By Sam Bone on March 22, 2025
Martial arts is more than just physical training—it is a way of life, a discipline, and a tool for personal growth. Few understand this better than Dr. Steve Jacowicz, the founder of Classical Martial Arts of Long Island. Action Martial Arts Magazine named his school “Best Martial Arts School of 2025.” With decades of experience, an extensive academic background, and a lifelong passion for teaching, Steve has created a space where students of all ages can train, grow, and find their own path through the martial arts.
At his studio, students don’t just learn how to punch, kick, and grapple; they learn when and how to apply their skills, how to develop self-discipline, and how to cultivate a sense of balance and wisdom in their lives.
Steve’s journey in martial arts began when he was eight years old, captivated by the martial arts films of his youth. What started as childhood excitement quickly turned into a lifelong pursuit of knowledge, skill, and leadership. Over the years, he studied both Chinese and Japanese martial arts, earning recognition as both a Sifu (Chinese martial arts teacher) and a Sensei (Japanese martial arts teacher).
But his passion wasn’t limited to the dojo. Steve’s academic journey is just as impressive—he earned his undergraduate degree from Harvard, studied traditional East Asian medicine in Korea, obtained a PhD in East Asian Medical History from Boston University, and spent years teaching at prestigious institutions like the New England School of Acupuncture, Tufts University, and the University of Bridgeport.
His deep knowledge of medicine, history, and philosophy gives him a unique perspective on martial arts—not just as a method of self-defense but as a holistic practice for health, personal growth, and self-improvement.
At Classical Martial Arts of Long Island, students range from four years old to their mid-70s. The school offers an array of disciplines to suit different interests and goals, including:
🥋 Traditional Karate, Jiu Jitsu, & Judo – Teaching discipline, competition, and practical self-defense.
🥋 Wing Chun – A close-quarters self-defense system, made famous by Bruce Lee.
🥋 Tai Chi & Bagua – Internal martial arts for balance, health, and self-perfection.
🥋 Shaolin Kung Fu – A dynamic style that blends agility, strength, and tradition.
The studio isn’t just about learning how to fight—it’s about becoming a better version of yourself.
“It’s easy to sharpen a sword, but hard to train a swordsman,” Steve often tells his students. “It’s one thing to learn a technique, but it’s another thing to know when, why, and how to use it”.
For Steve, teaching martial arts isn’t just about perfecting a punch or mastering a throw—it’s about shaping stronger, more confident individuals. His leadership extends beyond the mats, working with:
✔ Competitive athletes – Training fighters for national and international tournaments, including the USA Team for the Soshin Kaikan Full Contact Karate League in Germany.
✔ Special needs students – Offering one-on-one training for students on the autism spectrum, those with developmental disabilities, and others needing specialized instruction.
✔ Seniors & fall prevention programs – Teaching elderly individuals how to prevent and safely recover from falls, a skill that has already helped prevent serious injuries among his students.
One of his most memorable students was a non-verbal child with developmental challenges. At first, the child had difficulty engaging in training, but one day, Steve discovered that the child loved pretending to be a monkey.
“That one connection changed everything,” he recalls. “Once we realized what sparked his interest, we could customize his training in a way that made sense to him. It’s about meeting people where they are and helping them grow from there”.
With over 125 students and growing, Steve’s school has become a community hub for personal development. Whether you’re looking to compete, stay fit, learn self-defense, or improve your overall well-being, there’s a place for you at Classical Martial Arts of Long Island.
Beyond technique, Steve teaches students how to think, how to be adaptable, and how to face challenges with resilience. His guiding philosophy?
🌟 “Tomorrow owes you nothing. You have to earn a good one.”
With that mindset, every student—young or old—walks away stronger, more disciplined, and more prepared for whatever life throws their way.
Ready to challenge yourself, grow, and become part of a supportive martial arts community?
📍 Location: Old Bethpage, Nassau County, New York
🌐 Website: www.classicalma.com
🎟️ Try Two Weeks Free! – Come in, meet the instructors, and experience what makes this school different.
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