Founded by Michael and Sydney Lewis in 2010, Lion's Crest Martial Arts has launched many people into a lifetime of martial arts training. Our goal is not just to "create black belts" but to start people on a path to a lifetime of health through training in the martial arts. We adopted "Train for Life" as our motto.
It is a motto with a multifaceted meaning; we have students who train for physical or mental health, and some train for safety in their jobs or for self defense. Michael Lewis has grown up in the martial arts, since the age of 10. At 16, he started teaching in the Wilmington and Burgaw area. He later earned his Black Belt and continued until his Sa Dan (4th Degree) in Moo Duk Kwon under Master Doug McDonald and.
It is a motto with a multifaceted meaning; we have students who train for physical or mental health, and some train for safety in their jobs or for self defense. Michael Lewis has grown up in the martial arts, since the age of 10. At 16, he started teaching in the Wilmington and Burgaw area. He later earned his Black Belt and continued until his Sa Dan (4th Degree) in Moo Duk Kwon under Master Doug McDonald and.
Services
Our Adult's Membership offers Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, Kick Boxing, and Women's Only Kick Boxing. Each program brings a different challenge that will sharpen your skills in competition and self defense. No matter the skill level, our team cares about your training and safety. Scroll down for more information about our different programs to help you Train for Life.
STRUCTURE | Listening and following instructions take priority over punches and kicks. We use a variety of drills and games help kids develop good listening skills along with better coordination. Quality Brazilian Jiu-jitsu and Karate start with step by step instruction of the basics; our instructors go over these basics on a level that our 5-7 yr olds can understand and accomplish.
Reviews (13)
Michele P.
Jan 20, 2022
Report
My son attends summer camp and their Karate and Brazilian Jujitsu classes. Our family has known Michael and Sydney for a long time and they are the most genuine caring and loving people I know. Their gym is great and they are amazing with the kids. I feel my son is well taken care of when he is with them.
Heather Stokes
Oct 01, 2021
Report
My child was there for 5 years & worked his way up w/hard work/dedication. He helped out in all classes. Never got into trouble & was always helpful. He join the "Competition Team" where the instructors failed to teach him on different submissions to GI and No GI. My child was put in a North South position & my child knew nothing of this technique. Next child put him in a neck crank! A No GI submission when it was a Gi match, it was illegal. Coach & Owner Sydney didn't even call it. My husband recorded it & took it to Michael (Owner/Coach) he said that it was a neck crank/illegal. Official ref
Kyle Mulvaney
Sep 21, 2021
Report
Michael and Sydney are amazing people as well as coaches. I've been to many gyms in many states and by far this is the best experience I've ever had. There is a warm, friendly, and family oriented atmosphere that is second to none. The training and instruction is top notch, both of them want to see their students achieve their goals and succeed on the mat and in life. I can't say enough about the caliber of training and of the owners.
Steven Wasner
Aug 29, 2021
Report
Mason Mulvaney
Aug 05, 2021
Report
This gym is amazing and outstanding! The instructors are so friendly and the atmosphere is family friendly. They care about what they teach and it is seen through the way they act. They are honest and give you there time and support when you have questions. This is definitely a 10/10 gym. They are patient and don't yell or talk down to any of the students. They are cautious and warn students when doing a technique that might be a little more intense.
Ray Rosso
Jul 16, 2021
Report
This gym is AMAZING! The instructors are friendly, kind, knowledgeable about what they teach and always go the extra mile to ensure you understand the techniques being taught. I've been training here for close to a year and from the very first time you step through the door, they make you feel like a part of the Lion's Crest family. The environment is family friendly and there isn't an aggressive "kill or be killed" mindset like you might find in other martial arts gyms. However, don't be fooled by the friendly approach, their method of teaching is legit, proven by the many medals won in competitions
Michael F.
Mar 01, 2021
Report
Lion's Crest has been a great choice for me and my family. My son first started here doing jiu-jitsu. He enjoys it very much and is always proud to be apart of their team. Mike and Sydney are always very supportive and their staff is always friendly and kind. They are teaching these kids great life skills while having fun. After a few years of my son taking classes here I signed up to take kickboxing classes. A few years later and I am still going every Tuesday and Thursday night and I always feel good after class. The classmates are awesome and supportive as well. COVID has been tough
Sherrie A.
Feb 05, 2021
Report
Stay away from this facility. Michael and Sydney do not treat all the kids the same, their nephew is allowed to do and say whatever he wants to the other kids without repercussions, a double standard is set for him. My grandson was a member for 4 years, never missed a class, was asked to assist with smaller kids and was the best student they had per both of them. When their nephew started making remarks to my grandson which were in violation of their policy they chose not to address the issue. When my daughter questioned them about this, they still chose to do nothing to their nephew per the guidelines
Margaret Hollinger
Oct 24, 2019
Report
I was very hesitant to join a kickboxing class, but the hesitation melted away as soon as I walked in the door. This gym has such a friendly atmosphere that you can't help but be hooked. Sydney mixes kickboxing with self defense, core and conditioning for the women's class and it is the best workout with the best people. I can't wait to come to classes every week. My family loves it so much that my daughter has even started the children's classes. 5 stars to these amazing people!!
Sarah Russ
Oct 27, 2018
Report
My children have been attending Lions Crest for 6 years and I cannot imagine a better place for them to train. Michael and Sydney are of the highest character and their instructors reflect the same standards.They truly desire the best for their members. They challenge them physically and mentally but also in their conduct and character. Lions Crest is not just another class, it’s an investment in yourself and your children.
Karl Hammers
Oct 12, 2018
Report
Lion's Crest Martial Arts is a great school for both youths and adults. Mike and Sydney make the classes fun and at the same time challenging. The classes are great for learning kickboxing and JuJitsu and are also a great workout. My flexibility, balance and strength have improved dramatically since I started training with them.
Annette Davis
Jul 22, 2018
Report
We are extremely pleased with all aspects of Lions Crest Martial Arts. Our two children have been attending the after school program, which includes Karate and Jujisu classes, for almost a year. Sydney and Michael are great with the kids, both on and off the mat. Not only do our children learn the discipline that goes along with Martial Arts, they are also encouraged to always be respectful, treat others as they wish to be treated and lead by example. Mrs. Sarah helps them with their homework, plays games with them and encourages learning activities. We are so very thankful for LC. We are confident
Jonathan Uzcategui
Aug 03, 2014
Report
Michael and Sydney are excellent instructors as well as people. Their attention to every student with patience, understanding and guidance makes their school a great place to learn Martial Arts. The academy is clean well kept and they are always updating to accommodate new students. I am extremely happy to have them on our Alliance team and to personally call them my friends. They are always willing to learn and do what it takes to become even better as students and instructors. I would recommend Lions Crest to anyone on the Burgaw area and especially to parents who have kids. Why wouldn't you
