For over four decades, Master Cristian Nelson has been a driving force behind the success and growth of National Karate & Martial Arts. As the owner of five thriving Illinois locations in Aurora, Bartlett, Elk Grove / Roselle, Naperville, and South Elgin, Master Nelson has dedicated his life to martial arts, shaping the next generation of martial artists with skill, discipline, and unwavering commitment. A Storied Martial Arts Journey
The young Cris Nelson
Master Cristian Nelson began his martial arts journey in 1983 at the age of 16 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, training under the expert tutelage of Grand Master John Worley, one of America’s most renowned martial artists. His passion and dedication led him to train with some of the top professional fighters of his time, including
National Karate instructors and Kickboxing Champions Scott Masterton, John Longstreet, and Terry Norblom. By 1987, Master Nelson had transitioned into teaching, quickly earning recognition for his leadership and expertise. In 1990, just a few years into his teaching career, he was presented with the prestigious “School of
“School of the Year” award in 1990
the Year” award. While shaping future martial artists, he simultaneously pursued higher education, studying Business and Communications at the University of Minnesota. A Champion in Sport Karate and Business Master Nelson’s competitive career was marked by success, particularly in sport karate fighting. In 1994, he earned the “Top Competitor Award” for sparring from the North Central Karate Association (N.C.K.A.).
Mr. Nelson featured in Action Sports Tae Kwon Do book
Also in the 1990’s, Master Nelson was invited to be part of a fun and exciting project aimed at inspiring young readers. He was featured in several extreme sports books published by Capstone Press, including Action Sports Tae Kwon Do, Action Sports Karate, and Action Sports Kickboxing. However, his ambitions extended beyond personal achievements—Seeing the profound impact National Karate’s martial arts system had on people’s lives, he was driven by a mission to bring this
Mr. Nelson teaching in the new Illinois school in 1995
life-changing system to as many individuals as possible, helping them become stronger, more confident, and successful in all aspects of life. So, in 1995, Master Nelson, with Grand Master Worley’s blessing, relocated to the Chicago suburbs to expand the National Karate organization to help a new market of people in Illinois. Over the years, his leadership and dedication have led to the establishment of five highly successful schools helping thousands of students reach their full potential and achieve their goals of personal growth. His efforts have earned numerous accolades, including:
- Instructor of the Year Award
- Six-time School of Champions Award Winner
- Eight-time School of the Year Award Winner
- 2005 John Worley Leadership Award for Organizational Excellence
Mr. Nelson presented with the John Worley Leadership Award
- 2023 Runner-Up Business of the Year (South Elgin, IL)
- 2024 Best Martial Arts Studio in the Chicago Suburbs (13 consecutive years, as voted by Daily Herald readers)
Commitment to Excellence and Faith Currently, Master Nelson oversees the training of over 1,000 students and provides advanced instruction to 30 instructors and staff. His schools have reached an incredible milestone, promoting over 2,000 students to First-Degree Black Belt as of June 2024. Beyond his local impact, he has had the privilege of teaching martial arts on
Karate Class in Romania
mission trips to Singapore, Romania, and Austria. In January 2020, Master Nelson achieved the distinguished rank of 8th-degree black belt, making him the 3rd highest-ranking black belt in the National Karate organization of 14,000 black belts! Despite his extensive achievements, he remains humble, crediting his success to God’s grace and the exceptional team of Directors and instructors who support him. Master Nelson and his wife, Kelly—a 3rd-degree black belt—live in the western suburbs of Chicago,
Mr. Nelson and his wife Kelly with Grand Master Worley
where they have raised their four children. His passion for teaching remains as strong as ever: “Even after all these years, when I’m teaching, it doesn’t seem like work to me. I still enjoy it now as much as when I taught my first class.” A Lasting Legacy Through decades of dedication, Master Cristian Nelson has shaped the Illinois National Karate schools into a pillar of martial arts excellence. His influence extends beyond the dojo, instilling confidence, discipline, and perseverance in thousands of students. As he continues to lead, teach, and inspire, his impact on the martial arts community remains immeasurable.
“Even after all these years, when I’m teaching, it doesn’t seem like work to me. I still enjoy it now as much as when I taught my first class.” C. Nelson
