Martial Arts Schools near National City

“This is a great school to learn Modern Arnis, a Filipino Martial Art. Grandmaster and the instructors are fun and knowleable. The environment is family friendly and they welcome you with open arms. I highly recommend. Its also a great way to get in shape and learn self-defense on multiple fronts. Give them a try.“

“Great coach for the little ones. I been through three different schools of jiujitsu in Chula Vista and never seen this type of connection and understanding between professor and student.“

“My son, who has ADHD and is on the spectrum, has been attending White Dragon for about seven years. After taking about a year off, he realized how much he missed it and chose to return. Mr. Espinoza and Mr. Truong have been wonderful with him—patient, supportive, and encouraging. We would highly recommend White Dragon; everyone there truly feels like family.“

“The House of Discipline has been a blessing to me and my family. I started off enrolling my daughter in the evening class with Mr. De La Rosa. She hated it. She cried every night for about 2 weeks. So I then joined his early morning 8am women's workout class, to show my daughter it wasn't that bad. ??? The joke was on me beause Sensei as I call him KICKED MY BUTT!!! That class was SOOO hard, I found myself crying. I didn't show fear or tears during the class but in the car I would ask myself what I was doing. I would pray before class everyday and question why I came. But the more I went and the harder he pushed the more and more I became stronger in myself knowing that my body did not control me I controlled me. I reciprocated that to my daughter as well. After 2 weeks she was EXCITED to go to class. We started taking classes in July 2024. She has been consistent since July. We are in February 2025. I slacked in November and December, but I came back January 2025. It's been real but I would not have chosen a better place to work out. Mentally, physically, and supportively House of Discipline is the place. The staff is top tier. It's definitely A FAMILY. Sensei (Mr. Dela Rosa) is tight as my mom would say, but he's RIGHT. You don't want someone who you can walk over who is helping you work out, you want someone who will help you excel to the goal you have set . House of Discipline will help you reach your potential and beyond. I saw results in a month. Consistency is key. The program that is in place for the kids is definitely one that I have never seen before. My daughter is pushed to gain not only physical knowledge but common sense and thinking skills. I teach those things but to have someone else help push those skills is SOOOO important because the schools don't do that anymore. If you need a village House of Discipline is the VILLAGE. Thank you House of Discipline for the extension of FAMILY. ?“

“Coming to Extreme power gym has been such a fulfilling experience. I moved to the area recently and was hopeful to find a good gym, what I found at Extreme Power is a not just a gym but a school, a teacher of true Muay Thai, a community of students who are welcoming and kind and present as true martial artist. I love seeing younger students learning this art. Ahjan Rueben is everything I want in a teacher/instructor. At extreme power gym, I’ve noticed that it’s not about fighting it’s about self development. If you’re looking for good training, you find it here, if you’re looking for good sparring, you’ll find it here. His students are all well trained and respectful, and that is the number one sign of a place you’ll want to be a part of. Extreme Power and Ahjan Rueben check all the right boxes for a solid environment to develop.“

“My daughter has been attending for almost two months now, and the teacher is absolutely amazing. The helpers are wonderful too! My daughter is very shy, but they’ve really worked with her to make her feel comfortable in class. She doesn’t talk much during lessons, but she keeps up well. When she needs extra help, the teacher takes the time to work with her during or after class.

Even with a class full of students, he’s incredibly patient and clearly passionate about his work. The only thing I wish is that the kids could practice their techniques more with each other, but overall, the classes are fantastic!“

“Training at Gracie Barra San Ysidro has been amazing! ? The coaches are super patient, the vibe is like family, and everyone feels welcome. Flexible schedules make it easy to fit in, and as a woman, I love how safe and empowering it feels. Highly recommend! ?✨“

“Highly recommend this gym! My autistic son has thrived here and the coaches are so friendly and assertive at the same time creating a great learning environment for all kids with and without special learning differences. We have made great long lasting friendships with other parents as well. Overall just an amazing community of fighters who truly care❤️“

“This is such a great school. Contramestre Massapê is very dedicated. He will do everything to make sure you learn all the good foundations and build a great technique for capoeira. At this school, you will immerse yourself and learn all the aspects of capoeira, including its history, songs, and instruments. Plus, the community is very diverse, friendly, and supportive“

“Excellent training academy for martial arts. Grand Master Kim focuses on respect, hard work, and excellence, yet is a very approachable and kind instructor. The perfect balance between being strict yet very caring. The students learn so much in class, and get an amazing workout. Plus I believe the lessons help them excel at school and in life. Highly recommend.“

“After combing through many studios attempting to locate the right fit for my kids schedule and instruction, we found that Blue Dragons or now known as The American Combat Academy was it. No other studio we visited with was offering what this one can; Classes six days a week, multiple disciplines, adult and youth classes, and a smaller more intimate class training environment. Professor Tony and his master instructors are true professionals to thier craft. I have entrusted them for over two years now and I will never regret the decision I made to enroll both my daughter and son. They both have flourished under the leadership of this studio. They have made life long friendships and have made tremendous strides in learning both the arts of Taekwondo and Jui Jitsu. Both of my children regularly compete in Jui Jitsu competitions nationally. They have been recognized as State and World Jui Jitsu champions, all thanks to Professor Tony and his amazing staff of instructors. This is the place! Don't waist anymore time or money anywhere else, come in and check it out. Your kids will thank you later!“

“Experienced and dedicated instructors teach traditional Shotokan karate at this dojo of Shotokan Karate of America. Dojo members have different backgrounds and skill levels, but all share an honest attitude, strong mentality, and a desire to learn and understand their martial art.

I was looking for a new karate dojo in 2009 after moving to the U.S. and having taken a break from practice for several years. At this dojo I immediately found a new home, new friends, new motivation, and a journey that is continuing to this day.

If you're thinking about trying karate or trying a new dojo, I highly recommend visiting San Diego Peninsula Shotokan Karate Dojo. You will not be disappointed.“

“Had an amazing experience at this martial arts school! The instructors are knowledgeable and patient, and the facilities are top-notch. Highly recommend to anyone looking to improve their martial arts skills.“

“Sam is a great teacher! My son has really enjoyed his tkd classes here. He has felt well supported, learned to defend himself and has developed more self-confidence.“

“Shito-ryū (JKA) is the best kárate option to improve your mind, your spirit, your footwork, etc, etc. The way Sensei Sherry teaches is the best for a true karateka, as she teaches Kumite techniques, how to strike, kick, and block properly. And remember, believe that you can achieve what you've always dreamed of (whether it's becoming a professional athlete, a philosopher, a sensei, or anything else) as long as you work hard, because karate isn't just a martial art, it's a way of life ???“

“My son Tom has been a part of this amazing dojo for four years and is training in Karate, Judo, and sparing. He spends six hour a week learning and training under an amazing team. Thank you Sensei Frank, Sensei Royce, and Senpai Dustin for all your hard work and dedication.

I can truly say that this is one of the most important things shaping and developing Tom to be a well rounded, confident, and honorable person.

I highly, highly recommend this Dojo to anyone looking to better themselves. Sensei Frank has created an incredible community.

Thank you!!!“

“One of the oldest dojo in San Diego, Jiai Aikido has more than 20 years of proven track record under multiple teachers. Frequently visited and recommended by the executive director of Shimbokukai and several members of the international aikido community, Jiai boasts two Shidoin as the primary sensei, and a wealth of knowledge from the senior students. And while the lineage, longevity, and accomplished nature of the dojo is what drew me in, the diversity and inclusiveness and community are what keep me coming back. Cat Strada-sensei brings a direct approach: often explaining with practical applications, and technical precision the whys and hows of the techniques. Her inclusion of Systema on some of the Sunday classes hold an emphasis on conditioning and practical functionality, and while not aikido in the strictest sense, adds a certain fluid functionality which both draws from and expounds upon the main stem of aikido. Tom Liu-sensei has a more esoteric focus, and his subtle arts provide world-shifting perspectives as an effective counterpoint. The students in their classes, both the beginners and the other black belts, are welcome, friendly, and helpful. All in all, it is a wonderful, welcoming dojo, with an impressive array of skills, that avoids the typical traps of stuffy formality while still providing structure and excellent instruction. It might not be for everyone, but it is exactly what I was looking for.“

“As a student that has been through the transfer of ownership. Grand Master Yoon has been great, but he always makes sure that people have fun but also makes sure to keep us professional. They make sure you feel confidence and they train your endurance and flexibility. All around versatile. (Teaches a little bit of self defense in the grappling field.)“

“My daughter has been coming to this studio for almost a year. She loves it! Her mental and physical discipline has improved so much. Instead of not knowing how to harness her own strength, she's become more observant of her surroundings and precise with her movements. She also comes home tired from her Kung Fu class, which is wonderful because she has so much energy.
I also enjoy and respect the way Sifu speaks to the kids. His language, choice of words, and his guidance is something that kids need more of these days. I'm grateful for his knowledge and the way he shares that with the youth.
I highly recommend this studio for kids (or even young adults) who need focus, strength, discipline, wisdom, and just a fun way to exert the body.“

“Thank you, Grandmaster Bill Helm & students, for allowing me to experience the Chen style of Tai Chi during my short stay in San Diego . I would recommend this school to anyone interested in Chen Tai Chi. Health & Longevity to you all.“

“Great School. Great learning experience for my daughter. She's learned so much not only skills wise but behavior and mental abilities as well. She's learned to be more self disciplined and I'm very thankful she has had and continues to have good experiences from Judo here at this Dojo.“

“?
The best Tang Soo Do Karate institute in SD.???
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✅ Mrs. Leislie and Mrs. Larry are excellent teachers, they have a lot of discipline, their classes are quality, they are professional and patient with children, they have many years of experience.
✅ The studio is large, comfortable and clean.
✅ It has many students in its different categories. Something that is very good for children.
✅ There is plenty of parking.
✅ Class prices are affordable.
✅ Participation in tournaments.??
✅ It is a very pleasant environment.
✅ Free trial class.

⭐️We are very happy to have found this institute, our children have learned a lot and developed new skills and are more confident. It has helped them focus more on school and their activities.

Thanks for everything! ??Tang Soo!“

“San Diego Aikikai has been the institution to represent traditional Japanese style teaching of Aikido in San Diego. Aikido is a martial art and as such has a martial approach in it's philosophy, but one of the tenets is to seek ways to avoid conflict. This dojo and the instructors associated with it represent that philosophy as passed down from our principal instructors.“

“This place is great because of the people! The Sensei’s are well loved and respected by the students and the students are full of energy and excitement. Highly recommend this dojo.“

“Allied Gardens Tang Soo Do has been an incredible experience for our family. My 6-year-old daughter started just a couple of months ago and recently earned her orange belt — she absolutely loves it here! She also does ballet and gymnastics, and it’s amazing how Tang Soo Do complements those activities by building her strength, focus, and confidence.
Master Kenneth Purnell runs the program with tremendous skill and compassion — he has a true command of the class while meeting kids where they are. Master Patrick Marsch and Master Clare Marsch are also outstanding instructors and role models, showing patience and encouragement with every student. The balance of discipline, respect, and warmth at this studio is rare, and highly recommend it to any family looking for both excellent martial arts training and a positive, supportive community.“