American Buddhist Shim Gum Do Association

8.2

203 Chestnut Hill Ave, Boston, MA 02135

Perfect for:

Meditation enthusiastsTraditional martial arts practitioners

Meditation enthusiastsTraditional martial arts practitionersSpiritual seekers

Opens in 2 days at 9AM

Call Go Visit

About Gym Instructors Facility FAQs

American Buddhist Shim Gum Do Association interior

About

American Buddhist Shim Gum Do Association in Boston, Massachusetts provides a distinctive approach to martial arts training that combines sword techniques, meditation, and traditional Korean Buddhist practices. The facility operates as both a martial arts school and a Buddhist temple, offering regular classes, monthly open houses, and a welcoming environment for practitioners of all levels. Their integrated approach focuses on both physical training and mental development, making it particularly appealing to those seeking a more holistic martial arts experience.

Jiu Jitsu Verified

8.22/10

Our weighted 10-point scoring system for martial arts academies prioritizes instruction quality, training environment, and overall student experience.

We consider factors like instructor expertise, class structure, and facility quality. Our assessment combines student feedback, expert reviews, and website information.

Scores above 9.00 denote world-class quality, signifying premier martial arts training experiences.

Overall Vibe

8.5010 reviews

Instructors Quality

8.437 reviews

Classes

8.754 reviews

Facility Quality

7.437 reviews

Pricing

0 reviews

Location & Accessibility

8.001 reviews

Public Review Sentiment

Based on 13 Google Reviews

The majority of public feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with practitioners particularly appreciating the unique blend of meditation and martial arts training, though there has been one concerning review regarding safety.

Last Updated 15 Apr 2025

Instructors

The instructors are described as highly skilled and talented in both martial arts instruction and spiritual guidance. They show particular care in adapting training to individual needs and limitations.

Facility

The facility is a traditional Korean Zen Buddhist temple with beautiful architecture and ambiance. The training space provides an authentic and peaceful environment for practice.

Pricing

The gym offers various training options including a residency program and regular classes. They provide free monthly open houses with meditation sessions and demonstrations.

See Pricing

Facility

Well MaintainedEnough spaceTemple groundsTraining hallMeditation space

Gym

Mixed AtmosphereWelcoming VibeGood Safety

Instructors

ExperiencedPatientKnowledgeableSupportive

Classes

GiAdvancedKids ClassesAdult friendly

Pricing

Good ValueFree trial

Monthly free open houses include meditation sessions, dharma talks, and martial arts demonstrations

Location

Street Only ParkingGood Accessibility

Opening Hours

Opens in 2 days at 9AM

Monday	9AM - 7:30PM
Tuesday	9AM - 7:30PM
Wednesday	9AM - 7:30PM
Thursday	9AM - 7:30PM
Friday	9AM - 5PM
Saturday (Today)	9AM - 12PM
Sunday	Closed

Location

Located in Boston, the facility is accessible and serves as a cultural landmark for Korean Buddhist martial arts practice.

Address

203 Chestnut Hill Ave, Boston, MA 02135

Website

https://shimgumdo.org/

Visit

Phone

+1 617-787-1506

Call

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this martial art different from others?

This martial art uniquely combines meditation with physical training, focusing on fluid sword movements and traditional Korean Buddhist practices.

Is prior meditation experience required?

No prior experience is necessary, as both beginners and experienced practitioners are welcome and will receive appropriate guidance.

What can I expect at the monthly open house?

The first Friday of each month features free meditation sessions, dharma talks, martial arts demonstrations, and complimentary barley tea.

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