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!“

“Our daughter started in the Tiny Tigers program, and we couldn’t be happier with our experience. Every instructor is disciplined, patient, and exceptional at making classes fun and engaging for young children, and the staff is always warm, accommodating, and flexible with make-up classes. In less than a year, we’ve seen an incredible improvement in her focus, discipline, respect, and confidence—not to mention they throw the best birthday parties!“

“I dropped in for the 12:15 PM open mat on Saturday. Vini, his students, and the front desk staff were all incredibly welcoming. I had some competitive rolls with his students and was soundly handled by Vini, the owner. He was also kind enough to work on a few things with me after the open mat, which I really appreciated. Looking forward to coming back.“

“My 2 kids go here and absolutely love it! The coaches are super nice and teach the kids well. I really recomend it, if your looking for a martial arts place. :)“

“Sensei Geoff is the head black belt guy there. He does a great job of commanding the mat full of students, kids & adults alike. He's able to run the big fun class with his teaching assistants. Sensei Geoff is a great communicator and the kids love him and his serious but goofy at times teaching style. This school does a good balance of fun & discipline. The best part is when he breaks down the moves so you really know what works.“

“Awesome place that I took my kids to introduce them the Jiu-Jitsu. Easy to find location, and the coaches and staff their are super friendly and welcoming. I am signing up both of my son's in the next two weeks!!!“

“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.“

“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.)“

“Skilled and gentle experts in training young children. The classes are a great blend of individual and group time. The lessons are taught in a fun, value-based way. Years later, and the confidence gained remains with our kid.“

“I’m 12 years old I do the junior class and I love it. I’ve been doing it for about 11 months and it has taught me discipline strength and of course martial arts. I have more confidence and I know I can defend myself. I’ve made so many friends here and definitely keep doing it. Thank you Gustavo Junior and Gustavo. You guys are great teachers.“

“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“

“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.“

“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 two daughters have been going to taekwondo here with teacher Mr. Drath for many years now. John Drath has been an amazing and inspiring teacher and has a great team to support him in teaching martial arts. Our family highly recommends his studio!“

“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.“

“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”“

“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.“

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

“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%“

“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!“

“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.“