Martial Arts Schools in San Diego

“I started my kids here 3 months ago ths ago after their coach of 7 years moved out of state. Everyone at Alliance has been super friendly, inviting and professional. The gym is clean and convenient. All of the coaches are awesome and have been invested in all the kids development. We've been very happy here, and I would recommend it to anyone.“

“I went to a practice this morning led by the leader and attended by members of the San Diego Peninsula Dojo. Participants came from across 11 SKA dojos in Southern California. This practice focused on jiyu kumite (free sparring), and Erik brought his many years of expertise and experience to lead a strong, spirited practice for all levels, helping all of us to hone our skills and mentality. Can't wait for the next opportunity!“

“Been sending my 3 kids ages 4, 6, 8 here for 3 years almost. Very pleased with their progression and with the staff and teachers here. Very professional and knowledgeable.“

“I’ve been coming to this dojo for 2 months and wow what an impact it has made on my standing self defense, ground game and overall conditioning. I’ve been studying BJJ for about a year and Judo has complimented my BJJ game immensely! Sensei Koji is one of the best teachers I have learned from, he is patient and his teaching methods are excellent. He teaches the most authentic Japanese Judo in the area. It’s a fun experience and I couldn’t recommend it enough, great for beginners and experts alike. I’m looking forward to continuing my journey for years to come. Thank you Sensei Koji!“

“Great atmosphere! My kids and I have been training here for the past few months and we feel at home. Professor Julio is the owner and he is amazing! His teaching is thorough. He makes sure every single person is treated with respect and greeted as they walk in. The students that train there are very respectful and welcoming to new students as well. Coach Ro is one of a kind! She runs the women's class on Saturday mornings at 8:45 am and she makes the class so much fun with great instructions! My family and I have been welcomed by open arms by everyone there and we feel blessed to be a part of this great family owned gym.“

“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.“

“I really like this gym, now my children, 6 and 8 years old, like to go there. very convenient schedule for all available classes. train as much as you want, you don’t even have to come to classes but train yourself. cool coaching staff, very pleasant friendly atmosphere. Stop sitting at home, go and train. I recommend it to all my friends“

“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“

“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 can't say enough wonderful things about CMA! Our son and daughter love coming here and have learned so much already! They are not only learning the martial arts skills but also valuable life lessons about respect, focus, and discipline. They have both gained a lot of self confidence as well. We are so grateful to their Masters and the positive atmosphere that CMA embodies!“

“I love training under Sifu Jeramiah and learning his system. He’s learned from some of the best martial art legends, and it shows. He’s extremely knowledgeable in realistic street self defense and weapons tactics, and explains the science and history behind his teachings. These classes are awesome, I absolutely recommended checking it out“

“Master Kim and the instructors at World Taekwondo Academy are knowledgeable, skilled, and respectful. There is a community that is fostered between the students. Whether you aim for your kids to learn martial arts to build self confidence and life skills -- or if you are an adult who practices -- I can confidently recommend Master Kim and the World Taekwondo Academy. It's been a great experience for me!“

“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.“

“Master Brown runs a tight ship, but extends kindness and levity for all. His teachings build confidence, coordination and skillful abilities to his charges of all sizes and levels. You won't be disappointed.“

“We have seen our son grow from being shy and unfocussed to confident and disciplined through kickforce and he’s only 5. In addition to martial arts and self defense, the life skills and affirmations taught are invaluable. Highly recommend to at least give it a try!“

“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.“

“This taekwondo school offers great self defense training. The classes not only enhance our family bonds but also provide a shared activity for us. I highly recommend this place.“

“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.“

“I cannot say enough about Master Moon and Mr. Danny. They are amazing instructors and seem to know just how far to push their students. I love the combination of seriousness and silliness. I'm excited to see my kids progress in their skills without the all too common burnout.“

“Great coaching staff! Friendly and clean gym! Coaches are very approachable and make the learning environment fun for beginners.“

“San Diego Aikikai has been the institution to represent traditional Japanese style teaching of Aikido in San Diego. Aikido is a martial art and as such has a martial approach in it's philosophy, but one of the tenets is to seek ways to avoid conflict. This dojo and the instructors associated with it represent that philosophy as passed down from our principal instructors.“

“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!“

“Atos is synonymous with World Class Jiu Jitsu! This week, I met people from Poland, Israel, Australia, and Sweden! People literally travel from all over the world to train at this gym- and it's no surprise. Andre Galvao is an incredible leader. Not all athletes can become good coaches, but Galvao stands above the rest. I have been so impressed with the way he trains his students. He is intentional to consider the whole athlete and as competitions approach, he changes his strategy to train them and help them lose weight (by keeping the room warmer than usual) and then I'll watch him throw in a game or some sort of activity that fosters camaraderie to help athletes connect and get some mental release. He takes notes and is always encouraging the athletes with the way he runs his class and his daily pep talks. It is obvious he is mindful of what everyone has the potential to become and he pushes people to achieve their best. He manages the classes well and the other professors who serve alongside him are following in his footsteps. He is a great man on and off the mat.“

“My son trained here for a while then stopped. When he decided to start back, he wanted to come back here. Coaches are knowledgeable and still cool!“

“Very friendly people there. There warm up excersizes will get you in shape. So far I have enjoyed all there group classes. Instructors are very good and thorough.“