INSTRUCTORS

In 1977 Master Gary Baylor began his life in the martial arts by studying the art of Tae Kwon-Do under Grand Master Tae Hee Yi (Lee) from Korea. It was under Master Lee that he earned the rank of Black Belt in May of 1980. Recognizing Gary’s talent, Master Lee enlisted his services as an instructor at schools in New Haven and North Haven, CT. In 1987 Gary developed and taught martial arts programs for the Cheshire Acrobatics Training School, the Y.M.C.A., and Albertus Magnus College. It was in 1990 that he began teaching for the Cheshire Park & Recreation Department until 2007. He is actively affiliated with the Canadian-based organization, “Unified Tae Kwon-Do International,” which is under the direction of Grand Master and Founder Scott Kopperud. Currently he is the acting State of Connecticut representative for U.T.I.

Wanting to further his education in the martial arts, in 1990 Gary started training locally in the art of Hapkido. Enjoying this form of Martial Art as well, he became affiliated with the renowned organization “Hapkido International.” To this day Gary continues to further his education in the art of Hapkido under the direction of Grand Master Gottfried Roser (Jeff Allen) and is currently affiliated with the International Hapkiyoosool Federation. He currently holds his 3rd Dan Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do and his 5th Dan Black Belt in Hapkido along with an International Master Instructors accreditation.

Master Gary is uniquely sensitive to all his students and seeks to develop within each student her/his full potential. For Gary, martial arts is much more than a form of self-defense and means to physical fitness. They develop self-esteem and promote a healthy respect for others. It is these traits and beliefs that make Master Gary Baylor so well-known and liked by those who know him and have studied with him.

Michelle has a passion for living a physically active lifestyle and believes that a healthy body will greatly improve any individual’s quality of life. Her goal is to inspire and educate you with the necessary tools you'll need to make a permanent and positive lifestyle change. Michelle will provide the accountability and knowledge you need to be successful on your journey. Encouraging clients through coaching, she believes in keeping the workouts varied to continue to see positive changes and also keep the workouts fun.

Jonathan Baylor began his training in the art of Tae Kwon Do under his father in 1993 at the age of 5. At the age of 13 he started studying the art of Hapkido and has been teaching alongside his father for more than 12 years. He currently holds a 1st Dan Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do and a 4th Dan Black Belt in Hapkido. Jonathan has earned his personal training certification through the AFAA and received his Associate’s Degree in Exercise Science & Wellness. He has created a superlative 12 week fitness program called "Optimal Body Training" and has personally helped many students lose weight and elevate their level of fitness.