Martial Arts Schools in San Diego

“Very family oriented with a lot more to offer than what you would expect. Highly recommend for those who are wanting a sense of community and support with you martial arts journey. Definitely authentic training and not for someone who wants to rush and just learn it all fast.“

“This is the best place to train in San Diego. Great energy and great discipline.
Professor Galvao is very diligent.

OSS“

“Very professional and friendly. They’re very welcoming to people of all skill & fitness levels. No egos here and I love the vibe & culture here.“

“I have been training at Kickforce for 12 years and it is an amazing establishment that has helped me grow in so many ways. I recommend enrolling now!“

“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.“

“The coaches and team leaders are amazing! Kind, attentive, and genuinely care about every student. I love that my child gets to work with kids of all ages; his confidence has grown so much in such a safe and supportive space. They help kids build social-emotional skills, confidence, discipline, resilience, and beyond both in and out of class. Couldn’t recommend this place more!“

“Great school for those trying to learn how to fight or defend themselves, prices are reasonable which is great based on how everything has gotten so expensive this days. The plus side also there seems to be enough women training as well for the girls who are thinking of trying it out I know how important that is for women to know they won't be the only girl“

“I have been playing mainly basketball for a long time. I decided one day to look into Muay Thai training with the intent on learning the art. Checked out a couple of gyms. Ended up at Rebellion. This has been one of the best learning experience mentally and physically. Each session, I pick up small details on technique. The classes push you to your limit physically. Highly recommend.“

“I had the privilege to be taken into the family here. The sensei is very humble and sincere and will guide you just like a father would. He and his students have many gold medals and have a passion for Judo. The scent, design, and sensei of the place, all come together to provide an authentic Japanese Judo education. I felt like I was in an upcoming champion story. I would keep coming, only that I am putting my full focus on becoming a monk right now, but I wish all the luck and prayers for this place. Thank you ?❤️“

“Practical Karate has been one of the best things we’ve done for our son. The Dojo is friendly and welcoming. The teachers are top notch, and so amazing with the kids. They work with kids from all ages and backgrounds and it’s an inclusive environment. Sensei Frank runs a well oiled machine teaching children how to be responsible, confident and respectful human beings. I’ve also received very helpful parenting advice and book recommendations from Sensei Frank that have helped me be prepared on raising two boys. It’s a great place to be and for all they offer the cost is very reasonable!“

“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“

“I can honestly say that DMA has been life-changing for my daughter. This isn't just a martial arts program it's the place where she found her confidence, her healing, and her motivation to keep growing. Watching her learn self-control, self-defense, and self-discipline has been incredible, but what touches me most is how this place has strengthened her mind and spirit.
Thanks to the amazing coaches, Mr. Lamar, Mr. Sam, Mr. Jose, and Ms. MJ -- my daughter has been shaped in ways I never imagined. They don't just teach; they show up. They guide, they listen, they encourage, and they become the kind of role models every child deserves. I love my daughter deeply and guide her at home, but they've supported me in that journey too with reminders, lessons, guidance, and the kind of steady support that lifts both kids and parents. They love our kids the way we do, and they do it with such genuine heart and style. Their support has helped my daughter believe in herself.
And besides it all the community... it's truly a family. You don't just walk into a class you walk into a room full of people who want to see your child succeed, grow, and feel supported. I really recommend!“

“Sifu Jeremiah teaches real, effective, quality martial arts. He is extremely knowledgeable, talented and a terrific instructor. Glad to have found this school. Highly recommend!“

“Fantastic environment to bring young kids to. Instructors are all great with the kids. Each week new lessons and skills taught around discipline, responsibility, listening, and being aware.
Sensei Will runs a great team of young professionals. Thank you sir.“

“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.“

“I Joined Family Karate In the Teen/Adult Classes From 7:00 - 8:00pm
The Teachers are Wonderful!
This Place is a 5 Star Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️“

“I have been very impressed by the energy, thought and organization that Mark Pattison has put into CMA. It's a very well run group that allows students to progress as quickly as they want to, giving great flexibility in the schedule and frequency of sessions they can take per week. The quality of the instruction is awesome and rigor, discipline and also respect and humor are emphasized. Really resonated with my son. In addition the waiting area serves as a great meeting place for parents in the community and allows us to see what the students are doing and to talk to the instructors and other parents. Really happy with our decision to join. Thank you Mark and team!“

“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 ???“

“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.)“

“I attended a couple different classes there and everyone was very kind, welcoming, and supportive. It is always hard being the new guy anywhere but they for sure welcomed me, started slow and made me feel like I belonged there.“

“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.“

“Over the course of 10 years I have trained under 4 dojos in various disciplines, and I can say with confidence that Master Kim is a better instructor than all the others combined.

I trained here for two years, so I am speaking from experience. Master Kim is an excellent teacher who teaches discipline while being friendly at the same time. Instructors Daniel, Thomas and Alex are also amazing! You will learn discipline and skill - not just rush to become a black belt as fast as possible. (But when you do become a black belt, you get your name embroidered on the belt in gold!) Indeed, in the time it took my cousin to advance to black belt at a different school (1 year) I wasn't even halfway there. And to be honest, if me and my cousin had had a sparring match at that time, I probably would've beaten him by a mile.

Although I moved away from San Diego, and cannot go to Master Kim's dojo anymore, I will always have the lessons I learned there: Respect, Discipline, and Inner Strength.“

“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.“