Kicking it with Swanson’s Martial Arts

The five tenets of Taekwondo — courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, and indomitable spirit — are at the heart of every class at Swanson’s Martial Arts (SMA). Students begin and end each session by reciting these principles to help ingrain them into their training and daily lives. These are the same principles Jason Swanson, co-owner and instructor, first learned when he began practicing. Today, this community-focused dojo builds upon its Taekwondo classes with martial arts and self-defense training.

A Small Town Start 

Jason’s martial arts journey began in Leigh, Nebraska, where he was first introduced to Taekwondo by a friend in elementary school. “I went to just watch, and the instructor said, ‘everyone who comes in participates,’ and I was hooked.” After continuing his training through college, Jason and his wife, Nicole, moved to Lincoln, where they began teaching at the YMCA. In 1995, they opened SMA. “Martial arts is a developing universe, so there’s always new ways to do things,” said Jason. “Our approach reflects that viewpoint, and we — and our students — like to learn.” 

What Makes SMA Special?

SMA’s focus isn’t just on moves — it’s about growth. Starting with Taekwondo, classes have expanded to include Hapkido, Filipino Combatives, and even modern Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) techniques. The idea is to stay flexible, learn new skills, and always improve. 

For younger kids, the studio offers a program called Little Dragons, where those as young as 4-years-old learn the basics — listening, balance, and coordination. As students grow older, they can level up to more advanced classes in Taekwondo, Hapkido, or even specialized training in Filipino stick fighting, also known as Kali.

Beyond martial arts, SMA helps students develop valuable life skills like focus, memory, and discipline. These skills support academic success, athletic performance, and personal growth. The dojo, located at 48th and Old Cheney, offers summer camps where kids combine martial arts with fun activities like crafts, field trips, and more! 

Empowering Women

SMA offers women’s self-defense classes. Jason shared, “Our self-defense classes are taught by women, specifically for women, creating a comfortable and empowering environment.” Co-owner Nicole Swanson leads these, focusing on practical, real-world techniques, and the flexible classes are designed to accommodate women of all ages and abilities. 

Building Strong Characters

SMA teaches students to become respectful leaders both in and outside the dojo, always building on the five tenets. Advanced students even complete community service projects to reinforce these qualities.

Martial arts is more than a way to stay fit — it’s a path to personal growth. Adults benefit from the physical and mental challenge, while kids gain confidence and learn important life skills. 

“Whether for fitness, fun, or self-improvement, SMA provides something for everyone.” 

The goal is steady growth, learning new skills, and becoming the best version of yourself. Jason believes Bruce Lee’s famous quote sums it up best: “Don’t fear the person who knows 10,000 kicks; fear the person who has practiced one kick 10,000 times.”