MAX Martial Arts & Fitness proudly serving Farmingdale

MAX Martial Arts & Fitness has classes in Farmingdale, perfect for kids, teen, and adult martial arts lessons.

Who we Are And why You Should Train Here

Since we’ve opened, we’ve been dedicated to changing the lives of people one person at a time, through martial arts, education, and coaching. We strive to provide a safe, comfortable, and welcoming atmosphere for all students and family members. We take pride in creating an environment for individuals to achieve, develop, and succeed in their personal goals.

We strongly believe that martial arts can be for everyone, regardless of age, gender, or experience level. Throughout all of our programs, students will not only learn the necessary skill sets to protect themselves, we stand behind our realistic and practical approach, confident it will enable every member to achieve greatness and live their best life.

Get To Know Our World Class Instructors

Sifu Rafael

Chief Instrutor

I’ve been training in Martial Arts since 1975, but what I’ve built goes far beyond techniques, forms, or competition.

Kung Fu gave me direction, discipline, and purpose and I made a decision early on that I would dedicate my life to passing that on to others.

I began teaching in 1992. In October of 1995, I opened MAX Martial Arts & Fitness with one clear mission: to preserve the art of Kung Fu and impact lives for generations to come.

This is not just a school to me, it’s a responsibility.

Every student who walks through our doors starts a journey that extends far beyond the mat. Yes, they will learn how to move, how to defend themselves, and how to become stronger physically, but more importantly, they will build confidence, discipline, respect, and resilience. These are the qualities that shape who they become in life.

I still carry the mindset of a white belt. I train daily, study constantly, and continue to refine my craft, not just for myself, but for every student and family that trusts us with their growth.

I believe the true beauty of Kung Fu is in the details, the small disciplines practiced consistently over time. That’s where confidence is built. That’s where character is forged.

I have had the honor of teaching students who started as children and grew into leaders, families who train together and generations who carry forward what they’ve learned here into their lives, their careers, and their own families.

That is the legacy.

MAX Martial Arts & Fitness is not just about what you learn here, it’s about who you become and what you carry forward long after you step of the mat.

Sihing David

Assistant Instructor for Pee-Wees, Juniors, Teens and Adults

I started my Kung Fu journey at Max Martial Arts in 2019. During the past 6+ years, Kung Fu has improved my life significantly. Kung Fu has helped me increase his physical fitness, alleviate chronic shoulder pain, and lose a significant amount of weight. I especially enjoy being able to participate in Kung Fu with my son, Aaron.

I enjoy challenging Kung Fu students and instilling discipline in them. I find it very rewarding when a student is able to perform a move in which they had previously struggled. I know that hard work and dedication allows people to improve all facets of their life.

Sije Dymond

Assistant Instructor for Pee-Wees and Juniors

My martial arts journey began in January 2025. I was inspired after enrolling my children in September 2023. I saw them lean in with courage, face challenges, and grow in confidence. Watching their progress made me incredibly proud, and so I decided to begin training too.

I love how Kung-Fu challenges both the body and the mind, and I value the confidence that comes from knowing I can protect myself and my family. I believe self‑defense is one of the most important life skills a person can develop.

When I teach, my goal is to create a nurturing, supportive environment where children feel safe making mistakes and learning from them. I offer individualized feedback so I can meet each student where they are and help guide them toward where they’re capable of going. I set high expectations because I’ve seen how kids rise to the level of belief you place in them. What I enjoy most about teaching is watching students discover their own potential. Those “I can do this” moments never get old.

Outside of class, I’m passionate about personal growth. I enjoy reading self‑development books and listening to motivational speakers. Jim Rohn is one of my favorite speakers. He says that “The ultimate reason for setting goals is to entice you to become the person it takes to achieve them,” and “Don’t wish it was easier; wish you were better.” This is a place where you can be better.

Sihing Kayden

Assistant Instructor for Pee-Wees and Juniors

I started my Kung Fu journey in January 2025, inspired by my kids who were already training. Even before officially starting, I spent time learning from the sidelines, which made the transition that much smoother. I also practiced martial arts as a child, so it’s been exciting to finally continue that journey and with a new level of purpose.

What I appreciate the most about Kung Fu is developing the ability to defend myself and others, and the confidence that comes with being prepared to do so. I also enjoy constantly working towards mastering the movements, understanding body mechanics, and building the discipline and mindset it takes. I think these things translate well to other parts of life.

As both an instructor and an educator in my professional life, I feel called to help others grow. I find the most fulfillment in seeing students build confidence, persevere through challenges, and experience those moments when something finally clicks. In my classes, I aim to create an environment that is challenging yet supportive, while still being flexible and fun.

Sihing Aaron

First Degree Junior Black Belt
Assistant Instructor for Pee-Wees and Juniors

I started my Kung Fu journey at Max Martial Arts in 2018. I progressed through the pee-wee and junior curriculum and I am now in the teen classes.

I enjoy teaching the pee-wee and junior Kung Fu students with a focus on learning Kung Fu in a fun way. I really enjoy when students do not realize they are “working hard”. I am most proud of being able to help young Kung Fu students learn how to better defend themselves and others.

I use the discipline, focus, and strength training I have learned at Max Martial Arts to improve for cross-country and spring track.