Cookie preferences
We use essential cookies for sign-in and security. With your permission, we also use Plausible Analytics to understand how the site is used. See our Privacy Policy

Martial arts training that builds confident leaders and self-defense skills for life.
MATI (Martial Arts Training Institute) operates martial arts and karate schools across North and South Carolina, offering comprehensive training programs for students aged 5 and up. They provide karate courses, self-defense training, handgun courses, concealed carry classes, and specialized programs including teen handgun safety and women's self defense.
The organization is led by Sheriff Irwin Carmichael, the 44th Sheriff of Mecklenburg County, who brings law enforcement expertise to their training programs. Their mission centers on developing children into confident leaders through martial arts training that emphasizes self-defense, physical conditioning, and character development.
MATI creates lasting impact by building confidence, self-discipline, and leadership skills in young people that stay with them forever, similar to learning to swim. Their training helps children make better choices about friendships, handle peer pressure, and develop the confidence to protect themselves in dangerous situations. The organization aims to develop leaders who will positively influence their schools, homes, and communities.
MATI creates impact through comprehensive martial arts and self-defense training that builds lasting character traits in children and adults. Their programs focus on developing confidence, self-discipline, and leadership skills that students retain permanently, enabling them to make better life choices and handle challenging situations effectively.
The training produces specific behavioral outcomes including improved decision-making about friendships, increased ability to resist unhealthy peer pressure, and development of leadership qualities that extend into schools, homes, and communities. Students gain permanent self-defense capabilities and the confidence to protect themselves when confronted with danger.
Martial Arts Near Me | Martial Arts Training Institute Irwin Carmichael Martial Arts Near Me | Martial Arts Training Institute Charlotte/Huntersville, NC: (704) 392-8410 / Sheriff Irwin Carmichael (704) 391-9999 Home Handgun Courses Concealed Carry First Time Shooters Advanced Concealed Carry NRA Basic Handgun Course Teen Handgun Safety Class Reflex Protocol Karate Courses Karate MATI Locations Instructors MATI Huntersville Programs MATI Huntersville Events Photo Gallery Irwin Carmichael Women's Self Defense Farm/Venue CCH-Membership Click Here For Next Concealed Carry Class 4/26/2026 The Area's Premier Martial Arts Karate Schools.
Martial Arts Locations North & South Carolina's Concealed Carry Class. Concealed Carry Information Irwin Carmichael is the 44th Sheriff of Mecklenburg County. About Sheriff Carmichael Beginners 5 and up Monday's from 5:15-6:15pm The Basic Program is our first level of training membership to one day become a Black Belt leader.
It is our self-defense and physical conditioning program, designed to prepare a student for the commitment to become a Black Belt. B...

Self-Defense Skills
Students learn essential self-defense techniques that last a lifetime.
Confidence Building
Training instills confidence in students to handle peer pressure and personal challenges.
Leadership Development
Programs focus on cultivating leaders both in school and the community.
Free Trial Membership
New students can try a 2-week trial membership at no cost.
Focus areas
Locations