335 Main St, Wilmington, MA 01887, United States of America

Questions? Call us: 978-447-1225

About Us

Step onto the mat at our top-notch martial arts academy where our community and elite instruction will guide you towards excellence in self-defense and fitness. Explore our diverse class offerings, and embrace the adventure of your transformation with us!

MEET Kru John Johnston

Owner & Head Instructor at Iron Clad Martial Arts Center

Kru John Johnson is a martial arts practitioner and self-defense instructor from Massachusetts with a wealth of experience in various disciplines. He has been practicing martial arts since 1979, when he began his journey as a student. As the owner and founder of Ironclad Martial Arts Center and Power Up Kickboxing, he teaches Muay Thai, Krav Maga, and other martial arts to students of all ages and levels. Kru Johnston holds the rank of 3rd degree black belt under grandmaster Bill "Superfoot" Wallace in the superfoot systems, and a blue belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. 



Notable achievements include:


  • Over 30+ years of experience in martial arts that include Tang Soo Do, Muay Thai, Krav Maga, MMA, Boxing, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
  • Holds the rank of 3rd degree black belt under grandmaster Bill "Superfoot" Wallace 
  • Blue belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
  • Hold the Rank of Kru in Muay Thai 
  • Certified instructor in Krav Maga
  • Trained with renowned instructors and fighters like Bill "Superfoot" Wallace, Kru Mark DellaGrotte, and Sensei Terry Dow.
  • Featured as a guest on Whistlekick Martial Arts Radio
  • Competed and won in various matches in Muay Thai, and MMA.
  • Holds the heavyweight MMA title for CES
  • Undefeated in both Muay Thai and MMA
  • Has helped hundreds of students achieve their personal and martial arts goals, such as self-defense, fitness, and confidence.

Kru Johnston is renowned for his dynamic teaching approach, patience, and profound insight into child development across various age groups. He has devoted his life to assisting students in achieving their personal and martial arts objectives, whether it be self-defense, fitness, confidence, or enjoyment. Through his unwavering passion for martial arts, Kru Johnston aims to positively transform lives, just as it has transformed his own.


Kru John Johnson is a seasoned martial artist who skillfully blends patience and clear instruction to help others hone their abilities in self-defense and combat sports. His commitment to the discipline has led him to achieve success both as a competitor and as an instructor.


Get to Know Us

IronClad Martial Arts Center is a renowned institution dedicated to providing exceptional martial arts training in a supportive and inclusive environment. Our experienced instructors are passionate about empowering students of all ages and skill levels to achieve their personal goals. At IronClad, we believe in fostering a strong community spirit while helping individuals unlock their true potential through the discipline and artistry of martial arts.

Our Training Philosophy

At IronClad Martial Arts Center, our training philosophy is rooted in the belief that martial arts is not just about physical prowess but also about personal growth and development. We focus on nurturing a well-rounded skillset in our students, encompassing mental, emotional, and physical aspects.


Our curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of various martial arts disciplines while emphasizing the importance of discipline, respect, and self-confidence. Through our personalized approach, we ensure each student receives the guidance and support necessary to reach their full potential, both on and off the mat.


Kimmie Cuscuna

Fitness Director

Meet our Director of Fitness, Kim Cuscuna. Kim has been with the Ironclad Team since October of 2015. It was at that time she also began training in Martial Arts under Kru John Johnston and developed a passion for Martial Arts. Kim has a deep-rooted love for fitness and helping others.


Notable Achievements:


  • 35 years of experience in the fitness industry
  • Trained in a multitude of health and fitness modalities
  • She has earned many certifications over the years


Certifications Include:

  • Group X Instructor
  • Weightlifting Resistance Training
  • Piloxing
  • Piloxing Knockout
  • BodyShred
  • Indoor Cycling
  • Yoga
  • Barre
  • Pilates
  • AFAA Nutrition
  • Kickboxing
  • Competition BodyBuilding Certified
  • ISSA Transformation Specialist
  • Sports Nutritionist
  • Strength and Conditioning Certified


In addition to her role as the Director of Fitness, teaching several classes a week, she also continues her love for Martial Arts training in Krav Maga, Muay Thai, and MMA. In 2020, she earned her Black Belt under Kru John and remains passionate about continuing her education and growth in Martial Arts.

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