Alexandria, Kentucky
Northern Kentucky's best martial arts four years running
Traditional karate fused with modern technique, led by third-generation expert Michael McClendon. From a first class at age three to Team USA.
A class for every age
Our programs
Ages 3–5
Little Spartans
Martial arts basics, discipline, and perseverance — while having fun and making friends.
Ages 6–12
Youth Program
Advanced skills, strength and stamina, weapons forms, point sparring, and kickboxing.
Ages 13+
Teens & Adults
Self-defense, conditioning, and technique for every level — fitness to international sparring.
By tryout
MMA & Competition
Intense MMA training with a path to cage matches and Team USA international competition.
Three generations on the mat
About McClendon Martial Arts
Led by Michael McClendon, a third-generation martial arts expert, we blend traditional karate with modern technique to empower students of all ages. Students master a fusion of self-defense moves and take-downs while learning healthy habits, confidence, and self-discipline.
Ethics and integrity matter here as much as technique — on and off the mat.
Ages 3 & up
Little Spartans to adults
National titles
WKC & WKU circuits
Team abroad
Wales · Ireland · Portugal · Canada
What students take home
More than technique
Self-defense
A working fusion of strikes, blocks, and take-downs you can actually use.
Discipline
Structure and repetition that shows up in schoolwork and at home.
Confidence
Earned belt by belt — students learn that effort compounds.
Conditioning
Cardio endurance and strength built through real training, not drills on a screen.
Ethics & integrity
How you carry yourself off the mat is part of the curriculum.
Competition path
National titles in WKC and WKU circuits for students who want the podium.
Visit the dojo
Free parking. Walk in during class hours and watch a session.