Local Business Spotlight: Accrete Martial Arts

This Patch article is sponsored by Accrete Martial Arts.

Local businesses are the heart of our communities. Patch had a chance to talk with Mike Dorothy, Owner, of Accrete Martial Arts.

Patch: Tell us a bit about your business or organization:
Mike Dorothy: Accrete Martial Arts is a welcoming, family-focused school in Bowie, Maryland, offering expert instruction in Tang Soo Do, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and self-defense. With over 30 years of experience, we focus on building confidence, discipline, and community through engaging classes for kids, teens, and adults. Our programs blend tradition and innovation, emphasizing personal growth, self-defense, and physical fitness. We also offer Impact Fitness, a high-energy, self-defense-based fitness class designed to build strength, stamina, and practical skills in a fun, empowering environment. Beyond the mat, we host inclusive events like seminars and seasonal celebrations to bring families together and strengthen our local ties. At Accrete, we’re not just teaching techniques—we’re building a stronger, more empowered community.

Patch: How long have you been doing business in town?
Mike Dorothy: While our current facility in Bowie, Maryland opened just over a year ago, Accrete Martial Arts is built on over 30 years of coaching experience and community involvement.

Patch: What attracted you to the line of work you’re in, and how did you get started?
Mike Dorothy: I got started in martial arts as a kid, inspired by the discipline, confidence, and yes—those pizza-loving Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. What began as childhood fascination quickly grew into a lifelong passion for training and teaching. All of our coaches at Accrete Martial Arts started young, and that shared journey fuels our commitment to helping others grow stronger, both physically and mentally. We love what we do, and it shows in every class, every student, and every community event we host.

Patch: What's the most common piece of advice you give to customers?
Mike Dorothy: "Just get one percent better every time you show up.” Progress doesn’t have to be dramatic—it’s about small, consistent improvements that add up over time. Whether it’s technique, mindset, or confidence, that one percent makes all the difference.

Patch: What’s the most satisfying part of your job?
Mike Dorothy: The most satisfying part of my job is watching students grow—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Seeing a shy child become confident, or a teen discover their strength and leadership, is incredibly rewarding. Whether it’s a breakthrough on the mat or a moment of connection at an event, those transformations remind me why I do this. Helping people feel empowered and supported is the best part of every day.

Patch: How would you say your business or organization distinguishes itself from the others?
Mike Dorothy: Accrete Martial Arts stands out because of our deep roots and practical approach. All of our coaches started as kids in martial arts, so we understand the journey from the inside out. Our curriculum isn’t built with fluff—it’s tested, proven, and designed to work in real-life situations. We combine decades of experience with a fresh, welcoming atmosphere in our new facility, offering traditional martial arts, self-defense-based fitness, and inclusive community events. Our focus isn’t just on technique—it’s on building confidence, connection, and lifelong growth for every student and family we serve.

Patch: How can Patch readers learn more about your work and business?
Mike Dorothy: Visit our website at accretemartialarts.com, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram