BY ELESE MCKINLEY
FOR THE OBSERVER
OPELIKA — Hooked Martial Arts of Opelika offers an adaptive martial arts program specifically for children and adults with special needs. This adaptive program specializes in making martial arts accessible for everyone, offering personalized training that adapts to each participant’s abilities, all while fostering growth both mentally and physically. Led by experienced instructors, Hooked Martial Arts provides a supportive environment where participants can learn self-defense, build self-confidence and develop essential life skills.
Owners Andy and Jen Roberts have created a program that adapts martial arts techniques to accommodate a wide range of abilities, ensuring that each participant can thrive regardless of their physical or apprehensive challenges. The program fosters the development of life skills such as discipline, respect and bodily autonomy. Everyone is celebrated for their unique strengths, while receiving support to address areas in need of improvement.
For Scott, a young man with special needs, Hooked Martial Art’s adaptive martial arts program has become apart of his weekly routine. His mother, Andrea Branch, said she has witnessed firsthand the profound impact the program has had on his confidence, discipline and overall well-being. She said that through this program, participants like Scott find strength, community and a sense of belonging that extends far beyond the dojo.
Scott has been participating in this program for about a year now, attending the adaptive martial arts classes every Friday. Scott also attends classes through the Exceptional Foundation of East Alabama, which serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing them with engagement opportunities. Scott has Lennox-Gastaut syndrome, which has caused him physical and mental disabilities, along with seizures, since early childhood. The condition has led to mobility issues and drop seizures.
Andy Roberts began working with Scott on muscle memory through a technique called a “break fall,” which teaches him how to fall properly. This training has helped Scott fall safely and avoid head injuries during seizures.
“Since joining the program, Scott’s mobility has significantly improved,” said his mother. “They regularly discuss nutrition with him and assist in managing his weight. The program has also focused on building his strength, particularly in his core, and improving his coordination. He’s been able to engage with others and become part of a community. This program has truly helped him feel included and involved.”
Roberts said for special needs adults, the ability to defend themselves is crucial. He said Hooked Martial Art’s adaptive program allows individuals with disabilities to have a community where they can feel included and be accommodated. For Scott and others like him, the program provides more than just martial arts instruction — it creates a supportive community where personal growth and a sense of belonging can flourish.
“Fostering both independence and self-reliance is important for individuals with disabilities as they transition into adulthood,” he said. “Learning self-defense not only improves their physical safety but also builds confidence, helping them navigate the world with more assurance. Being in an inclusive, engaging environment like Hooked Martial Arts’ adaptive martial arts class promotes personal growth and provides a deeper sense of security.”
Hooked Martial Arts is located in the USA Town Center, 1220 Fox Run Ave., Suite 110, Opelika. Learn more at hookedmartialarts.com.
