Tamaya Goodwin Martial Arts Instructor Written by: Alvina Peralta and Jennifer Lunn
Tamaya Goodwin, owner and instructor at TNT Martial Arts, has had experience in the martial arts field for over 15 years. She describes her passion as not only a fun way to get fit but also a way to learn self-defense and develop strong character. She teaches from a range of youth to adults a variety of fields such as kickboxing, mixed martial arts and karate (which she has a triple black belt in). At just 9 years old, Tamaya and her brother were put in martial arts. She attended karate classes and discovered it was her passion. She trained throughout college where she also started teaching martial arts.
The studio was very welcoming with plenty of staff on hand to welcome new students and help them get settled in. Tamayah is very friendly and funny. As a new student, I felt open to ask questions and received friendly correction with new moves. The students were a mix of new and seasoned. Young and old. Mostly women. Tamayah just had a baby two months ago and you'd never know it! Her students said she was teaching up until the end of her pregnancy and two weeks after she had the baby! She is down to earth, but also tough. This combination allows her students ability to jump right into this traditionally male dominated sport.
Q: What made you choose to reside in South Carolina?
A: I was born in South Carolina with military parents. I also attended the University of South Carolina before deciding to focus on my passion for martial arts and turning it into a career. My father retired here in South Carolina so I just decided to stay.
Q: What are your current goals you are striving to achieve?
A: I am trying to save money by not eating out as often. In addition to this I’m also striving for a healthier diet.
Q: What is your favorite food? A: Sushi! My favorite place to eat it is at Inakaya in Columbia.
Q: Do you own any pets? A: Yes! I have one black lab named Midnight that we rescued 2 years ago.
Q: Do you plan on venturing off in the near future and expanding your business? A: I am open to a lot of different things and opportunities in the future regarding expanding my business. But my priority right now is to keep going as long as I can and doing what I love to do. TNT Martial Arts opened in Cayce, South Carolina 9 short months ago, and I just had my first baby December 16th.
