I drove by this dojo so many times on my way to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and was always curious about…read moreit. Then one day, the owner actually joined my Jiu Jitsu school as a brand new white belt. We ended up training together, and over time I got to know him as a person, not as an instructor trying to sell me something. Just a genuine guy starting his own martial arts journey in a different discipline. After a while I finally asked him about his karate school, and he invited me to come try a free week. That was two years ago, and I'm honestly really glad I walked in. Not only did I stay, but now my kids train Shito Ryu Karate here too. It's become part of our weekly routine and honestly a big part of our life together as a family. I can't recommend this place enough, if you are thinking about it, just go and see for yourself. Sensei Alfonso and Sensei Sarah, you guys are amazing! Thank you so much for everything you've done for my family.

My son loves this place! He loves the camaraderie and the instruction. I recommend this place for…read moreanyone looking to get into martial arts for whatever reason.

I've been attending the various classes offered at Gino's school for almost a month now and have…read moreloved the experience ever since. As an on again off again martial arts practitioner myself, I wanted to find a gym that offered great instruction and a profound level of patience for more analytical, and sometimes hesitant, practitioners like myself. Thus far, I can say that Gino's teachings, and the atmosphere all his students provide, has kept me coming back for more. The training is definitely challenging and grueling at times, as does any great martial arts studio provides, but well worth it when you can walk out of there knowing that your fitness level and self defense confidence increased that much more. For those of you trying him out, I highly suggest coming to the open mat sessions too. It will really help you tighten the holes in your fight game. Also, the monthly tuitions are by far the most affordable compared to other gyms in the valley.

From the owner: We specialize in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for adults and children with respect to black belt…read morecertification, tournament combat development, self defense technique, and variations on Mouy Thai, Mixed Martial Arts, and Vale Tudo.

I was looking for self defense classes and cardio fitness when I found UMAC Palm Desert…read more This is something totally out of my scope, but with just 4 lessons down, I'm pleased with my find! Mark is knowledgeable and He's "all in" as an instructor. He is as interested in your progress as he is in his own of KRAV MAGA. Sessions are one hour long with lessons on defensive moves, safety, and perfecting your own practice. Scenarios are applicable to real world. As a woman, I learned that this is practical and applicable to the society we live in today. Children's lessons are available as well. The first lesson is free and you can choose your plan and as often as you would like for flexibility scheduling. Boost your confidence and try it out!

Love the instructor and me and my husband learn so much every class! We have gone 4 classes and I…read morehave so much knowledge already!

In martial arts, mutual respect and trust are foundational. When that breaks down, nothing else…read morematters. I have about 6 years of prior martial arts training, so I know what a properly run school looks like. That's why I recognized very quickly that something was off here. I signed up and prepaid for a 3-month Kendo program. At enrollment, I was told it would be 4-6 months before needing a uniform and longer before investing in gear. That changed almost immediately. By week two, I was told to buy a uniform, and by week three I was asked to prepay for a full year. At that point, I stopped training after about three weeks. Months later, after repeated follow-ups and having to go in person to push the issue, I finally got the uniform ordered. When it arrived, I was told it had been given to someone else--even though I had already paid for it. I was also told I would receive a partial refund in March. That never happened. I returned once more to try to finish what I had already paid for, but the class itself reflected the same issues--disorganized instruction, students unsure of forms, and basic oversights (such as forgetting required gear mid-class). I walked out. For me, this wasn't just about money--it was the consistent gap between what was said and what actually happened, along with ongoing pressure to pay more early on. Based on my experience, I cannot recommend this dojo. I would strongly advise anyone considering training here to ask very direct questions up front and think carefully before committing financially.

Love this place! My daughter loves coming to class, environment is safe and friendly.read more

Hand to Hand Martial Arts in Twentynine Palms is super beginner-friendly for adults. Sensei Aaron…read moreis knowledgeable and explains techniques clearly, so it's easy to follow even if you're brand new. The vibe is respectful, and training partners are controlled and safe. It also feels genuinely girl-friendly with supportive training partners. Pricing and class length feel fair, and they have occasional open mats too.

Aaron is an excellent adult BJJ instructor. Both Gi and Nogi glasses are available and offer…read morevaluable training for both sport and self defense situations. It's a comfortable training environment with a great community of people.

We signed up my son in February 2026 and have been impressed. All of the instructors/black belts…read morehave been amazing. Their boot camps are a great way to make school breaks fun and improve their skills. The location is well kept, plenty of space to stay and watch class and ample parking. Options for 1-5 days a week. I highly recommend giving it a try.

We have three boys that have been coming here for a year now. All the masters have been very kind…read moreand helpful. Our boys love coming here and always feel very welcomed. Highly recommend Kim Hapkido!

My kids have always been very active, but I struggled to find a sport where they would listen to…read morethe coach and learn discipline. We first tried jiu-jitsu, but the one-hour classes were too long for their attention span, and they quickly lost interest. I was looking for a place where they could feel centered and truly enjoy learning. When I called Yamashita Karate, I explained everything to Sensei Eric, and he was incredibly polite and understanding. He suggested that my kids come for their first class just to see if they liked it. The classes are only 30 minutes, twice a week ,the perfect amount of time for them. I can't express how thankful I am for Sensei Eric's kind and professional approach. He has earned my kids' respect, and now they listen, focus, and can't wait for the next class! He also talked to them about stranger danger, which was so helpful , they really understood how important it is to be aware of their surroundings. Now they're having classes with Sensei Emily, and they absolutely love her! She shows them so much love, patience, and encouragement every step of the way. I can honestly say that this is the best place you can choose for your kids. It teaches not only karate but also respect, focus, and confidence. P. and N. love you all and truly enjoy every class!

My wife and I cannot say enough great things about this dojo! We are new to martial arts and were…read morelooking for an additional activity for our 9 year old son. He is in soccer and dance and I thought adding this to his life would round him out. He absolutely loves it! It is his favorite thing to do! And I think part of it is Sensei Kelly, Sensei Tim, Sensei Eric, and Sensei Karen. You hope at least one of your kids teachers will be great but we lucked out with all 4! They love the kids! They are great with them! We just wish we found them sooner.

My son has been attending here for about 6 months. He enjoys his lessons and I appreciate Scott. He…read morecares about the kids. Prices are reasonable and the classes are fun for him.

We send our 5yo son and he has improved so quickly under Scott's instruction. He is patient, kind,…read moreand takes his time teaching the kids their moves. My 2 yo daughter has even begun picking up some of the moves from just watching. Scott Haga is a man of integrity and is a great Sensei to children and adults alike.