Martial Arts Schools near Orinda

“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.“

“​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“

“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!“

“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!“

“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.)“

“My daughter absolutely loves Sama Academy! After trying several different sports, this is the only place where she has truly stayed consistent and excited to attend. We are always welcomed like family, and every sensei here is beyond amazing. We are so proud of her progress and can’t wait to see her earn her black belt here!
-Sobol Family“

“More than twenty years ago, I had the opportunity to take judo at San Francisco State University under Professor Matsumoto. At a time when my life felt pulled in many directions by school, relationships, and everyday pressures, his class became a place of balance and peace for me. I was truly amazed by the effect judo had on my mind and spirit. It brought a therapeutic calm and a sense of clarity that helped me find my center during a very formative time in my life.

I often wish I had continued training after graduating from SFSU. Life moved on quickly, but the lessons stayed with me. Now, years later, I’ve been given a second chance through my five-year-old daughter. When she became old enough, I enrolled her at The East Bay Judo Institute, and the changes I’ve seen in her have been incredibly meaningful. Since starting classes, she has become more disciplined, calm, and thoughtful—qualities that extend well beyond the dojo.

From the very beginning, our family has been welcomed with genuine warmth and kindness. The school feels less like a place to train and more like a family, rooted in an age-old tradition that I am deeply humbled to be part of. In January, my fiancée will also begin classes, making this journey something we now share as a family.

The Matsumoto family is widely respected throughout the community, having taught and influenced so many instructors in the area. They truly are the cornerstone of the judo community, carrying forward not just the art itself, but its values of respect, discipline, and humility.

I am sincerely grateful for everything Professor David Matsumoto has given to me and now to my family. It is an incredible honor that my daughter has the privilege of learning from his daughter, Sayaka Matsumoto, who represented the United States in the 2008 Olympics and continues the family’s remarkable legacy.

My family and I are deeply honored and thankful to be part of such a special and meaningful institution.

Anthony Di Donato“

“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 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.“

“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 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.“

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

“I just wanted to share a little bit about my experience with Solis. My 6-year-old son has been attending classes there for over a year now, and it has been such a positive experience for him. It's a perfect outlet for him after school, providing him with great exercise and a chance to burn off some energy.

But it's not just about physical activity – the instructors at Solis do an amazing job teaching discipline and encouraging good behavior. They consistently talk to the kids about how important it is to behave well at home and in the studio, which is a wonderful reinforcement of the values we teach at home.

Overall, I couldn't be happier with our choice to enroll our child at Solis. It's been a fantastic experience for our family.“

“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!“

“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!“

“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 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!“

“This dojo brings together some of the best people and practitioners of Aikido. From the kids' class to the adults, expect nothing but excellence and kindness.“

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

“Former student of about 2 years (on and off). Sije Yuka and the senior students always made me feel welcomed and safe whenever I came to class.

We’d go through drills and simulations to stress-test the techniques we were learning. Sije Yuka is observant. She does a great job of adjusting the techniques to suit the body size or fitness level of the learner. I’m not a confrontational person, so simulating confrontational scenarios was a huge obstacle for me. However, Sije Yuka and other veteran students always encouraged me to be comfortable with the uncomfortable. Super thankful for the lessons I learned!

My personal goal was to gain a better awareness of my body and learn self-defense. I never imaged that I would also gain some life-long friends. There is truly a kind and vibrant community here. To anyone wanting a safe space to challenge yourself and grow, please give Wing Chun Berkeley a try!“

“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.“