Martial Arts Schools near Lafayette

“My daughter has never been one to “yay let’s go do a high core physical activity “ kind of girl, so when I told her I wanted her to try a karate class she wasn’t too happy with me. Four months later and after that one class and she’s loving it! She can’t wait for class day and I can see her getting stronger and more and more confident with herself! Sensei Tom is very disciplined and fun with the kids and adults who take the classes. If you have a kid whom you want to really learn how to defend him or herself against anyone trying to harm them, this is the class. Best Sensei ever as my daughter says!“

“My kids went here for 6 yrs and we only left because we relocated to east coast. The owners are the best they treated us like family. My kids loved it here!“

“​My two daughters have been training here for over 2 years. The instructors are amazing and truly care about the kids. I've seen so much growth in their confidence and discipline. Highly recommend Daehan Martial Arts“

“I had a free 1 day trial with Shifu Peng & I enjoyed the discipline I am willing to increase strength as I rise & shine we all rise & shine like a diamond in the sky or sunny day within us ☀️“

“My 5 year old daughter has been at Essence for a few months and she loves practicing BJJ a few times a week. The coaches at BJJ are fantastic with children and I would highly recommend them!“

“We have been with Sensei Geoff at Mires Martial Arts for over 5 (Happy) years. Geoff was always outstanding with us and all the families we interacted with. He was always accommodating to our needs and schedules. His positive attitude with all the kids is something I have witnessed and know the kids will learn from. The atmosphere is so much fun that my kids are always happy to be there and truly enjoy learning their katas and sparring while having so much fun, a successful combo of learning and enjoying the experience. If you or your kids are contemplating a martial arts dojo, I would highly recommend Mires Martial Arts dojo.“

“Six Blades Oakland is hands-down one of the top jiu-jitsu academies in the entire San Francisco Bay Area ??

The energy here is unreal—driven, focused, and welcoming. You’re surrounded by people who are serious about rewiring their bodies and minds for the smoothest, most effective jiu-jitsu flow.

What really sets this place apart are the small, technical subtleties being taught—things that completely change your game. The kind of details you pick up here would take months (if not years) to uncover at bigger academies, where you rarely get that kind of personal attention.

There’s a real sense of lineage, integrity, and mastery on the mats, and the instructors truly see their students. That kind of guidance is rare. I’ll absolutely be back—and I can confidently say this place is a gem for anyone serious about evolving in the art.“

“My hubby goes to this place on regular basis and he really likes their approach. I also like the fact that he has not got any injury since he switched to this place. I recently attended their women self defense training. I was able to master a few techniques within one session and effectively beat my hubby at home! Very impressed! We plan to send our daughter there once they are able to expand the facility. I think it will be great for their confidence building.“

“The quality of any martial arts training depends largely on the dojo in which it is practiced. And the dojo is a reflection of the Sensei that leads it. Mikhail Sensei leads Alameda Iaido and Genwakan Iaido Dojō with such a humble grace, always putting his students first, regardless of rank or experience while exhibiting a true understanding and remarkable prowess with the sword. That, coupled with an unflagging dedication to the direct transmission of this 450 year old art form and a meticulous scrutiny in his own practice make Alameda Iaido and Genwakan Iaido dojō the perfect place to train, learn and grow as a martial artist interested in Japanese swordsmanship.Mikhail Sensei goes out of his way to help students achieve their maximum potential and has never ever allowed ego or pettiness to make its way into the dojo either on or off the mat. His encyclopedic knowledge of all things related to this school of swordsmanship is shared generously and I personally have benefitted many times from his kindnesses and learned from his example. And this same kindness and humility he shares with anyone who steps through the doors of the dojo.(The dojo is also affiliated with the Kokusai Renmei in Japan and thanks to Mikhail Sensei nurtures the Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu lineage through his regular attendance at seminars around the globe.)“

“Great group, flexible classes. Teachers are supportive and helpful. Overall, we've had a great experience!“

“I'm retired. I live in a fairly safe neighborhood. One evening, I'm walking my dog. I'd say we're only a mile or so from my home. About a hundred yards from us a stranger yells, "Nice dog." I reply, "Thank you." Smiling, he asks, "How much will you sell him for?" Surprised and somewhat flattered, I reply, "He's not for sale." Then with a blank facial expression, I believe he says something like, "Too bad, I might have to take him from you!" Not believing what was said, I said, "Excuse me?" Speaking with more conviction, he responds, "I might have to take him from you." Being street smart, I really don't know if I was more annoyed, stunned or amused. I always try to avoid confrontation because the worst-case scenario can always lead to violence. Now having been around the block a few times, I know that the last thing you do is to ignore a street challenge of confrontation. While walking toward him, I'm sizing him up. He's at least 35 years younger, 3 or 4 inches taller and at least 20 lbs. heavier. I doubt if he's in better shape but if he is, so what. Finally, I'm within arm's length. Even if he has a knife or gun, there's no doubt in my mind. I can take him. Training, preparation with confidence and real-life combat skills for the sometimes not so nice world we live in; that's what you'll get from Gustavo Desperetti, chief instructor and owner of Dogo Krav Maga. Family oriented, you'll find that he genuinely cares about your development and ability to protect yourself and loved ones. If you want straight forward self-defense instruction in a caring, supportive considerate environment, you need to check out Dogo Krav Maga. Gustavo is a Pro's Pro. I rate Dogo Krav Maga "5" because I can't rate it 10. Oh, and by the way, I still have my dog and about a week later, the guy in question walked across my path. I suppose for good reason, he acted as if he didn't see me.“

“I am a parent of a BAMA student and this is a great dojo to bring your kid to. Not only does this place help your kid build confidence but it also helps your kid control their emotions.“

“One school never changed!!! West Wind….?
My kids joined West-Wind in 2019 when we used to live in Oakland. Due to COVID our family moved to San Jose. My kids still attend Alameda school.
I enrolled my kids to develop self defense but school helped them to learn how to become a Great citizen. They share life lessons and experience with kids.
All teachers are great and very difficult to pick one, but My kids Master Mr. Baker is the best ?.
West-Wind school is like extended family and we feel fortunate that we found the perfect school.
Keep up the great work..Thank you“

“Aikido of Alamo is a fantastic dojo with a dedicated group of students and teachers. It's a private university education at community college prices. Has an active link to Hombu Dojo (the Aikido world headquarters in Tokyo) which gives you access to the thousands of dojos around the country & world - right in downtown Danville. New students of any age and more advanced students seem to gel easily. Highly recommended.“

“My son grew up to be a kind, respectful, confident, funny, strong yet gentle man. I thank Master Powell, under whose tutelage he was for 5 formative years. Master Powell was a powerful role model. A brilliant martial artist - beautiful to watch, a wonderful, loving teacher and super funny to boot.“

“Great instructors, they go all out for the kids. A great way to meet people in your community. Kids learn discipline and get a chance to meet/interact with new friends.“

“My son has learned so much in this karate class! Not only is he improving his skills, but he’s also learning respect, discipline, and important morals that he carries with him every day. The instructors are patient, supportive, and truly care about the kids. I’m grateful for the positive environment and the growth I’ve seen in my son. Highly recommend!“

“My kids have been practicing martial arts at America's Best Karate of Danville and enjoyed it a lot. My son started as a Karate A-Z student (led by Master Lerma), graduated the program and then continued as an ABK student. His younger sibling has trained Karate A-Z classes (led by Ms. Mulvey) and graduated the program. We moved out from the Bay Area and martial arts classes designed by Master Instructor Anthony Lerma are one of the things my family really miss. It was a challange to find a martial arts school that is focused on students character development, looks for various ways to keep students motivated, engaged and growing at individual pace. I really admired also their comprehensive and holistic approach - where well being, self care and practice were key to success of their students even outside of the martial arts. Master Lerma is a charismatic person, who has vast knowledge and practical experience and he developed a very comprehensive curriculum over the course of the decades.A year ago I enrolled as one of the first students of the new RBSD program, which is a self defence system designed and constantly developed by Master Lerma. Although we live abroad now, I have regular online classes and continue my journey with martial arts. The RBSD is a very practical system that allows one to feel confident in most of the real life situations. The idea of sets of basic eights helps memorise and establish proper reflexes to respond immediately to various threats no matter if they come from someone, who practices popular martial arts like kick boxing, bjj, mma, karate or someone who is simply experienced in street fights. Master Lerma proposes new drills regularly and changes the focus of our private classes so that, I can stay engaged, have fun and grow my skills. I fully recommend their school, ABK classes for kids and youths, and the RBSD system for adults.“

“The institute emphasizes important values beyond simply martial arts to cultivate good habits, growth, and humility while balancing them with activities that keep children entertained. They also promote mutual respect between genders and races while simultaneously explaining its reason for importance.“

“Thank YouFor changing my Sons Life. Giving the tools for self empowerment, self discipline with ability to become a Conquer .Thank You“ Best Mom Ever”“

“Master Jones it's a great human being. He is an inspiration and I have known him for about 10 years. I have 3 kids in his Taekwondo classes and all my kids admire him and loves going to the classes. Who ever has a chance to meet him or talk to him is a lucky person. I highly recommend signing up for his classes 100%“

“Matt Lucas is awesome! Great teacher and human being. The lessons are challenging and rewarding. Matt can modify the work outs based on your needs.“

“This exceptional school has been an integral part of my journey through various stages of life. It's not just about learning the art of cobalt, self-defense, and physical fitness; it's a profound experience of self-discovery, discipline, resilience, and the nurturing of moral values. Beyond honing my martial skills, this school has empowered me to tap into my inner potential. I wholeheartedly recommend it, not only for mastering combat and maintaining fitness but also for personal growth – an invaluable investment in your well-being and life's journey.“