SMY-FIT MISSION

At SMYL-FIT, our mission is to empower children with special needs by nurturing their physical strength, mental resilience, and leadership abilities through personalized martial arts and fitness programs. We are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where every child can thrive, build confidence, and experience the joy of movement, all while fostering a supportive community that brings smiles and promotes lifelong health and fitness.
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Let's Meet SMYL-FIT Advisor

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Grandmaster Dae Young Han

Grand Master Dae Young Han, a martial artist from Korea, has dedicated his life to mastering and teaching Taekwondo, earning top accolades and shaping champions worldwide. With advanced ranks in both Taekwondo and Kendo, he combines exceptional skill with visionary leadership, inspiring the next generation through his coaching, mentoring, and advocating for martial arts excellence.

Cara Graham

Cara Graham, M.A., BCBA, is the visionary force behind Graham Behavior Services, serving as its Executive Director and founder. Holding a Master of Arts in Special Education from Kean University, Cara pursued her passion by completing her Applied Behavior Analysis coursework at Caldwell University, earning her Board-Certified Behavior Analyst certification. Dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals.

Grandmaster Jae Ho Kim

Grandmaster Jae Ho Kim

As one of the most successful head coaches in the US, the National Taekwondo Team, Grand Master Jae Ho Kim has earned international recognition for his Taekwondo skills and teaching methods. He has over 35 years of teaching experience. At United Black Belt, all the instructors are dedicated to helping each student attain their personal best. Born in South Korea

Why Martial Arts for Special Needs Kids?

Martial arts have long been celebrated for instilling discipline, confidence, and physical fitness in practitioners. For children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), martial arts offer a unique and transformative experience that goes beyond physical training. These ancient practices provide structured environments, opportunities for social engagement, and tools for emotional regulation, making them an excellent therapeutic activity for children with ASD.

One key benefit of martial arts for children with ASD is the structured nature of the practice. Classes often follow a consistent routine: warm-ups, skill demonstrations, practice, and cool-downs. This predictability helps create a safe and comfortable environment where children can thrive. The precise rules and expectations reduce anxiety and provide a framework for understanding what comes next, which is particularly beneficial for children who struggle with transitions or unstructured activities.

Children with ASD often face challenges with motor skills and physical coordination. Martial arts provide a fun and engaging way to improve these abilities. Kicking, punching, and blocking exercises help develop gross motor skills, while intricate techniques and forms enhance fine motor coordination. Over time, children gain better body awareness, balance, and agility, which can translate to improved confidence in other areas of life.

WHY MARTIAL ARTS FOR SPECIAL NEEDS KIDS

SMYL-FIT Cofounders

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Atharva Tyagi

Atharva Tyagi ( Cofounder)

Atharva Tyagi is a 4th-degree black belt in Taekwondo, a martial art he has passionately pursued since he was 4. He trains at the prestigious United Black Belt School in Edison, NJ, under the mentorship of Grandmaster Jae Ho Kim and Master Eugene.

With over 500 hours of teaching experience, Atharva has dedicated the past 7 years to training and mentoring 450+ students, sharing his expertise and unwavering dedication to the discipline.

A highly decorated competitor, Atharva’s achievements include:

In recognition of his contributions to the community, Atharva has also been honored with:

Atharva’s unwavering commitment to excellence, both as a practitioner and an instructor, inspires and empowers students and peers alike.

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Connor Han

Connor Han ( Cofounder)

Connor Han is a 3rd-degree black belt in Taekwondo, a martial art he has passionately pursued since he was 4. He trains at the prestigious Young Moo taekwondo in Edison, NJ, under the mentorship of Grandmaster Dae Young Han. 

With over 1,000 hours of teaching experience, Connor has dedicated the past 12 years to training and mentoring children and adults, sharing his expertise and unwavering dedication to the discipline.

A highly decorated competitor, Connor’s achievements include:

In recognition of his contributions to the community, Connor has also been honored with:

Connor’s unwavering commitment to excellence, both as a practitioner and an instructor, inspires and empowers students and peers alike.

SMYL-FIT Team Members

Ojasvi

Yuqi Zhou

Yuqi Zhou is a highly dedicated senior instructor at United Black Belt in New Jersey. He trained as a Third-degree black belt under Grandmaster Jae Ho Kim and Master Eugene. He has practiced Taekwondo since age five and has worked diligently to ensure everyone can get the most out of their journey, contributing long hours of hard work and intense dedication.

Yuqi Zhou

Ojasvi

Ojasvi is a highly dedicated senior instructor at United Black Belt in New Jersey. She trained as a second-degree black belt under Grandmaster Jae Ho Kim and Master Eugene. She has practiced Taekwondo since the age of 8 and has worked diligently to ensure everyone can get the most out of their journey, contributing long hours of hard work and intense dedication.

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