Martial Arts Schools near Orinda

“My kid has special needs and I am so thrilled to find this place. Mr. Drath and Mr. Gurung are so wonderful. I see a lot of improvement my kid is making. I truly appreciate what they have done to help my kid.“

“We’ve been going to Dae Han for 4 years now and can’t say enough positive things about the entire staff here. They are kind, knowledgeable and I’m constantly amazed at how much patience they practice towards the students. Highly recommend for anyone at any age looking to building confidence and discipline, while learning martial arts skills.“

“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 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.“

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

“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.)“

“I have a 7 and 9yo sons who attend EBJI. They both absolutely love it. Just recently my 9yo, who also does Soccer, told me when he fell on the pitch he was able to protect his head which was a direct result of his training at EBJI. The instruction and practices at EBJI are top notch. They don't only teach the Judo from the basics to advanced levels but they also teach values and ethics for everyday life. If you are thinking about getting your child into martial arts I highly recommend you try EBJI. Everyone I've contacted with EBJI has been very friendly and accommodating.“

“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.“

“The level of skill and professionalism that Feder Sensei demonstrates is second to none. And this reflects through the actions of her Deshi and students. The moment you walk in the door, you feel welcome and a positive enenrgy that makes you feel at ease. Like coming "home". One of the best places world to study Aikido and Budo.“

“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“

“I have been going there for 7years. Gabby the owner not only is my teacher but has become my friend. The community of KMX is awesome some of the most amazing people I have met. As someone with a Karate background it is good to do a self defense style of fighting than a tournament style of fighting. This is a useful system for everyone.“

“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!“

“Thank you for your good stuffs and for your good facilities for athletes. and I happy ? to have the membership of this Gym.“

“This is a fantastic place for kids to learn martial arts and grow self confidence, self control and respect for others. My son has only been going for a month so far but he is really enjoying it and I love watching him grow here. The senseis at BAMA teach martial arts in a safe and fun way that is tailored to each child's age. Couldn't recommend it more.“

“Sensei Diamantstein is very passionate, professional, knowledgeable, kind, and wise! ?I am so grateful to become sensei’s student, and all the senpai are very nice and supportive as well!Through the practice, you would learn not only physical but also mental techniques that apply to your everyday life.And don’t worry about not having any martial art background. Sensei and senpai will guide you patiently!If you want to learn the decent art of Japanese iaido, here is the judo for you!“

“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 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 LOVE Studio Naga! My 4 year old started training here a few weeks ago and it's been an extremely positive experience. The teachers are exceptional at what they do-- paying attention can be challenging for a 4 year old, but my kiddo has been able to navigate his training with ease and confidence thanks to his two incredible teachers. Every instructor I've met clearly loves their students and their discipline. And the community they've built is honestly inspiring. Although we're still relatively new here, we've felt instantly welcomed, without any undue pressure to participate in the studio-organized events (like community service projects or potlucks. Although we've found we've wanted to participate in everything because we just love everyone!). A few specific things that stood out to me soon after we joined: - I have a name that's pretty hard to pronounce and remember, yet since we've joined, every instructor I've met has remembered me and my family and greeted us by name. A little thing that means a lot. :) - On Juneteenth they hosted a circle where all the students sat together to learn about the holiday's history, and discuss how to be supportive community members. I noticed that the younger voices in the circle were listened to and respected just the same as the older ones. Then everyone split up to pick up trash in a local park, and they reconvened for popsicles and games. In an environment like this, it's no surprise to me that many folks who join Studio Naga as young children continue to train here well into adulthood. - Their value of empowering students to support and teach each other is very evident. I noticed that even after just a couple classes my son started patiently teaching his younger sister very much in the style of his Studio Naga teachers. Amazing. Said 4 year old just walked by and asked what I was typing about. I told him, and asked if he wanted to add anything. Here's what he said, word for word: "I love my martial arts class sooo much! I wish I could go there all day. I really love Studio Naga. I do love it, and I hope you can come here, so if you want to email then tap on email and then the email will send it! Bye! Done." TLDR: send your kiddos here (or attend trainings yourself!) if you want an empowering learning experience in a strong community.“

“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.“

“Great Instructors, they really care about individual students and are actually here to teach Karate, it feels like a small family with great instruction I will continue classes with both my kids A+“

“Legendary martial art practice located in a humble area of El Cerritos. Team of excellent staff. I myself have never taken a class there, but have met the teachers in other settings - Buddhist temples, and community service. You are in good place. Worth a visit.“

“Love the dojo, and love the Sensei, she's a gifted teacher.And with the virus closing everything down, she's switched to Zoom, which is less than ideal but one hell of a lot better than nothing...“

“I studied under Professor Solis from 1991-1996 and received my Black Belt which changed my life in a very positive way.He has many years of experience helping children and adults alike to build their skill, knowledge, and confidence.Do your best, and you will make vast improvements in your character, spirit and physicality.“