Martial Arts Schools near Pinole

“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.“

“Ive been training here for a year and a half,This place Is amazing.Great Instructors, Clean environment and asolid Community!“

“EBJI is an integral part of my life as well as my daughter’s life. The judo families and kids have formed a positive support system to help each of us grow and overcome challenges on and off the mat.“

“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!“

“The people here are wonderful! I love how they are teaching the students self discipline, the value of hard work, and are strict but gentle in their approach. I'm excited to see how my children will do!“

“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.“

“Super family place, very recommendable, the sobonim and the great Master William Kim are very good. Don't hesitate to come ?????????“

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

“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.“

“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.“

“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+“

“Loved this place but alas our schedule doesn't work for the two or more sessions but maybe soon“

“Our 6year son attends classes here and they are fantastic. We went to 3 different places in Vallejo before choosing. This school has all we were looking for. The instructors are wonderful and the lessons they instill are just as important. We love this place and would highly recommend 5stars!Johnson family“

“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.“

“Very awesome family!! They do so much for the community. Come out and give them a try. You won't be disappointed.“

“My grandson goes here and he loves it , and he learns a lot , it's so awesome l love going and watching him , he is so proud of what he kearnd“

“Hands down, Vallejo has one of the finest eskrima instructors in the world in GM Michael Giron, son of GME Leo Giron. The Original Giron system is an extremely practical, direct, and effective form of self defense. Battle tested in the Philippian jungles during WWII, the OGE system combines stick, blade and empty hand techniques with a special focus on edged weapons defense. I highly recommend this school for practitioners of any level, looking for REAL martial arts.“

“I have studied Kajukenbo intermittently through out my life, and Grand Master Emil Bautista has always been an amazing source of knowledge, and inspiration to me. As well as the closest thing to an Uncle I ever had from my Dad's side of the family. Thank you to KSDI for remembering my Father, a former student at the school, Frank Paul Bigoski, Iii on their walls.“

“He got his blue stripe! His favorite color! I love this place. Unlike me he actually listens to Sifu“

“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! :)“

“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.“