A world where people live in gratitude, with integrity and to their fullest potential not limited by unfounded fear and self-doubt to create amazing possibilities for themselves, their families and for the benefit of the earth and mankind.
We create the future leaders, innovators and creators through our integrity based martial arts and fitness program.
TOP VALUES
We Are Safe – Safety is our TOP priority. Whether it is on the mat for martial arts or for fitness, we instruct and practice correct form and technique to prevent injuries and accidents.
We Are Clean And Organized – Maintaining good energy flow of a space requires the space to be clutter-free, organized, well maintained, and clean.
We Are Constantly Seeking Knowledge – We are constantly striving to better ourselves and in turn our students.
We Do What We Say and We Say What We Do – Integrity is one of our TOP Tenets.
We Live In Gratitude – We are grateful for all life experiences good and bad that have brought us to this moment. We are grateful for all that was given to us through martial arts and it is our priviledge to pass it on.
We Are Fiscally Safe – Every decision is based in the best customer experience. Our pricing is clear and open with no hidden fees.
We Are Friendly and Non-Judgemental – We believe in connection. We believe in providing an accepting, fun and supportive family environment in our school.
We Take Ownership – If something needs to be addressed, any one of the staff will feel compelled to take ownership to resolve the situation.
GRANDMASTER ELLEN REICHELT
Training since 1988 in Hapkido, teaching martial arts since 2000 at American Hapkido in Seymour, CT. Grandmaster Ellen is a 7th degree Black Belt who enthusiastically prepares her students on their journey to Black Belt and success in all aspects of life. Master Ellen was inducted for Master of the Year in Hapkido into the World Karate Hall of Fame in 2010. Master Ellen was a contributing author to International Best Seller, “Black Belt Power – Inspirational Stories by Extraordinary Martial Artists” published in 2016.
Grandmaster Ellen is a UCONN graduate with a BS in Mechanical Engineering and a BS in Material Science. She has worked for over 33 years as a Project Engineer. She brings the experience of working out in industry to the martial arts mat to train the students to be effective leaders, to operate in Integrity, to think outside the box, and to be self motivated. Married to her high school sweetheart, Kevin, they share their home with their beautiful German Shepherds.
Airiel Vega
I started training in 2003, when I was six years old, so I have known Ellen for most of my life. She is one of the most amazing people you will ever meet and I am lucky to say that she is more than just my instructor, she is family. Throughout the years of training, she pushed me when I needed it most and helped me every time I asked. She trained me through both of my black belt tests and I know I couldn’t have done it without her. She didn’t just look at me as a student, but as a friend and it made the world of a difference to me. She makes you feel like you’re her number one priority and ensures that you’re at your fullest potential. Anyone who meets or works with Ellen is lucky because she will have a huge positive impact on your life.
Deb Trevelin
Three years ago I was looking for a fitness class that was not a gym. My cousin recommended that I try the KUT program with her. I had never done kickboxing, but a couple of my friends had and thought I would like it. They were right.
That’s where I met Master Ellen.
She has great patience in showing the correct form and would come over to my bag to “fix” me if I was doing something incorrectly. Encouraging me by letting me start at my own pace yet motivating me to keep up with her once I figured out what I was doing.
When I started I could not do a full push up, with the training motivation my highest was 42!!
Her energy invigorates, motivates and encourages you to do your best…. You will feed off her energy!!
Karen Vega
Ellen is one of the most kind, caring, determined and unforgettable people you will ever meet. I met Ellen in 2003 when she was my daughter Airiel’s Hapkido instructor. Ellen was a consistent instructor during the 10 years Airiel trained. While Airiel was training for her Black belt Ellen would come in and work extra hours to make sure she was ready for her test. There were many times Airiel would have given up if it wasn’t for Ellen helping and guiding her through. Over the years Ellen has become more than an instructor for us; she is someone we can both truly call a friend.
Kathryn Shasha
When I needed to get in shape for television pilot season; Ellen was the person that drove me to be my very best above any other trainer I ever had. I had the privilege of being trained by her during my Kick Boxing Ultimate Training (KUT program). She not only taught us to perform the movements safely, she motivated us to get the results we wanted. And above all…she always made it fun! She has an amazing personality and her nonstop energy is contagious. I looked forward to every class. I HIGHLY recommend her for any fitness/Karate program. She is the best!
Krista Gambino-Seymour
My kids began taking karate about 5 years ago. My kids are not at all into sports or competitive but I am so glad they went. They grew so much in their confidence and inner strength. This was in part of their Masters and teachers. Master Ellen, however, was one who took my daughter under her wing. She recognized immediately when she was feeling anxious or sad. Her pep talks were so heartfelt and meaningful to her and for that, I am incredibly grateful.
It was not much longer when I joined in school’s KUT program. It was such a motivating group and the instructors were so encouraging and supportive. There was a point when I was feeling very discouraged about my progress (lack of). Master Ellen immediately pulled me aside and helped me through that period. Her words of encouragement and her belief in me stays with me to this day.
I am so glad she is taking this amazing venture. Master Ellen is truly gifted and a wonderful individual with a caring soul. She is an excellent and fun (my kid’s words) instructor.