Martial Arts Schools near Berkeley

“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.“

“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!“

“My hubby goes to this place on regular basis and he really likes their approach. I also like the fact that he has not got any injury since he switched to this place. I recently attended their women self defense training. I was able to master a few techniques within one session and effectively beat my hubby at home! Very impressed! We plan to send our daughter there once they are able to expand the facility. I think it will be great for their confidence building.“

“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.“

“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.)“

“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 love this place! The kids enjoy their lessons with their teachers as they provide a good teaching relationship. It's fun to watch them work and get the techniques done successfully for the first time. Even the teachers get so excited!“

“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.“

“Teacher May has been a great teacher for my son, teaching him great discipline to be humble.That's what Frohm's Martial Arts is giving to our kids. ❤️ it!“

“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.“

“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.“

“I came to Filhos de Bimba out of curiosity in February of this year, I have always wanted to learn capoeira and was immediately welcomed into a generous tight knit multigenerational community of Capoeiristas entwined by the dance, music, emotion and politics of the marital art. Aqualtune, like her namesake is a powerful leader of our class, she is a generous, kind, patient, passionate professor who guides the class with skill, laughter and care. She is excellent in taking time and breaking down the moves, rhythms and songs for the group, while pushing us. Along with reconnecting with my body, I have found very healing is learning how to play the pandero and learning the songs for the roda. I didn't learn how to play music as a child and feel so grateful to experiment with instruments, voice in such a loving, gentle community. A great beauty of capoeira is the pedagogical style were the novice gets paired with someone who is more experienced this allows for everyone to learn form everyone, since my first class I have had meny teachers from the new students to the experts: Posas, Minha do Tigresa, Malandrino, and, of course, Mestre Malandro. Each one has helped me how feel more confidant with each movement and singing/playing the pandero in the rodas. I am very grateful for capoeira as an art and to learn with such an amazing school.“

“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.“

“This is a great dogo with dedicated senseis who don't give up on the students. I was apart of the dogo before moving away and when I came back they same senseis and some new ones started back up right where i left off. I would highly recommend this karate dogo to anyone interested in getting exercise, learning self defense and just have a great workout.“

“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.“

“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+“

“I've been training here for years. I love the art but more than that I love Jimmy our Sensei. I've made wonderful friends through the years and feel like Norm from Cheers when I come in and everyone knows my name. The place is welcoming, overly clean and it's a great art you can do for the rest of your life.“

“Every time I visit FICA I feel very welcomed by the students and instructors. The quality of instruction is exceptional, and they build you up gradually. After every class at FICA I feel I have learned so much, and gone beyond what I thought myself capable of - physically, musically, and spiritually. The relaxed Angola music puts me at ease, I feel relaxed and playful when learning. I never feel stressed or pressure to perform. Angola is an invitation to explore the internal rhythms inside, to bring what's inside out, to create. After a class at FICA, I feel more in touch with myself in everything I do the rest of the day. I primarily train Contemporânea at Capoeira Irmandade in Santa Clara (closer to where I live), and I find that Angola makes me more well-rounded as a capoeirista. Sometimes Contemporânea can be very fast paced and I can get caught up in movement and achievement and Angola puts the soul back into it. I deeply love the Angola style, it is very beautiful. The music also. If you ever have a chance to visit FICA, I highly recommend it. Helpful Hints: Angoleiros are very particular about dress codes. Wear shoes and pants with a t-shirt tucked in (no tank tops). Also sometimes it gets cold, so I'd suggest bringing a sweater.“

“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”“

“Love the dojo, and love the Sensei, she's a gifted teacher.And with the virus closing everything down, she's switched to Zoom, which is less than ideal but one hell of a lot better than nothing...“

“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.“

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“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! :)“

“Me and my brother studied here as kids and it was great! The teachers know how to teach discipline and keep kids focused while also maintaining a fun, encouraging, and positive environment. And it’s great exercise! Would recommend!!“

“At 4 years old, my daughter started at SAMA. She is now GOING ON 8 YEARS OLD and still thoroughly loves attending...Here's my honest opinion as an experienced CHILDCARE WORKER, educator, DANCE INSTRUCTOR FOR CHILDREN, but mostly as a MOTHER: SAMA is a safe and healthy environment for all, and is more than that... I have personally seen kids and adults of all ages, sizes, and abilities (and disabilities) thrive on the mat; both with Joshu Hamada, and with Sensei Roxas. Years ago, my daughter was extremely nervous during her first visit. She is typically very shy and wiggly around adults, not to mention in new bustling environments. But we had lots of good conversations to prepare her for what we might expect going in, as well as how she would need to behave on the mat. Joshu noted her curiosity, focus, and bravery, even when I didn't notice those attributes myself that day. Fast forward to now, and my daughter has grown in skill, confidence, patience, self-control, kindness, and respect for others. I very much attribute that to Joshu Hamadas fun, but firm approach at teaching. My daughter has made friends through the SAMA family, and several of her friends have joined. After all these years, she STILL has fun going. THAT SAYS A LOT IN ITSELF. Our friends and acquaintances have had very similar experiences with Joshu and Sensei, and it is because of THEIR excellence that there are so many long-lasting students/attendees. I sit through almost every single class my daughter attends. My father, who is a retired police officer and childcare worker himself, comes along as well on occasion. We are shocked at how Joshu and Sensei remember every single child, youth and adults names quickly. Joshu balances discipline and structure with goofiness and fun according to each classes needs. He is able to hold the attention of SO many young children, as well as foster each one's potential and growth INDIVIDUALLY. He monitors their skill level. He uses a wide range of exercise, technique building, punching/ blocking combos, and precisely pairs leaders with groups that will work well together. He is kind, silly, personable, professional, and fair. I can't thank him enough for the impact he has made in my daughter's life, and the lives of SO MANY CHILDREN. A year or two ago, (time flies by when you're having fun) I joined the adult class myself, and i feel honored to experience learning from Sensei and Joshu. As a dancer, my muscle memory struggled to adjust to shifting to martial arts, not to mention i had become so out of shape. But one of the beauties of SAMA (like others have mentioned) is that it is a JUDGMENT FREE ZONE. Sensei's expertise and skills are notable, and he shares them with us. We strive for excellence...but EVERYONES journey is valued.The RESPECT STANDARD of this martial arts academy is outstanding. It is why many individuals and families pursue martial arts in the first place, and it is why we intend to stay at SAMA until we both reach our black belts and beyond.“