Martial Arts Schools near San Marcos

“My daughter just started here, and they show a lot of support for littles. She is only 3 and it has been a struggle to find a martial arts school that had classes after 4 o'clock especially since me and my husband work until for 30 Monday through Friday so her having classes available at 5 or 6 in the afternoon was an extreme
Rarity for my daughters age group. Thus far she is having a lot of fun and is getting a lot of exercise after she's been there for a little bit longerI hope to get her into the sparring class.“

“When you walk into NRK you are met with a welcoming energy based in family and tradition where respect and discipline are very apparent.

My six and three year olds quickly resonated with the cultivated atmosphere of structure and the demand of their attention.

As an astute observer over my children, I also gained an increased view into the ancient tradition being carried on by these highly qualified and approachable family members at NRK.

Seeing the growth of my babies in such an exceptional environment is priceless as well as the lessons they actively learn about protecting themselves and others.

I enjoy going there, and gain just as much as my littles do!

Thank you for your consistency NRK!“

“North County Martial Arts has been amazing for our daughter. The instructors are patient, encouraging, and great with kids. Since starting classes, we’ve seen her confidence grow and her listening skills improve. She has so much fun learning new skills, and we love that she’s building confidence and discipline at the same time. Highly recommend!“

“Encinitas Karate is a great Karate Tang Soo Do!! We really enjoy how their team teach my daughter the necessary skills to defend herself when needed. I highly recommend this dojo.“

“Swiftkick’s awesome! I’ve been here for around 2 years and it’s super fun. We do need more teenagers, if you got some, sign them up, they’ll love it if they like boxing and kickboxing and grappling (my personal favorite).“

“My son has been a part of Champion Eyes for about a year and a half now. He started at the age of 4 and is almost 6. He has learned so much with all the senseis and they are all so patient with him but strict (which I love and wanted). He loves going to class and always has a smile on his face.“

“Our family has had a wonderful experience with California Karate Academy. The instructors are patient, encouraging, and truly care about helping each student grow, both in karate and in character.

My son has gained confidence, discipline, respect, and perseverance since joining. The staff does an excellent job of creating a positive environment where kids feel supported while still being challenged to do their best. Every achievement is celebrated, and the instructors take the time to make each student feel seen and valued.

The academy is well organized, family-friendly, and focused on teaching important life skills alongside martial arts. We are so grateful to be part of the California Karate Academy family and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a program that builds confidence, character, and leadership in children.“

“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!“

“I could not recommend them enough. They make jiu jitsu so fun and everyone at this gym is so kind, easy going, and non judgmental of people new to the sport. They break down the movements step by step and come by individually to help correct form. There’s people of all ages here and everyone’s so welcoming. My new favorite place <3“

“A wonderfully positive atmosphere for my two sons just getting introduced to the MMA experience. Everyone there is very encouraging and promoting a positive energy!“

“I honestly cannot recommend Excel Jiu-Jitsu enough. Before finding this academy, I had attempted to learn Jiu-Jitsu at a school overseas, and it was a difficult experience. Their approach was overly complicated and lacked thorough instruction; it often felt less like a learning environment and more like a place where others were just looking to take out their frustrations on you.
After a friend encouraged me to try Excel, I was cautiously optimistic, but to my wonderful surprise, the experience has been night-and-day different. From the moment I stepped onto the mats, I felt like I was learning alongside a team that truly feels like family.
Professor Michio is truly a great person, and the overall atmosphere here is incredible. Everyone is consistently understanding, patient, and genuinely willing to teach. This is exactly the kind of environment you want when you are starting your journey. It is a place that encourages you to be brave, to be sweet, and to strive to be better every single day.
If you are looking for a place to train where you feel supported and valued, I highly recommend giving Excel a try. I have loved my time here so far, and I know you will too!“

“We’ve had a wonderful experience at this karate studio. The instructors are motivating and show great leadership with all the students. My daughter genuinely looks forward to every karate class and has grown so much in confidence and discipline since joining.
Sensei Hans and Gavin are both friendly, encouraging, and truly care about each student’s progress. The facility is always clean and welcoming, which reflects how much pride they take in the dojo and the environment they create. It’s clear they are focused not only on teaching karate skills, but also on building confidence, respect, and discipline in every child.
One thing that really stood out to me is meeting several parents who drive from multiple surrounding cities just so their children can train here. That says a lot about the quality of the instructors and how engaged and positive the students are during class. You can truly see the difference in the atmosphere and level of care they provide. Highly recommend!“

“I have been attending this dojo for about 8 months. I am in the adult teen class(being the only adult at times) what I really enjoy about this that Ms. Eldred is an awesome instructor. She takes into consideration your limitations if any. She motivates you pushes you not to give up! At the end of class we do a quick lesson in mindfullness. Which is great reminder for all of no matter your age. There is always something new to be learned. I highly recommend for any adults interested to come check it out!“

“I was in town for a week and stopped by to train with the Figueroa Team one day. Super cool people, welcoming and great jiu jitsu level. Won't forget the octopus guard/pass Coach Martin taught me. Osss“

“I’ve been training at Kaigan Karate-Do for the past year and a half alongside my son, and it’s been an incredible experience for both of us. We’re not just learning karate—we’re learning discipline, respect, and resilience together.
I’ve seen my son’s confidence grow tenfold. Sensei Jorge strikes a rare balance between teaching practical self-defense and instilling strong character and focus. He knows how to challenge students while still making them feel supported.
What makes this dojo special is the sense of community. It’s a place where kids and adults alike are encouraged to push themselves, celebrate progress, and stay humble.
I highly recommend Kaigan Karate-Do to anyone looking not just for martial arts training, but for a place to grow—both on and off the mat.“

“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.“

“We love AK Martial Arts!. My son started more than 5 years ago and has been engaged with the program since day one. He has developed many skills through his training, not only physical but he also has learned respect, discipline and love for what he does.The instructors are knowledgable and caring; they are great role models for the younger kids. They are amazing.The owners are committed to offer an excellent program and have created a community that respects and appreciates them.There is not any other studio like AK Martial Arts. They offer a variety of classes that can help with many families needs.There is a community of parents that have been friends for many years and we value being part of it.“

“Great instruction with tremendous attention to detail. The level of character building and genuine care for the students is the most attractive aspect as a parent. My daughter feels comfortable and confident in this school. The instructors are true professionals, who balance discipline, fun and compassion with excellence.“

“My kids have been going for a few months now and they love it. It's family oriented and you can attend the days they offer it without a set schedule.“

“I earned my First Degree Black Belt in Taekwondo in my early 20s in Northern California. Years later after marriage and kids I enrolled my son, and later my daughter in Master An’s Dojang in Vista. He is phenomenal with children, teaching them discipline and respect while making class fun for them. Both my children earned their black belts with Master An. I can see how the self-confidence they developed helps them in their lives. He encouraged me to start training again, and at age 49, I thought I was too old, but I came back, and for the last 15 years I have been training, learning, and growing in Taekwondo and Hapkido with Master An. Training and testing with my kids have been some of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Master An understands each student’s ability and helps them reach their potential. If you or your children want to get in shape and have fun while learning martial arts, I highly recommend Master An.“

“I've attended for about 4 months now and have felt both welcome within the group, and confident in Sensei Kevin and the other attendees who provide support. I'm in my fifties and have participated within a range of age groups there. I've never done martial arts of any form, so have started at this later age, but feel very comfortable doing so, mainly because of Sensei Kevin and the supportive nature of the entire group.“

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