Martial Arts Schools near Orinda

“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!“

“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.“

“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.“

“I really like jujitsu it’s very fun and I’ve made a bunch of friends here the the senpai are nice and fun to talk too and it really gives something fun to look forward too“

“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.“

“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!“

“Deep tradition in the highly respected Kodokan, with discipline, manners and traditional Japanese rules. It is a great authentic experience with talented coaches / senseis, especially for younger kids, but there is something to keep in mind.

For higher up belts and teenagers; with their traditional approach I have experienced an old methodology of trying to motivated and make Athletes better by trying to break them down and insult them. I have delivered this feedback and they have ensured to bring this up with the coaches / senseis.

Being a high level Athlete for +20 years and having coached different sports, I have found that the goal should be to build Athletes up and empower them. This treatment and self talk will follow with these incredible kids / teenagers / individuals for their life - negative or positive. I am all for truth, feedback and pushing Athletes, and focus should be in an empowering way.

I originally wrote a more descriptive honest review which was breaking this situation down further. With time, I trust that the message sunk in, changes were made. I see great potential in the teachers / senseis and people running this Dojo.“

“This is the most practical martial arts class you will ever take. From getting out of various choke holds to disarming an attacker with a gun, you'll learn more than you ever thought you would. Gabby is the main instructor and is as knowledgeable as he is supportive! Amazing place, I highly recommend it to everyone!“

“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“

“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.“

“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 place to start or continue study of a traditional martial art that is at the heart of Japanese culture. Andrej is a great teacher who respects needs of all students.“

“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.“

“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.“

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

“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.“

“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!“

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

“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 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!“

“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!“

“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.“

“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.“