Martial Arts Schools near National City

“This is a great school to learn Modern Arnis, a Filipino Martial Art. Grandmaster and the instructors are fun and knowleable. The environment is family friendly and they welcome you with open arms. I highly recommend. Its also a great way to get in shape and learn self-defense on multiple fronts. Give them a try.“

“I went to this try out this class for women’s self defense for the first time and I feel that I left with a lot of new knowledge. And this gave me the opportunity to open my eyes into the reality and the dangers that women face in the world and the importance of self defense. I absolutely loved this and I would definitely take some classes here! 10/10 !!!!!!“

“The House of Discipline has been a blessing to me and my family. I started off enrolling my daughter in the evening class with Mr. De La Rosa. She hated it. She cried every night for about 2 weeks. So I then joined his early morning 8am women's workout class, to show my daughter it wasn't that bad. ??? The joke was on me beause Sensei as I call him KICKED MY BUTT!!! That class was SOOO hard, I found myself crying. I didn't show fear or tears during the class but in the car I would ask myself what I was doing. I would pray before class everyday and question why I came. But the more I went and the harder he pushed the more and more I became stronger in myself knowing that my body did not control me I controlled me. I reciprocated that to my daughter as well. After 2 weeks she was EXCITED to go to class. We started taking classes in July 2024. She has been consistent since July. We are in February 2025. I slacked in November and December, but I came back January 2025. It's been real but I would not have chosen a better place to work out. Mentally, physically, and supportively House of Discipline is the place. The staff is top tier. It's definitely A FAMILY. Sensei (Mr. Dela Rosa) is tight as my mom would say, but he's RIGHT. You don't want someone who you can walk over who is helping you work out, you want someone who will help you excel to the goal you have set . House of Discipline will help you reach your potential and beyond. I saw results in a month. Consistency is key. The program that is in place for the kids is definitely one that I have never seen before. My daughter is pushed to gain not only physical knowledge but common sense and thinking skills. I teach those things but to have someone else help push those skills is SOOOO important because the schools don't do that anymore. If you need a village House of Discipline is the VILLAGE. Thank you House of Discipline for the extension of FAMILY. ?“

“The instructor is amazing. He’s warm and welcoming, inviting, but he teaches this kids how to defend themselves. We feel so lucky to have found this place! My son loves it!“

“Absolutely the best!! Incredibly passionate about their work with both children and adults, the team here is phenomenal. The give a discount for being a "founding member" so hopefully you didn't miss the chance. If you have a kid (or you yourself) want more self-defense, respect, compassion and discipline in your life - check out White Dragons. The founder, Basil "The White Dragon" Master has not only extensively studied over 10 martial arts styles, he has also tried and tested his experience in competition, fighting in the ring, cage, and the octagon, and in combat through his work in executive protection. The vibe is so positive and powerful. It can change your life.“

“My son(8yrs old) has been practicing jiu jitsu just under a year and I've seen his attitude, self confidence , and over all his behavior vastly improve. The coaches are great the staff is awesome, and it is one of the better decisions to enroll my son in here I've done in my life.“

“Highly recommend this gym! My autistic son has thrived here and the coaches are so friendly and assertive at the same time creating a great learning environment for all kids with and without special learning differences. We have made great long lasting friendships with other parents as well. Overall just an amazing community of fighters who truly care❤️“

“Julio is an excellent instructor and offers a safe clean and friendly training environment.“

“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“

“Excellent training academy for martial arts. Grand Master Kim focuses on respect, hard work, and excellence, yet is a very approachable and kind instructor. The perfect balance between being strict yet very caring. The students learn so much in class, and get an amazing workout. Plus I believe the lessons help them excel at school and in life. Highly recommend.“

“After combing through many studios attempting to locate the right fit for my kids schedule and instruction, we found that Blue Dragons or now known as The American Combat Academy was it. No other studio we visited with was offering what this one can; Classes six days a week, multiple disciplines, adult and youth classes, and a smaller more intimate class training environment. Professor Tony and his master instructors are true professionals to thier craft. I have entrusted them for over two years now and I will never regret the decision I made to enroll both my daughter and son. They both have flourished under the leadership of this studio. They have made life long friendships and have made tremendous strides in learning both the arts of Taekwondo and Jui Jitsu. Both of my children regularly compete in Jui Jitsu competitions nationally. They have been recognized as State and World Jui Jitsu champions, all thanks to Professor Tony and his amazing staff of instructors. This is the place! Don't waist anymore time or money anywhere else, come in and check it out. Your kids will thank you later!“

“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.“

“Had an amazing experience at this martial arts school! The instructors are knowledgeable and patient, and the facilities are top-notch. Highly recommend to anyone looking to improve their martial arts skills.“

“I have been bringing my kids here for 2 years now. I love that it is traditional karate and not just self defense or MMA. The monthly cost is more than reasonable and is on a pay-as-you-go basis. No long contracts, overcharging or automatic deductions here, just honest, up front pricing for a quality education. This is a female run dojo, so girls and boys can feel comfortable learning karate here.I see the results my kids are receiving like discipline, confidence and self defense. They are even learning Japanese language in their class! I highly recommend this place! Do your research like I did and you will find that this is the best place for you or your children to learn karate.“

“Sam is a great teacher! My son has really enjoyed his tkd classes here. He has felt well supported, learned to defend himself and has developed more self-confidence.“

“My daughter has been coming to this studio for almost a year. She loves it! Her mental and physical discipline has improved so much. Instead of not knowing how to harness her own strength, she's become more observant of her surroundings and precise with her movements. She also comes home tired from her Kung Fu class, which is wonderful because she has so much energy.
I also enjoy and respect the way Sifu speaks to the kids. His language, choice of words, and his guidance is something that kids need more of these days. I'm grateful for his knowledge and the way he shares that with the youth.
I highly recommend this studio for kids (or even young adults) who need focus, strength, discipline, wisdom, and just a fun way to exert the body.“

“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.“

“Great School. Great learning experience for my daughter. She's learned so much not only skills wise but behavior and mental abilities as well. She's learned to be more self disciplined and I'm very thankful she has had and continues to have good experiences from Judo here at this Dojo.“

“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.)“

“My 10 year old son enjoys the activity and training. His friends also attend training. Master Tony is great with kids.“

“?
The best Tang Soo Do Karate institute in SD.???
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✅ Mrs. Leislie and Mrs. Larry are excellent teachers, they have a lot of discipline, their classes are quality, they are professional and patient with children, they have many years of experience.
✅ The studio is large, comfortable and clean.
✅ It has many students in its different categories. Something that is very good for children.
✅ There is plenty of parking.
✅ Class prices are affordable.
✅ Participation in tournaments.??
✅ It is a very pleasant environment.
✅ Free trial class.

⭐️We are very happy to have found this institute, our children have learned a lot and developed new skills and are more confident. It has helped them focus more on school and their activities.

Thanks for everything! ??Tang Soo!“

“Frank (the sensei) has been an amazing instructor for my son. he is teaches discipline, perseverance, and respect. it has been an amazing learning journey for my son and me as part of this journey of karate. highly recommended“

“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.“

“LOVE this establishment, highly recommend!PROs: Hands down the best choice for martial arts for kids in the area. Master Kenny and his colleagues are true professionals. They have the knowledge and attitude to keep kids attention non-stop while instilling the tenants of Tang Soo Do. My kid loves going to class and it's quite a show to watch. No matter the skill level, they give every child the same amount of attention, discipline, and respect. The very flexible class schedule is also supportive of family schedules. Looking forward to staying here for years to come!CONs: Parking is tough but otherwise this place rocks!“

“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.“