Karate and Grappling Mat Testimonial: Treger Studio of Martial Arts

For the last two years, USSSA Tae Kwon Do National Director and United States Karate Do Association Board of Director member Larry Treger has used Greatmats martial arts mats at his school in Highland, Michigan.

With more than 40 years of experience in both martial arts and teaching, Larry and his Wife Elizabeth have been running Treger Studio of Martial Arts for the past 11 years where they offer classes in Shudokan, Tae Kwon Do and BJJ. Starting kids as early as age 2 ½ the Tregers have developed strong tournament and demo teams and have built a reputation for community involvement.

In 2017, they began researching new mats for the school online and came across Greatmats.com where decided to purchase two different kinds of puzzle mats - 1.5 inch thick Grappling mats and 1 inch thick Karate mats.


“We needed a solid mat for our program to handle falls, rolls and throws and the 1.5 inch (mats) are perfect,” Larry said.

He was also impressed with the grappling mats’ ability to “provide strength” for the stand up program, noting that soft mats would not work well for kicking.

“The 1 inch mats we use for private lessons in our smaller space and tournaments,” he added. “Both size mats are still as firm as when we purchased them. When I’m ready to replace them, the process will be easy. I’m glad I made the choice to purchase the products.”

About the Tregers

Larry is a 6th Degree black belt who began his instruction in Tang Soo Do under Master Dale Tompkins. The late Grand Master Ki Whang Kim later fueled Larry’s competitive spirit and started his lifetime martial arts journey, which included becoming a certified AAU coach and a 2016 induction into the Master’s Hall of Fame.

Elizabeth is a 5th degree black belt with more than 20 years of experience under her belt. She built her Tae Kwon Do foundation under the instruction of Master Marcella Byrd.

Larry and Elizabeth Treger

Treger Studio of Martial Arts

Highland MI 48357