The next Knife Defense Seminar is on May 16th at 6:15 PM and is open to both men and women. Register

About Innovative Martial Arts Academy

High-Energy Martial Arts For All Ages And Abilities

Our Core Values

We value family first and we emphasize that in everything we do. In our facility, you’ll feel welcomed from day one and challenged with exciting classes that are always changing to keep you on your toes. We take a top-down approach to teaching character education. Our instructors and staff live and believe principles like Focus, Discipline, Integrity, and Perseverance.

IMAA Student Creed

I will develop myself in a positive manner and avoid anything that could reduce my mental growth or physical health.

I will develop self-discipline in order to bring out the best in myself and others.

I will use common sense before self defense and never be abusive or offensive.

This is a black belt school, we are dedicated, motivated, and on a quest to be our best.

IMAA Student Creed

I will develop myself in a positive manner and avoid anything that could reduce my mental growth or physical health.

I will develop self-discipline in order to bring out the best in myself and others.

I will use common sense before self defense and never be abusive or offensive.

This is a black belt school, we are dedicated, motivated, and on a quest to be our best.

Our Mission

Our mission is to teach high quality martial arts classes and instill in each student what it takes to succeed in every aspect of their lives. With our Family First approach, there is a real sense of belonging at Innovative Martial Arts Academy.

Why We Teach Martial Arts

As a child, our senior instructor Charles Falk was bullied. As he progressed and continued his training, he learned that martial arts encompassed so much more. His grades went up, he began to have respect for himself and others, and a new found confidence that made him less susceptible to bullying. The end goal is to not have to put yourself in a situation resolved with self defense, i.e. use common sense before self defense. In the end, our belief is that you’re no one’s punching bag, so the kids are empowered with realistic training that works!

Our Dedicated Team

Our team is committed to your success from the moment you walk through our doors. If you have the desire and drive to get your black belt, we are here to help you build your mental, physical, and emotional tools with comprehensive coaching and unwavering support.

Karate Classes For Kids and Teens

Adult Martial Arts Classes

Charles Falk

Charles Falk is the Owner and Chief Instructor. He has trained for over 40 years in martial arts. The primary arts taught in his school include aikido, kenpo karate, kali, and ju jitsu. Sensei Falk has a focus on concepts rather than rote memorization. It is very important to him that his students know how to apply what they learn.

Charles not only enjoys training in the martial arts, he also loves to teach and help others benefit from the martial arts. This led him to open his first school in Albuquerque, New Mexico while still active duty Air Force. Since retiring from the service after 20 years, he brought his passion to teach to Wake Forest, NC. He has experience teaching police officers and members of the special forces community.

He realizes that every student is unique, both in the way they learn and process information and he’s able to share his knowledge and information so that everyone in the class gets it. He has helped children with shyness, ADHD, and special needs to learn martial arts… and most of all, he and his instructors are ready and willing to help YOU!

Carter

Belt Rank: 2nd Degree Black Belt in Kenpo Karate, Green Belt in Aikido

Where do you attend school: Heritage High School, Wake Forest

Why did you start IMAA: Honestly, my parents signed me up for Lil Ninjas Karate when I was 3. It was fun and I enjoyed it so I stuck with it.

What have you gained attending IMAA: Karate has helped me become more outgoing and confident in the dojo and in everyday life.

Honors/awards: A/B honor roll

Hobbies:

Heather

Belt Rank: 4th Degree Black Belt in Aikido

4th Degree Black Belt in Jujitsu

2nd Degree Black Belt in Kenpo Karate

Where did you attend school: Wake Tech

Time on Leadership Team: 12 years

Time teaching: 9 years

Brecken

Belt Rank: 2nd Degree Black Belt in Kenpo Karate

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Laila

Belt Rank: 2nd Degree Black Belt in Kenpo Karate

Where did you attend school: Heritage Middle

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Fiona

Belt Rank: 1st Degree Black Belt in Kenpo Karate

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Our Reviews

Great school with wonderful teachers. My daughter has a great time learning and everyone is friendly. There is even an adult class that allowed me to try to see if I liked it and everyone was very patient with me. I am thankful to have my daughter be a part of the Innovative Martial Arts Academy in Wake Forest and know she is benefiting from it in more than one way. It amazes me how fast she is learning and how hard she is trying. They have her trying to develop at her fullest with her mind, body, and spirit. I would recommend this school to anyone interested in martial arts.

Janice P.

This place is great! Charles and his team have fantastic programs for kids. When we started our 3.5 year old son, I didn’t know what to expect. He quickly adapted to the classes and now loves going. Our 2 year old son loves watching and will start as well as soon as he turns 3. Innovative Martial arts also hosted their birthday parties. The kids had a blast doing different activities throughout the birthday party. Can’t say enough good things about this place, and what they teach!

William D.

Wonderful place for not only skill development but also personal development. Owner and instructors genuinely get to know students and families and care about them. The lessons learned will provide character growth as well as martial art skills. The owner is also a long time student of many different martial arts, he didn’t just buy a franchise, and tries very hard to live what he teaches the students. Proud to have been in this dojo family for 6+ years and proud of the friendships we have made there!

Kristi F.