Martial Arts Schools near Martinez

“I would recommend to others. Flexible scheduling. Excellent and clean facility. Well trained professional team but, most importantly they are very patient and empathetic for beginners. Starting our journey in the smaller Room 2, Tiny Tigers class was critical in helping minimize anxiety. Additionally, they participate in local community events and provide enrichment opportunities additionally to their main program. I encourage you to call or stop by to learn more.“

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

“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.“

“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!“

“My 6-year-old son loves Gracie Jiu-Jitsu in Vallejo! The instructors not only teach solid jiu-jitsu skills, but also focus on building character, confidence, and respect. They do an excellent job teaching kids how to stand up for themselves in a positive way and how not to be bullied. The atmosphere is welcoming, supportive, and fun. I definitely recommend this place for any parent looking for more than just martial arts training—it’s a great investment in your child’s growth.“

“My daughter is 6 and has been a student at Vallejo's taekwondo for two years now. It's so amazing to see her progress and grow in the art of taekwondo. They are firm but fair and also allow for a little fun and silliness. I really appreciate the way they teach and work with kids of all ages. This school teaches discipline and respect and accountability which is such a rare thing to find these days. And they are so reasonably priced for what they provide. Kwon Ja Nim is great with the kids without being too firm or too lenient and Maam Debbie takes a personal interest in the kids as well. This class has taught my daughter so much and I highly recommend them especially if you, like me, have a high energy child that needs the outlet. Taekwondo is a real life skill for my daughter and I'm excited to see how much she grows and learns from them.“

“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.“

“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.“

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

“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!“

“Grandson has learned so much!. Andrew just completed his testing and is now a blue belt! Amazing . Any parent even thinking about putting their child in a Karate class look no further. This is the place!“

“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.“

“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 5 year old daughter has been at Essence for a few months and she loves practicing BJJ a few times a week. The coaches at BJJ are fantastic with children and I would highly recommend them!“

“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 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.“

“I'm retired. I live in a fairly safe neighborhood. One evening, I'm walking my dog. I'd say we're only a mile or so from my home. About a hundred yards from us a stranger yells, "Nice dog." I reply, "Thank you." Smiling, he asks, "How much will you sell him for?" Surprised and somewhat flattered, I reply, "He's not for sale." Then with a blank facial expression, I believe he says something like, "Too bad, I might have to take him from you!" Not believing what was said, I said, "Excuse me?" Speaking with more conviction, he responds, "I might have to take him from you." Being street smart, I really don't know if I was more annoyed, stunned or amused. I always try to avoid confrontation because the worst-case scenario can always lead to violence. Now having been around the block a few times, I know that the last thing you do is to ignore a street challenge of confrontation. While walking toward him, I'm sizing him up. He's at least 35 years younger, 3 or 4 inches taller and at least 20 lbs. heavier. I doubt if he's in better shape but if he is, so what. Finally, I'm within arm's length. Even if he has a knife or gun, there's no doubt in my mind. I can take him. Training, preparation with confidence and real-life combat skills for the sometimes not so nice world we live in; that's what you'll get from Gustavo Desperetti, chief instructor and owner of Dogo Krav Maga. Family oriented, you'll find that he genuinely cares about your development and ability to protect yourself and loved ones. If you want straight forward self-defense instruction in a caring, supportive considerate environment, you need to check out Dogo Krav Maga. Gustavo is a Pro's Pro. I rate Dogo Krav Maga "5" because I can't rate it 10. Oh, and by the way, I still have my dog and about a week later, the guy in question walked across my path. I suppose for good reason, he acted as if he didn't see me.“

“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“

“Master Jones it's a great human being. He is an inspiration and I have known him for about 10 years. I have 3 kids in his Taekwondo classes and all my kids admire him and loves going to the classes. Who ever has a chance to meet him or talk to him is a lucky person. I highly recommend signing up for his classes 100%“