We had the good fortune of connecting with Al Loren and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Al, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
I have been teaching Martial Arts to Kids and Adults with Autism and many other Disabilities for 33 years. During that period I have taught thousands of classes to many hundreds of students in these areas.
The progress and Social, Physical and emotional enhancement have been very favorable. The methods and philosophies taught have been most beneficial for a large portion of my students. They have gotten stronger physically, gained a sense of accomplishment, have learned Self Defense, feel more confident and capable and improved their social skills and interpersonal relationships. The Book that I’ve written: Martial Arts on the Autism Spectrum-Practical Tips from Three Decades of Training Kids and Adults is a strong testimony to these positive Benefits. I have also taught over 15,00 Tai Chi Classes to Seniors in my career, with most of the people in their eighties and nineties. They have benefited by improved Balance, concentration and overall sense of physical stamina and well being.
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What should our readers know about your business?
I have a very unique business. I teach Martial Arts to Kids, Teens, Adults, Women’s Self Defense Trainings and Classes, Martial Arts to all ages on the Autism Spectrum, down visually impaired and other Disabilities. In addition, I teach Tai Chi, specializing with Seniors. In my career I have taught over 35,000 classes.
I’m located in Marin County, California and am well known for my work with Autism and other Disabilities. I get regular referrals from Doctors, Physical therapists, Occupational therapists to work with Autism. I teach Tai Chi at 6 Retirement Residential Facilities. My skills are utilized with independent living, assisted living and Skilled Nursing departments. I also teach Seniors at 2 City Community Centers.
I have a Martial Arts program that works with a preschool Montessori school.
I also have a contingent of private one on one students, where I go to their homes. Right now, most of these privates are working with all ages of people on the Autism Spectrum.
I have achieved this very busy and full Practice through almost 45 years of a variety of Martial Arts practices. This includes Karate, Kung Fu, Ju Jitsu, Akido and Tai Chi. My college education has always helped me with my ability to present cohesive, well-designed programs and presentation. I built my Practice from the ground up by teaching at Health Clubs, Community Education, Private Schools. I’ve given many lectures and demonstrations, especially in the early years. As my Business has grown and evolved over 33 years, I’m now in the position to teach and take the work that excites and stimulates me.
I want the World to know that my work makes a positive difference health wise with my students of all ages. This age range goes from 3 yrs. to my oldest at 107 years old and numerous other centenarians that I teach on a weekly basis.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would take my Friend hiking in the hills of Mill Valley and San Rafael. There are beautiful trails with waterfalls and incredible views of the San Francisco Bay. I would also take them to wine country, the Sonoma and Napa Valleys and go to some of the Wineries. In addition, I would go to Santa Cruz, which is a surfer’s town and a very fun and active beach town. From there down to Monterey and Carmel. These are two of the most pristine and aesthetically beautiful beach towns.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are several people who have been influential in my journey. Most important is my wife Jennifer who has always believed in me and my abilities to teach and be successful both economically and to really help others to unlock their abilities. Especially in the demographic of Autism and other Disabilities. She emphasized my Patience, Compassion, Education and Skill level to make a positive impact and do this as a career.
Two of my Martial Arts teachers also had a profound influence on my direction. Ridgley Able was the Teacher who promoted meto Black Belt in 1987. He made me believe that there was a teaching future for me in Martial Arts if I chose that path. Also Robert Trias who was a true legend and pioneer in Martial Arts in this country, was a role model for me with his established following and teaching. Both of these men were nationally and internationally known for their contributions and greatness within the Martial Arts world and beyond.
Website: https://Allorenmartialarts.com
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