InTucker Magazine

Business of the Month – The Martial Arts Center of Tucker

At The Martial Arts Center of Tucker, instructors and staff are dedicated to more than just teaching self-defense. Under the leadership of Shihan Mike Hernandez, the center fosters character development, enhances physical fitness, and boosts students’ confidence in a supportive and engaging environment.

“The martial arts is a discipline that allows students—both children and adults—to discover their best selves,” Hernandez said.

With a seventh-degree black belt in Shuri-ryu Karate and Shintoyoshin-kai Jiu-jitsu, Hernandez has been immersed in martial arts since 1976. His journey began at the age of five under the guidance of his father in Miami, Florida. In 2000, he had the opportunity to run his own dojo in Toco Hills, and by 2018, he relocated to Tucker, finding it the perfect home for The Martial Arts Center. “Tucker has been a great home for our dojo,” Hernandez said. “The community has been a tremendous support system, and I feel honored to be in the city.”

The Martial Arts Center has become a cherished part of the Tucker community, providing a valuable space for individuals and families. As the sole instructor, Hernandez is passionate about his students’ martial arts development as well as their personal growth.

The Center offers Karate classes for children ages 5 to 12, along with Karate and Jiu-jitsu classes for students ages 13 and up. In addition to regular training, TMAC is known for its Karate Summer Camps and unique birthday parties for children.

“Parents especially appreciate the inclusive and engaging nature of our birthday parties,” Hernandez said. “The parties provide a variety of games where everyone can be safe, have fun, and laugh a lot. Unlike other facilities, our parties focus on the birthday child and include everyone in activities such as rope games, races, and various challenges. A highlight is the ceremonial cutting of the cake with a Samurai sword, which the kids absolutely love. We serve cake early in the party so the kids can burn off the sugar, ensuring they aren’t overly energetic when they go home.”

The center’s Karate Summer Camps are a major draw, blending structured training with creative challenges, intense physical fitness, and exciting games. Designed for children ages 8 to 12, the camps offer a well-rounded experience that keeps kids engaged while fostering discipline and skill development.

For Hernandez, seeing the joy and confidence grow in each student is the most rewarding part of his work. The Martial Arts Center continues to make a positive impact in Tucker, encouraging physical activity, self-confidence, and personal achievement for all who step into the dojo.