TAC Karate & Fitness
About
TAC Karate & Fitness offers both MMA and traditional karate training under the guidance of founder and head instructor Larry C. Tankson, a world champion with a 10th degree black belt. The gym has served the Chicago community for over four decades, building a reputation as a pillar where generations of students have trained and now bring their own children. Members consistently praise the structured classes and the way instructors focus on personal growth alongside martial arts skills, creating an environment where students develop confidence, leadership abilities, and attention to detail.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise the welcoming atmosphere created by Hanshi Tankson and his staff, describing the gym as a supportive community that extends beyond martial arts training. Reviewers highlight significant personal growth in themselves and their children, noting increased confidence, leadership skills, and attention to detail. Specific praise focuses on Hanshi Tankson's world-renowned expertise and the caring approach of all instructors, who are described as genuinely invested in students' overall well-being. Multiple reviews mention the gym's 44-year legacy and multi-generational impact, with former students returning years later to acknowledge how the training continues to influence their daily lives.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
E. Martin
10 months ago
Mr. Tankson & his staff always make us feel welcome. I love the growth my son has displayed & look forward to seeing more!
Amber Monahan
3 years ago
I was a part of the old shorewood location when I was in high school about 7or 8 years ago. This place was my support system and my escape from everything, every person I ever encountered with this dojo did everything they could to bring out the best in me. They all still have a huge impact on my day to day life, they teach more than just karate here and they truely care about their students. Not to mention that Hanshi and all of the Senseis are just all around badass people. Highly reccomend, 10/5 stars if I could.
Lionel LMF
12 months ago
Great school with excellent teachers. I've noticed more confidence, leadership skills, and attention to details with my son. Hanshi Tankson is world renowned in martial arts.
Bruce Cook
11 months ago
44 years as a pillar of the community. The generations of students who have studied, learned and excelled as martial artists, and who now bring their children to do the same. These truths and more speak to the reputation Hanshi Tankson has earned and the enduring legacy he has built at TAC. More important, Hanshi is a good man, and his instructors likewise good people. They care about the growth, development and well-being of TAC students as persons, not just martial artists. All are welcomed warmly, professionally and respectfully. High marks and high regard!!!!!
Oya Oya
2 years ago
Recently, my child attends TAC. We like the structure of the classes. Mr. Tankson is a long standing instructor in our community. We truly appreciate him and his team.
paymentsMembership
$35-$208/mo
Contact
7223 S Stony Island Ave, Chicago, IL 60649, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Sunday: 1:00 – 2:00 PM
groupCoaches & Instructors
Larry C. Tankson
Founder / Head Instructor
Hanshi (10th Degree Black Belt), World Champion
Began martial arts in 1969. Studied Goju-Ryu, Shorei-Goju, Shorei Ryu, and Tae Kwon Do. Former No. 1 ranked junior fighter in the Midwest. Opened Tankson Martial Arts Academy Ltd. in 1981.