Berkeley Muay Thai &amp; Fitness

(72 reviews)

1.0 mi

Ralph Gracie Berkeley changed my life. Eduardo Fraga has an incredible depth of knowledge and has…read morealways pushed me to continue training even through some dark times in my life. This place has become family and I'm so grateful that I walked through those doors.

I had an absolute pleasure studying judo here with Sensei Barry and Sensei Newton. They are very…read morenice and knowledgeable.

Another Great Judo class with Sensei Barry and Sensei Newton

Alan flexing during open mat

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Aikido of Berkeley

(23 reviews)

0.7 mi

Sensei is amazing! She is really kind to the kids and my son can't wait to go to her weekly…read moreclasses!!! She is patient and always teaches the kids about being thankful. Amazing experience here.

After witnessing how incredibly supportive aikido was for my mental health, I visited dojos all…read moreover the East Bay to find one that felt like home. I've been at Aikido of Berkeley for three years now, finding just what I needed. Kayla Feder Sensei is a master teacher - inviting me to practice with precision while being warm and humble. A rare combination in martial arts! Also unique about this dojo is how much the students show up for one another outside of aikido - celebrating, collaborating creatively, helping each other move, even watching my cat! I feel very, very grateful to have this spiritual community.

On the mat at Aikido of Berkeley

Shomen

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Jin Sei Ryu Karate-Do

4.8

(24 reviews)

1.2 mi

I've been training here for about 16 years. Great place to learn traditional karate in a safe and…read moreaccepting environment.

From moment we found Todd and Jill practicing at Ohlone, we were greeted with encouragement. My…read moreson has developed discipline, respect, confidence, and body awareness at the dojo. The focus on physical fitness and mental well-being is evident in every class. The sense of community among students makes it feel like a second family.

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Wu Wei Tao Kung Fu

(2 reviews)

0.2 mi

I have been going there for a couple months. It's not just about beating somebody or getting beat…read moreup, you really learn something and also work out your body. Get into to it, Steady for a while then you are not going to let it go.

My 10-year-old son recently had an interest sparked in kung fu by watching a TV show. I really did…read morenot think he would gravitate toward it, but I ran across Ryan and Wu Wei Tao Kung Fu and we have not looked back. Ryan is a phenomenal teacher. He is gentle in temperament yet clear and firm in his instructions, and he's very good at pushing my son, but not pushing him so hard that he becomes frustrated. My son has found his classes with Ryan to be a joy, and he always says what a great teacher he thinks Ryan is. I can tell that Ryan enjoys the teaching experience as well. He has always given my son 110% and I can't recommend him more highly as a teacher. I also think his reasonably priced one-on-one classes are perfect for students like my son who might be more intimidated in a traditional martial arts setting with a lot of other students.

Sihing Ryan ( Instructor )

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Anti -Grappling Technique

Krav Maga Xtreme

(54 reviews)

2.9 mi

After a few upsetting situations at our Middle School with chronic bullying, I figured the only way…read moreour son could break the cycle would be to learn self-defense. I had heard of Krav Maga and knew this would alleviate my fears for him. I discovered this amazing family-run business and I'm satisfied thus far. Gaby and his son...the owners, are very welcoming and immediately offered my son and daughter a private lesson. The class so far has given them a boost of confidence as well as skills to protect themselves if need be. Unlike Tae Kwon Do, they can utilize these skills in real-life situations to mitigate an attack either on themselves or their friends. I'm considering doing it myself. It's a great workout!

Great place to begin your journey into Krav Maga! Gaby is an amazing instructor and works well with…read moreall skill levels along with his instructors. It is very welcoming and filled excellent members! You will love the good vibe and life skills training!!

Krav Maga. Empowering women of all ages.

After a Level 2 test! They all passed, so worth the hard work.

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Reserve your spot today! For more info: Call (510)495-0971 Kmxinfo@gmail.com

West Wind Schools

4.6

(24 reviews)

2.0 mi

I have been with this school for years and so has my daughter…read more They helped build my daughters self-confidence and I've never been in better physical shape. It's not easy, but most things worth having aren't. You get what you put into it. I know several people that have used what West Wind teaches to defend themselves including myself. The teachers are professional, positive and work with everything from small children to people with disabilities and though you're pushed hard. You're never pushed further than you can go. I would strongly recommend it to anyone, particularly if you have kids and feel like they need a positive influence that's caring but strong. They care about the students. They are a big part of who my little girl is today. Getting A's, on the Honor Roll and started looking at colleges at the age of 11. Before West Wind she was shy and behind in school and not as confident. People seem to complain about the price on here, what they have given me and my little girl I can't put a price on.

I cant say enough about the quality and dedication of the teachers at Berkeley West Wind…read more Adults, children and families learn together in the same beautiful room, each with their individual instructor. The positive atmosphere is palpable.!

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Chaiyo Muaythai

(46 reviews)

5.2 mi

been going for about a week and a half. pretty serious about getting better and hopefully stepping…read moreinto the ring one day. these guys will take you there. all the teachers are passionate and have your best intrest. from the casual getting in shape to world champions. so thankful I found this place and I hope to keep coming here every chance I get.

Fantastic gym that works for both serious and casual people. Important for me, I found the gym to…read morebe a very friendly and welcoming environment - the owner, the coaches, and the other gym members. I came to the gym casually but have had so much fun in the classes that I can't help but get more into it. The gym is traditional and full of expertise so there is a lot of room for growth. Whether you are an absolute beginner just looking to get in shape, or a serious fighter looking to learn the best Muay Thai you can...this is the gym you should try.

Master Chadeth"Cheetah" Chanthanao

Step right in.

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Team cheetah

International Academy of WingChun

4.8

(4 reviews)

0.5 mi

I will start off by saying this is the most practical application of self-defense I have seen…read more Anyone can learn this discipline. It's pure self-defense and the training is based on balance and using your natural physiological and psychological response to fear and stress. Through training, students learn to use these responses in a powerful and explosive way. While it can appear rough, and frankly, it is in many ways, the staff and students alike are mindful and caring in the way they implement the tools they're teaching/learning. I sought out a practical school for my son to learn to defend himself and this is a perfect fit for him. Knowing that my son is entering his teenage years with the correct mindset about the reality of violence is priceless. The school is kid-friendly, but it's best if your child is able to focus for over an hour for it to really be a benefit for all. I'm a big fan of International Academy of Wing Chun!

My friend persuaded me to try it out, so I emailed them and they were really nice about letting us…read moredrop by and take a free class. It's very meditative, and they really care about being in the proper form and stance. Everyone there is really dedicated to the martial art, and believe in its benefits. Personally it wasn't my thing so I didn't go back (I was expecting more cardio/activity, and there IS a lot of standing around learning the form and all that). That being said, if you DO like it I think it's a small, intimate atmosphere that will provide lots of one-on-one help. If you're considering it, I would drop by and give it a try.

Sifu Paul Wang, IAW-US Chief Instructor

WingChun Seminar Action.

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Students watch and learn from Sifu Paul Wang.

Aiki Arts Center

4.8

(29 reviews)

0.3 mi

Aikido Shusekai is by far and away one of the best places that I have ever found myself in my life…read more The environment of the dojo and the structure of the training are mindfully engineered to foster learning and growth. Not having decades of experience or claiming any vast well of wisdom to draw upon myself, I cannot qualify, thusly, claims that I have heard stated by others who DO possess more experience. Sitting on the bench outside before class one day, I remember a senior student - a black belt herself, who has been studying Aikido for many years - telling me how lucky SHE felt to be able to train there. She said that we were all receiving "gems of Aikido" through our training. At the time, I thought I knew what she meant: the training was great, and I had learned a lot already myself! But as each week passes, and more lessons are taught and learned, I realize again and again how valuable the lessons I am learning here truly are. I recommend this practice, and particularly THIS DOJO for any and all people! The program is structured such that all new students get lots of face-time with the more advanced students during practice. This really helps accelerate learning, and helps to ensure good practice. I myself have experienced the teens and adults program, and can personally attest to the benefits of training here. The people are amazing, one and all, and I truly feel privileged, honored, and humbled each time I step on the mat to train with them. Head Sensei Nick Walker is an amazing teacher, and guides us all with great patience, wisdom, and intelligence. The training is always challenging, and always worth it. I also highly recommend this dojo for kids! Dojo Manager and skilled practitioner herself, Sensei Azzia Walker, runs the children's program at our dojo. Having had the privilege of learning from her during the teen/adults classes, I can attest to the fact that she is also an incredibly gifted teacher. Having had the privilege of training with a couple of her advanced but younger age students during the teen/adult classes, I can attest to the fact that they know there stuff! I coach girls volleyball and girls basketball (middle school level). If you are a parent reading this because your child is interested in martial arts, I implore you to come check us out. We are having several promotions for young students looking to start training with us, and our exciting new All Girls Program is kicking off! Our hopes that we may be able to provide opportunities for all who may be interested. I love Aikido Shusekai, and I hope that many more will be able to come and share in the bounty of the experiences to be had along the journey that is training.

After researching and visiting some aikido schools in the area and I decided to attend this school…read more The place has a great learning environment. It's subtle but I feel an inner zeal to learn from instructors who have dedicated their lives to the beautiful art of aikido. Most impressive thing is that Nick sensei sub-communicate a balance between softness(suppleness and yielding) and alertness while teaching aikido techniques, which is pretty rare to find. Instructors share all their wisdom and years of experience with aikido for you without holding anything back and you can use it anyway you want in different aspects of life. Students train with other students from different age groups and gender which is deeply interconnected with the balance between suppleness and alertness. It's cause while training with different people during the classes, one naturally finds a balance between the two. Since aikido is considered as the most spiritual martial art and this is reflected while training here like learning without words, conscious breaths, introducing gap between thinking while bowing etc. Although they seem to be way too traditional sometimes with some of the things they sub-communicate to the students, still it's a good school. Along with that it's Pretty spacious. Also you can find many hot girls in nearby dance studios.

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SBG NorCal

(64 reviews)

0.9 mi

I only went for a couple classes while I was in class, but my experience was positive all around! I…read morewould definitely go back!

Great workouts and knowledgeable coaches. I've been going to…read morethe boxing boot camp and it's a great balance of workout and techniques. Highly recommend!

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Strawberry Canyon Recreation Area

4.1

(29 reviews)

2.5 mi

The pool is great! And it's open way more hours this summer than the past. Pretty much 12-6pm…read moreeveryday for rec swim. FYI the pool is only open during the summer.

The Strawberry Canyon Recreation Area (SCRA) is a hidden gem located above the Cal Campus and on…read morethe road up the hill on the way up to the Lawrence Hall of Science. It features an outdoor swimming pool, a ropes course, locker rooms, fitness center, barbecue/picnic area, and the Haas Clubhouse. I've been here for a few private parties at the Clubhouse. But what I really enjoy is bringing the family here for a swim and a chance to hang out poolside or on the grass. It's quiet, peaceful and in lush surroundings. And it's only a short drive from the urban grittiness of my Albany home.

If you just want the lazy swim in the sun, this is it!

High-up obstacle course!

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Berkeley Aquatic Park

3.6

(81 reviews)

0.6 mi

Google maps will take you to the south lot, which offers free and easy parking. Overflowing trash…read morecans and a porta potty were located near the parking lot when I visited this past Saturday. Plenty of unmaintained grass throughout the park, not ideal for picnicking. But there were a few picnic tables and park benches along the trail bordering the pond. Along the paved path, I enjoyed the surrounding scenery and views of the water, as well as ducks, pelicans, and seagulls floating in the lagoon. I also found some disc golf baskets and exercise stations on site. Nothing too exciting here, but it's still a lovely park and not a bad option for getting your steps in.

I come here to walk and reset. The smell and the transients can be off putting sometimes. They have…read morea park for the kiddos and disc golf. There is parking and a bathroom but the bathroom closes kinda early. It is located near the freeway so it can get a little noisy, I have to wear headphones to bypass that.

Trail/park

Pier

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The Big C

4.4

(76 reviews)

2.3 mi

It's a short and steep hike up here. However don't expect a blazing 'C' at the top. We went…read moreduring a hot day and there isn't much shade around the area. If you're looking for a short burst workout this is a pretty good one with a fabulous view. I'm sad the swing isn't there. I would have like floating in the air. We paid for parking by the wooden stairs. However, there must be another area to park for free as there were other hikers en route.

Fast hike with nice views but no swing and poorly maintained. There is a lot of construction in…read morethe area as well.

Wild turkey in the distance

Swing

The rope swing

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Hearst Pool

3.8

(20 reviews)

1.9 mi

TL;DR beautiful pool, beautiful gym…read more PLUSES: + outdoor pool = great view (campanile) + design is old, rustic, and beautiful + huge locker rooms + halls are perfect for a photoshoot

This 33-meter (108+ feet!) rooftop pool of Roman proportions and elegance is a treasure of the UC…read moreBerkeley campus. The locker room is approached by a walk through a sunlit hallway of old, multi-paned windows. The locker room is spotless, and fabulously equipped. Then, the pool itself...holy crap...first of all, it's on a ROOF, and it's made of MARBLE and mosaic tiles. And there are huge concrete terraces on which to sun and rest oneself, as well as to view eye candy from the waterpolo team doing leisurely laps as if just for show. The lanes are huuuuge so collisions are rare. In fact, it sometimes feels like the place is a secret even from the lucky students who can enjoy it, because I don't remember it ever being crowded. In fact, as the sound of the Campanile heard between breaths of the fresh Berkeley breeze blowing over the verdant quad can charm anyone into thinking that they are having a dream of liquid solitude. Here, I was able to break through my 2-lap ceiling and seal my love of swimming forever. Okay, one pain in the ass is that you have to pay a fee to rent out a locker...but at least you CAN rent out a locker! Another pain in the ass is that you have to wear a damn swim tag on your person to show that you are allowed to be in or around the pool in the first place...but the crispy, sun-yellow, and oh-so-filchable towels provided by the gym make up for all this... Yeah, so basically, there's nothing negative that can be said about this pool. It is a drop of Heaven on Earth.

Fantastic pool no matter what the weather.

Assessing the stroke

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Yet another sunny day at UC Berkeley's renowned Hearst Pool

Sticky Art Lab

My son just attended a birthday party in this little hidden gem. The space is inviting and the kids…read morehad so much fun . The instructors were so kind and engaging with the kids . My little boy is already asking to go back again ! Definitely recommended !

We just had our 10 year old's bday here! Every thing was great, and the kids really got in to the…read moreproject we picked (felt succulent gardens). Planning to come back soon for an adult night (or another private party with my girl friends!).

Front door of Sticky Art Lab

Tote bag stamping workshop.

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Screen printing workshop!!

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Karoenny A.

9 years ago

My kids have coming here for about 2 months and THEY LOVE IT! Chris is very patient with his students making our kids looking forward to "Muay Thai Days". Just in the short time they've been coming, I've seen improvements in not only their skills but most importantly their confidence! I would definitely recommend BMTF to any parent. And in October they'll start offering BJJ classes for kids as well! read more

Berkeley Muay Thai & Fitness - martialarts - Updated August 2026

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i played Division 1 football and this is some of the best training i've experienced in my life…read more many of my friends and family have no joined the gym. one of the last authentic bay area spaces. home to a great space and great coach.

Avoid this place at all costs if you're a young woman. Coach is disrespectful and makes sexual…read morecomments repeatedly in front of others, he cussed me out multiple times in front of everyone & would stop class to argue with people about meaningless things as he has a tendency to argue if you don't give him the answer he's looking for... the classes are rather fitness based than learning Muay Thai or boxing. I was only part of this gym for under 2 months before I had enough

SF Kendo Dojo

3.5

(4 reviews)

This is for the club that meets twice a week. Once in the buddhist temple basement and again at the…read moreJapanese culural center in J town. So if you are from here and started learning here. Then this place has a decent program. HOwever, if you are a transplant from Japan. USed to the Japanese teaching style then this may not be the club for you. The teaching style is much too different. I noticed that many of the club members who joined from Japan would often only stay a (at the most) a few months before quitting because well it was too different. I confirmed this with the leaving kendoka outside of class. I don't want to point out names. But lets just say some older teachers are overly brooding. I once did a text book Do and was told "Stop showing off this is not the movies". I thought to myself I'm sorry but "isshokenmei deshita kedo, kono shikatta nihon no sensei kara naraimashita"

Haters are gonna hate. Not gonna speak for the other reviewers on here because everyone experiences…read moreeverything differently. I just joined this dojo a month ago and I love it. The senseis are all really helpful to those who show great interest and are respectful. All of the senpais are super nice and friendly and so earnest in teaching a beginner like me. It's really like a close knit community that really focuses on the educational aspect. The sensei each have their own style of teaching and fighting in kendo, but together, they offer so much to all of the students. This is definitely not a dojo for someone who is looking for something casual to do. These people are dedicated to kendo and don't like to waste their time on someone who isn't paying attention and is only doing it for superficial reasons. What I really appreciate is that they're fine with you taking it slow because it's better to do it slow and do it correctly than to do it fast and wrong. So sure, the pace is slow, but I feel like I'm getting the full experience of learning kendo when we're so conditioned to do things very quickly and sloppy. Anyway, much love and respect for SF Kendo Dojo.

Ralph Gracie Berkeley Jiu-Jitsu Academy

(72 reviews)

I had an absolute pleasure studying judo here with Sensei Barry and Sensei Newton. They are very…read morenice and knowledgeable.

MMA Bravo Zulu

(51 reviews)

I was a little apprehensive when my son asked to join Bravo Zulu, bc I kept thinking of Cobra Kai…read more(the original Karate Kid version w/ Johnny.) But boy, was I wrong. Coach Nick, an Oakland resident, is strict but kind, and conducts the class in a calm manner. It's strictly a gym that conducts mma classes, not a weird "yes sensei!" dojo situation that I was afraid it would be. It's been really good for my son, learning discipline and hard work in what he calls a "very friendly environment." No "sweep the knee" situation here.

I joined back in March of 2024. The reason was because I wanted to learn how to fight and be…read moreconfident in myself. Overtime, I got very fit and became more confident. I participated in a tournament and fell more in love with the sport. Even during a small period when I was out of training, I still kept the discipline of wanting to stay fit and healthy. This gym has great coaching and a great atmosphere and it has helped me to become the best version of myself.

Live Oak Park Karate Dojo

(1 review)

This karate dojo is headed by Sensei George Nakahara who has been teaching for a long time. His…read morecommitment to helping his students is exceptional. The dojo is friendly and family oriented with parents often taking classes with their kids. Adult classes are on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, meeting in a side room at Live Oak Recreation Center.Saturday's class, which is larger, meets in the gym. Classes are low-cost but the instruction is excellent. Senior black belts also assist in classes.

Isshin-ryu Karate-do

(4 reviews)

I have been going to Berkeley Isshinryu for over seven years now, so I figured I should finally…read morewrite a review! Because you don't do something for seven years if you don't love it. BIK is a small, laid-back dojo made up of a diverse group of practitioners from many different Isshin-ryu "strands" and in some cases completely different styles of karate or other martial arts altogether -- everyone is welcome here, and over the years the dojo has benefited from getting lots of different perspectives on the style and martial arts in general. We work hard and take our training seriously, but everyone is primarily there to have fun while also learning martial arts & staying in shape. Many of us also hang out & socialize outside of class as well, and there are regularly post-class pizza & beer trips for birthdays, promotions, etc. Because of the small size of the class, everyone gets plenty of attention, both as part of the group and during individual work time. The instructors are positive and friendly, and provide helpful and constructive feedback in an encouraging way. Again, although we work hard, this is not a super-aggressive, testosterone-driven dojo, so beginners or people who are less excited about the combat aspect of martial arts don't usually end up feeling intimidated or uncomfortable (and people who *are* looking for a super-agro school don't tend to stick around for long). We usually start with 10-15 minutes of stretches & light calisthenics, then spend the rest of class on some combination of basic techniques, kata study, pad work, partner work, self-defense, or sparring. (Students begin sparring only when the instructors think they are ready, and with plenty of supervision; also, no one is ever required to spar -- or do anything else, really -- if they don't want to.) The intensity of the workout is more or less self-selecting; if you want to be sweaty & panting by the end, there are usually opportunities to work hard enough to make that happen. If you want an easier, gentler workout, you can always dial it back to whatever you're comfortable with & ready for. Highly recommend! Again, I wouldn't still be here after seven years if I didn't think both the class and the people were awesome. :)

Here is my husband:…read more I've been practicing with this dojo for almost a year now and I can't get enough, I love it. I started karate to get in better shape and this class has significantly improved my conditioning as well as redefined my sense of well-being. The first hour of class generally incorporates a range of stretching, challenging calisthenics, and empty hand techniques intermingled with a social atmosphere and chance to let the workday tensions unwind. The second hour of the class focuses on your forms (katas) as well as two person combination techniques, striking the pads, sparring, and numerous other applications. The instructors have great experience and work well with students of all skill levels. I was an Isshinryu orphan from the east coast and the transition into this dojo was very welcoming.

Baker's Martial Arts Cultural Center

(10 reviews)

Where I learned self-confidence…read more Grew up learning martial arts from the great instructors here. Can't think of a better place to train. Baker's is not just a school; it's a community.

I grew up at bakers and have been there for the longest time. It was here that I learn to be…read morediscipline and humble. Bakers made me have better confidence in myself as well as having a better sense of who I was. Everyone at bakers has helped me so much. Julius Baker is a great teacher who always encouraged me and pushed me to new levels. He is from the old school But has so much to offer. Everyone from kids to adults should train here if they want a great environment to learn Tae Kwon Do.

UC Berkeley Karate Club

(2 reviews)

I just love this club. While open to any style of Karate, the core discipline is Wado style…read moreKarate-do. Sensei Abe, a 7th Dan black belt, founded the UC Karate club more than 30 years ago, and has been teaching ever since. There are several other teaching blackbelts, too, providing varied instruction. Classes balance basic training, kata and kumite, with an emphasize on good form and efficient movement. The club is open to everybody, and part of UC Berkeleys Martial Arts program. If you're at all interested in learning this fascinating martial art, you can check it out for free for two weeks before having to join.

The Cal Berkeley Karate Club is great! The club is open to anyone, has a great sense of community…read moreand a long tradition. We train all ranks together which gives you a good idea of how skills will progress over time. If you have an interest in martial arts, this is a great place to start (or, like me, continue training). The hardest part is showing up... so check the http://karate.berkeley.edu website for the room number in hearst gym and schedule.

Moon Dragon Dojo

(1 review)

I went to this dojo for about six years before having kids, and studied martial arts (mainly Cuong…read moreNhu) for almost fourteen years. Moon Dragon's instructors are knowledgeable, friendly, and encouraging. While the dojo encourages self-control and discipline, it is one of the more relaxed environments I have found to study and share martial arts practice. There is a high level of teacher-student interaction -- you aren't just left on your own to struggle along, there's always a lot of encouraging feedback. I'd recommend this dojo to anyone -- maybe particularly to people who are new to martial arts, or coming back after a break, or seeking a feeling of community to go with the training. The high number of female instructors makes it a particularly welcoming environment for women seeking to learn self-defense techniques. I am now absolutely THRILLED to learn that they have classes for kids, and am hoping to re-enroll soon with my eldest!

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