After winning a gold medal in the US National Kuoshu championships and fighting as a member of the US Kung Fu team, Gary Berger decided to bring his skills back stateside. Classes started small, but Gary slowly began attracting both students and instructors until his humble operation became the Baltimore Martial Arts Academy. Under Gary's direction, the center now offers an extensive martial arts curriculum in styles such as muay thai, kung fu, aikido, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Coach Gary cultivates an environment based on respect, hard work, and personal growth, where criticism is frowned upon and egos are checked at the door along with oversized suitcases. Gary’s wife Danyelle heads up instructions for the gym's fitness classes, which include kettlebell, and kickboxing. Between its many martial arts offerings and more general fitness classes, BMAA boasts a diverse student body, including athletes, casual exercisers looking to manage weight, and even children with physical or mental disabilities taking part in Coach Gary’s special needs classes.