Martial Arts Schools near Pinole

“This place is amazing. My son started here when he was 4 1/2. He had so much energy and was very timid. He is now 9 and a Jr Black Belt as well as he is in there BJJ program. I have watched him grow and excel so much in the last 5 yrs. Sama has taught him so much. My son even talked me into joining there kickboxing class and I love it. Not only is it a great workout but now my son and I have something in common to do together. Sama has become an addition to our family.“

“Not only is this the best place to train in California, but now that I’m in Atlanta I’m realizing it’s nationally one of the best martial arts schools in the country. It is also one of the most amazing places to work that I’ve ever had the experience and pleasure to be apart of. The best lessons of my life came from these mats.“

“Ive been training here for a year and a half,This place Is amazing.Great Instructors, Clean environment and asolid Community!“

“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.“

“A recently learned of the concept of "A Third Place." Coined by Ray Oldenberg, it's a social environment that is not home (first place) and not work (second place). He identified key characteristics of all third places. "They are on neutral ground and promote social equity by leveling the status of guests. Conversation is the main activity and the mood is playful. Strangers are welcome, and there are regulars who feel a piece of themselves is rooted in the space. They enjoy the same feelings of warmth, possession, and belonging as they would in their own homes." I know this is seriously corny, but William Kim's Tae Kwon Do Center is the best Third Place for families. You truly feel a sense of community when you are there. All the instructors are so good with the kids. I have personally seen how beneficial Tae Kwon Do is through my own 9-year old (who started in 2023 at 7). He has blossomed due in large part to Tae Kwon Do. Because I attend almost all of my son's classes, I've also witnessed so many other students excel. These kids learn discipline, respect, perseverance and many more valuable social and emotional skills. And even though the students are training hard during class, the classes are actually really fun! Even for parents just sitting and watching. In addition to being a great place for your kids, as a parent, you might find yourself connecting with other local parents who may even become close friends and trusted associates. Families have been sending their kids to William Kim's TKD for decades and for good reason. The center has deep roots in the Vallejo community. Third places like William Kim's are successful because of the people who volunteer and work there--especially the Kim family--who are committed to improving each students well being through the discipline of the art of Tae Kwon Do. Families continue to flock here because they can see and feel this commitment. Also there are not many places you can go to like this, where you see different generations, from gen alpha to millennial, gen x and beyond, socializing well and getting along with one another. Sidenote: My husband had been wanting our son to start Tae Kwon Do for years, since he participated in several martial arts when he was younger. He did extensive research before deciding where to start. He picked William Kim's because of Grandmaster Kim's excellent reputation (Grandmaster is a 9th Don!) And, even though we live further away in Cordelia, we believe the quality of William Kim's is definitely worth the drive to Vallejo.“

“It's a really good gym I have been there for about 5 years it is a really good place I would recommend“

“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.“

“I started here with Mr. Yoshida almost 25 years ago and took a long break. I rejoined about a couple years ago along with my 2 young kids, learning under Mr. Kawaoka and Mr. Maldonado and really glad I did! The way Mr. Kawaoka teaches is not just about martial arts, but there is so much to apply to life outside of Cal-West. I am seeing so many parallels with my professional life and things I'm working on personally as well. It's been such a great experience, I highly recommend Cal-West for ALL ages!“

“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.“

“Amazing! My son loves going to class, he’s in the 6 pm class and has the option of attending 5 days a week. We try to attend as much as possible, with school and work we make it a minimum of two days a week and I have seen significant improvement in my son, such as his focus and ability to follow instructions.“

“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.“

“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.“

“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.“

“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+“

“Been attending WingChun Berkeley for a little over 4 years and I still enjoy, learn, and am energized at every class. I had no prior martial arts experience when I started and was looking for something practical to help with the street harassment/stalking incidents I was experiencing at the time. The students and the instructor, Sije Yuka, were incredibly welcoming, and the hands-on techniques in class, then and ever since, have been incredibly accessible and practical, no matter your body size/type or level of fitness. The self defense we learn is aggressive and no-nonsense, even though we practice in a way that's safe and easy for new people to join in. Everyone is very patient and kind - truly none of the ego or clique-y attitude that can sometimes happen in martial arts studios.As I practiced over time, I noticed a huge change in my confidence, the way I carried myself, and how I was able to respond to bad situations on the street. It has truly been a huge positive force for change in my life and I'm so grateful to Sije and the community of students. I hope they know they're stuck with me for good! :)“

“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.“

“He got his blue stripe! His favorite color! I love this place. Unlike me he actually listens to Sifu“