Downtown Martial Arts Academy has a long history of serving the Starkville community, offering safe and practical self defense, judo, taekwondo, and jujutsu training.
With an emphasis on supporting the local community, as well as fellow businesses, Downtown Martial Arts Academy is constantly growing to cater to the needs of the community around them.
Downtown Martial Arts Academy teaches martial arts classes for adults and children, as well as offers self defense classes for businesses, schools, and community organizations.
For over 20 years Doug Bedsaul has been teaching martial arts in Starkville. After graduating from Mississippi State University, Bedsaul made Starkville his home and has served with several local non-profits and other members of the business community.
A Starkville native, Cheryl Chambers is a staff member who has enjoyed working with children for most of her career.
Throughout their storied career, Bedsaul said, “We have been thrilled to meet many children with aspirations, along with the Olympic champions that inspire them.”
Bedsaul added that the business has had so many interesting students, instructors, and special guests over the years.
In addition to their regularly scheduled classes and offerings, Downtown Martial Arts Academy can be seen throughout the community participating in events like the International Fiesta and Shades of Starkville on the campus of MSU, as well as the Cotton District Arts Festival held each year in the Cotton District in Starkville.
Bedsaul credits the Partnership for a majority of their networking opportunities.
Bedsaul said, “The Partnership has helped by providing community events to be involved with and to sponsor.”
“They also facilitate networking among local businesses which is a big plus. It is important to us to be a part of the community in several different ways,” he said.
There are many things Bedsaul says he enjoys about owning a business in Starkville, but perhaps the most is the success stories for individuals.
Bedsaul said, “We enjoy sharing stories about our clients winning national championships, or using their skills to protect themselves and their families.”
To learn more about Downtown Martial Arts Academy or to sign up for classes, visit their website at DMAAstarkville.com. You can also follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
