effective use of angles. Repetition helps develop coordination and an understanding of how to move with purpose.

Alongside its physical techniques, Karate offers a practice of awareness, discipline, and character development. Students can approach the art according to their own capabilities.

Often translated as the “gentle way” or “gentle art,” Jiu Jitsu focuses on grappling, positioning, and control. Its practice explores how technique and leverage can be used in close contact.

Jared began learning Jiu Jitsu during childhood and continued through high school and college, including training with members of the Gracie Jiu Jitsu family.

Jiu Jitsu forms part of the combination of martial arts practiced at Strong Roots. If someone takes you down to the ground, you’ll be able to escape from various positions, reverse positioning, defend against attacks, neutralize and control an opponent, and submit an attacker with chokes, joint locks, and other submission holds. You’ll also develop the skills to systematically take an opponent to the ground, neutralize and control them, and apply a submission.

Known as the art of eight limbs, Muay Thai efficiently uses the fists, elbows, knees, and shins. It combines striking with close-range clinching techniques.

The practice emphasizes combinations, movement, powerful strikes, and physical stamina. It is also a prominent striking discipline within modern mixed martial arts and is the national sport of Thailand.

Jared has traveled to Thailand twice to train in Muay Thai, bringing that experience into his approach to martial arts.

Eskrima, Kali, and Arnis are names associated with Filipino martial arts traditions. Weapons practice is a distinctive part of these systems, with attention to timing, coordination, and angles. In fact, its broad application to weapons is so effective that it’s taught to Navy SEALs and some special combat military teams. Even the legendary Bruce Lee learned Eskrima and incorporated it into his Jeet Kune Do style.

Jared began learning Doce Pares Eskrima on the island of Cebu in the Philippines, training with Grandmaster Ciriaco “Cacoy” Cañete.

After returning to the United States, he continued his study at a local martial arts school, further developing his knowledge of the Filipino weapons-based system.