We've been part of this gym for almost 4 years, and I can't say enough good things about it. All of…read morethe parent coaches are wonderful, but Coach Chris and Coach Ed stand out as truly exceptional. They not only teach Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with patience and skill but also instill important lessons about discipline, respect, and following instructions. What makes this place so special is the family-like atmosphere--everyone is welcomed and supported, and my kids look forward to every class. We're so grateful to have found a gym that cares just as much about character and community as it does about technique. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a BJJ gym

Looks fun for kids. They have toddler group lessons but realistically, the kid would have to be…read morearound four or older to really get it. Regardless, the sifu's try hard to get everyone involved.

Exceptionally good training . I have trained in various styles in different cities over my adult…read morelife and can confidently say that this is the best overall training that I have found Effective and reality-based but without the edge some places have

I've been training here for 6 years and I still look forward to each class. Ive done martial arts…read moremy whole life (Karate, Boxing, BJJ) and none of them are like Urban Combat. This place is focused on real life and how those arts come together with actual common sense for dealing with potential situations. The classes include fun workouts, lessons in various martial arts / weapons, and film study on real situations. Brian is an amazing teacher - hes not lecturing from the sidelines, he is right there with you showing you how its done. If you are interested in learning actual self defense strategies separate from traditional martial arts - this is your place. Its a bay area hidden gem! Note - this place is in the Karate studio (parking in the back).

Updating my review since our family recently moved away from Menlo Park. My daughter started taking…read morekarate at USSD alongside my son and they both loved it. Since I came to the night classes here as well as the women's kickboxing class, I've had plenty of opportunity to get to know the instructors (Teacher Caldwell, Teacher Willie, Jodi, Brian, etc.). They are not only all excellent teachers, but friends that our family will miss. Since this location hosts many classes, I'll break down the review into each class/instructor Karate: My kids (ages 5 & 7) just tested for their yellow belts here and are both eager to continue karate. They tell their friends about how much they love their class. I was so pleased with their instruction that a close friend started her kids training here as well. Teacher Caldwell is kind and patient with the kids, and Teacher Willie's energy makes him one of the kids' favorite teachers. Kickboxing: The women in this class have become good friends. I loved this class so much that I would tow my younger two children (5 & 2) to class when I couldn't get babysitting. Jodi is energetic and knowledgable and let my kids play (or held my toddler) while I trained, which is a rarity. Expect a hard cardio workout with a lot of focus on careful technique. Tuesday/Thursday night grappling/striking: I made this class less frequently than the others but was always glad I came when I could. Willie brings the same energy to this class that he does to the kids' karate class, and I appreciated learning not only from him but from the other class participants whose experience surpasses my own. Grappling is (in my experience) focused on BJJ and takedown techniques while striking is strikes/kicks. Both classes often involve sparring, which I've found to be one of the most helpful ways for me to put what I've learned into practice. Monday/Wednesday Urban Combat: An excellent self-defense/HIIT workout class. I left a detailed review on the Urban Combat Yelp page. Martial arts has become one of my favorite things to do, something I'm hoping to teach in the future, and a source of discipline and confidence in my life. I owe it all to the investment and mentorship I have received through this studio, and I will miss it dearly. If you're looking for a solid martial arts experience for your children or for yourself, USSD is as good as it gets.

The instructors are all well versed in their arts, and have a terrific appreciation for those who…read morecome to learn. From beginners to those more advanced everyone comes together in a supportive, and motivating, way that fosters challenging one another to improve themselves. I have had the pleasure of participating in both the Urban Combat, as well as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes and would highly recommend it to anyone seeking to learn self-defense, as well as those seeking a wonderful alternative to an hour and a half at the gym.

My son started training at Redwood City Martial Arts Center and it changed how he approaches…read moreeverything. He set the goal of earning his black belt, and the discipline he learned on the mat carried straight into school and daily life. He has achieved his brown/black belt and is on his way to a full black belt. Sr. Master Hafez Adle and the instructors hold kids to a high standard. My son learned to focus, follow through, and earn his progress through effort. That kind of character building is hard to find. If you are looking for a program that teaches your kid more than kicks and forms, this is the place.

My son is neurodivergent, and finding a sports activity that supports his confidence, focus, and…read moresocial skills hasn't always been easy. Kuk Sool Won has been an incredible fit. Master Hafez Adle is patient, kind, and truly understands how to meet each student where they are. He celebrates progress--big or small--and create a welcoming, respectful environment for all kids. My son looks forward to every class and has grown so much in confidence, coordination, and self-discipline. I can't recommend Kuk Sool Won enough, especially for families with neurodiverse kids who want a place where their child is seen, supported, and included.

Pros: Instruction is consistently terrific, and the regulars there are friendly and welcoming. It's…read morein a convenient location, and at an excellent price. Cons: I'd like to see the mats cleaned more regularly, and I wish there were showers in the building. The street and permit parking can sometimes be annoying.

Good instructors, good hours, and good attitudes.read more

Will is the best martial arts instructor I have ever had. He…read moretreats everyone with deep respect and kindness. He pays attention to everything that is going on in his academy. Nobody gets left behind here. He makes sure you get the instruction you need. His new location in Menlo Park is cozy and quiet. Tucked away in Menlo Park, this location is great and it gives a wonderful calmness that matches the head instructors personality. I love training here and bringing my children to train here. Will is very particular about the kind of students he accepts into his academy. He is determined to maintain a relaxed and family-friendly environment. Guys with big egos who are looking to smash are not welcome here. The training I get from Will has saved my life and helps me develop a healthy lifestyle so that I can continue training. Which I hope to be able to do for the rest of my life.

Respectful, fun, great parking in a low key area. Will is an excellent instructor who exemplifies…read moreand expects respect to and from all students. SVBJJ is a great place to train. Professor Will Dias has been a Black belt instructor for well over a decade and is the best instructor I've worked with hands down. I'm very happy to have found this 5 star Acadamy. Happy training!

Come visit and join @ Caio Terra Academy BJJ we look forward to learning Jiujitsu technique togetherread more

I've been a student here for over a year, almost exclusively in the morning (6:30am) gi classes…read more I've had an incredible experience and deeply appreciate the people and curriculum here. I was previously at a different academy which was very "loose" in terms of the teaching style. Whereas at CTA Palo Alto, the week's lesson plans are posted in advance and linked to helpful videos from the online curriculum. It's rigorous and structured in a way that has helped me progress much more quickly. The house style is technical and detailed, which means it's a bit harder to learn, but more likely to work in a real world setting and against higher belts. Everything makes sense and is explained very clearly. The instructors are open to questions and give useful feedback during class. There's a great community vibe and I respect and enjoy the people I get to train with here. I recently started my son in the kids program and he's loving it too!

I regret that I didn't learn Kung Fu long ago as it's made a tremendous positive impact on my life…read more I did actually try a few classes throughout the years, but they were always lame in some way (e.g. lots of shouting, too macho, too much like dance class). SiFu Don's class is perfect. A wonderful combination of exercise, practical instruction, and learning elegant ancient Kung Fu forms. SiFu Don is impressive in his mastery of his art, yet undertstated in his manner. He will encourage and inspire you to achieve more than you imagined you ever could, but is also kind and understanding of your current ability level. He translates complex movements into simple step-by-step instructions that he demonstrates meticulously and gently corrects you as necessary. I couldn't recommend this class highly enough!

Always wanted to learn kungfu?! Then take this class!…read more This class under Sifu Don is a great way to introduce yourself to the discipline of kungfu, especially if you're starting from zero. Sifu Don brings years of kungfu training and does a great job of translating it into a learning environment. Everyone hears of draconian kungfu teachers with their insane punishments, but thankfully, Don isn't like that (though he's still badass). Instead, he understands the various skill levels and physical limits of his students and provides gentle encouragement along with lots of one on one attention. Whether you want to explore a new hobby or revisit some old kungfu skills, come to class, bring so loose fitting clothing/athletic gear and a willingness to learn something that most people suck at right off the bat. Doing Bruce Lee caliber moves as a beginner will take time, sweat, and (hopefully very little) blood, but this kungfu class provides that road.