They aren't kidding when they say things like "ego free" or friendly. Definitely want to sign up…read morewith them. Went with my teenage daughter and she was into it too. I'm glad they exist!

I highly recommend Lightning Hand Academy because they teach techniques that can be used for…read morepractical, real world self defense, it's a great workout, and the school has very good, supportive community feel. Full disclosure - I studied with Lightning Hand regularly from early 2016 until August 2017. In July 2017 I met someone in Washington, dated long distance, then moved so I wasn't able to make time for martial arts. I thought I had written a review for LHA 4 years ago and just found that I had not, so I figured late better than never! I was primarily interested in practical self defense and a good workout. I was afraid of making the mistake of "studying the wrong martial art". The Wing Chun approach seemed practical to me - techniques are all standing up, emphasis is on close range & punching technique, early techniques are very simple which makes them faster to cement into muscle memory. Wing Chun doesn't do high kicks, which are flashy but high risk and in my opinion unlikely to be used in a real life self defense situation (by the time you know someone intends to actually attack you, not just posturing, they are inside kicking distance). LHA's class approach creates a good training loop in my opinion - warm up, discuss ideas and theory, practice smaller skill subsets - agility or striking drills, then integrate smaller skills into practical fighting application by sparring, repeat. Enough variety in techniques and drills to keep you from getting bored, but also comes back to basics frequently to make sure they are solid in your muscle memory. There can be BS (or fear of BS) around martial arts, but I felt LHA was a very low BS environment. All humans have egos, so Ray would regularly talk to the benefits of overcoming your ego, because it gets in the way of learning. Students are expected to teach each other by being good training partners, and held to this expectation. I was once corrected by Ray in I thought a very skillful manner. I was doing a drill with someone that is supposed to be about sensing and technique, but I was using muscle to overpower my partner. Neither of us were learning what we were supposed to be. Ray came over and swapped my partner out, and did the same exercise with me. He was pushing me all over, but I could feel that he was using better posture and technique, not muscle force. I was tiring quickly and he was barely exerting effort. He asked if I still feel strong. This was pointed enough that I understood his meaning clearly - knock it off! But also conveyed one to one so I was not embarrassed in front of the class. I got really clear from this teaching moment that I was responsible for helping others learn and resolved to be a better training partner. COVID has made a lot of things difficult, but I believe LHA is still operating, doing remote training. There is a lot in Wing Chun you can learn practicing solo with minimal equipment - forms teach correct movements, you can practice striking with a wall bag full of rice that will cost less than $30. The best training experience will still need another person, but maybe you can recruit a friend or significant other to train with you? If you're feeling cooped up and would like to try learning a new skill, there is no time like the present!

The quick review: This school has world class teachers, a welcoming environment for all levels of…read moreexperience, and provides some of the best, most relevant instruction in the US. Full review: I started training in CA in 2010, and joined RGPDX about 2-3 months ago after visiting each of the top schools in Portland and taking private lessons from their instructors. Both the classes and privates were the most thorough and impressive I've ever experienced. I've taken classes with Aaron, Eddie, and Hannah mostly, and have been blown away from the start. I can't say enough about their skills as practitioners AND teachers; they are truly invested in their students' growth, are able to pinpoint the holes in their students' games that need improvement, and have an unbelievably vast knowledge of relevant, high-percentage, high-level techniques. They offer a ton of classes that can fit any schedule; early morning through night classes, GI & NOGI. Kids classes, adult coed classes, and women only classes are all available. There are showers, locker rooms, 3 bathrooms, huge upstairs mat, large downstairs mats, a weight room, and they keep it the cleanest facility I've ever seen. The teachers protect the students by fostering a safe practice environment and promote a laidback space while simultaneously taking the level of skill of their students seriously. Most of the teachers compete and win regularly, monthly, staying at the edge of what works at the highest levels of the art. If you want to be the next world champion, go here. If you're thinking about joining to get in shape and have no interest in competing, this is your spot. I came from another school as an 'upper belt' and was immediately humbled yet accepted as if i had been there since day 1. I improved more in these last few months than I have in the last few years. I guarantee you will not be disappointed and if you are, come find me in class and punch me in the stomach.

At age 52, I am two months into my jiu-jitsu journey. Especially since I was starting relatively…read morelate in life, I was intimidated to walk into any jiu-jitsu school. But at Renzo Gracie I have been thrilled to find not only amazing coaching but a welcoming community of training partners. I roll with much more experienced bjj players every week, and they are welcoming, accommodating, and happy to share their wisdom. And for praise I'll single out Ruben, who teaches most of the no-gi fundamentals classes: the guy is just a profoundly gifted coach. Lots of people can demonstrate techniques, but he has a terrific understanding of the basic principles that each of those techniques are based on -- you get to understand not just how to do things, but why, and how they tie into the broader goals of jiu-jitsu. I love jiu-jitsu now, and I'm sure that this place and these people are a big reason why.

Wally Jones has created something genuinely special at Southwest Portland Martial Arts and CrossFit…read moreHillsdale. I've known him for only a few years, but in that time I've come to appreciate how unique his leadership, attitude, and teaching style are. Before joining, I'd heard plenty of stereotypes about CrossFit. That it was overly intense, competitive, and full of ego-driven athletes trying to out-lift each other. Wally's gym couldn't be more different. From day one, he made it clear that this is a space built on collaboration, respect, and personal growth. Wally fosters an atmosphere where you're encouraged to go at your own pace, focus on form and technique, and celebrate progress -- not perfection. He emphasizes lower weights and correct movement over brute strength, and that simple philosophy keeps people safe, builds confidence, and creates a lasting love of training. Wally's coaching style is constructive, humorous, and deeply human. He gives feedback that makes you better without ever making you feel small. He's the kind of coach who'll crack a joke mid-workout to keep spirits high but also knows exactly how to tweak your form so you get it right the next time. Even on days I don't feel like working out, his energy and encouragement make it worth showing up. What's equally impressive is how Wally treats people. He's accepting, thoughtful, and leads by example in the way he treats every person who walks through the door. Whether it's handling an awkward situation with grace, like gently escorting a confused stranger who wandered into class... or picking up garbage left in the parking lot just because it's the right thing to do, he embodies integrity in small, everyday actions. Wally's not trying to be anyone other than himself. What you see is who he is. No performance, no pretension, just genuine kindness and a sharp sense of humor. That honesty creates a community where people of all backgrounds feel welcome. If you've ever been hesitant to try CrossFit because you thought it might be intimidating, Wally's gym will change your mind completely. It's a place where effort is celebrated, individuality is respected, and laughter is part of the workout. Simply put, Wally Jones has built one of the most welcoming and grounded fitness communities you'll ever find.

My 6 year old has taken a few classes here and loved it. The teachers were great. The other…read morestudents were great. We are really lucky to have them here in our neighborhood. This place is way better than a bank occupying the space. (BofA used to be there)

Amazing group of people. Excellent instructor. Serious practitioners that are welcoming and want…read moreyou to succeed.

A great training environment with great people. Thomas is a fantastic teacher and the group has…read moregreat comradery.

It's a wonderful with school with awesome instructors. I always have fun learning and training…read morethere

Good instruction. Great people. Omar knows his Jiu Jitsu and it shows in his upper belts.read more

Portla dThai Chi has been operating in Portland for the better part of 20+ years. It was my…read moreintroduction into martial arts of any kind and certainly kept me from becoming one of America's fattest children. It was the first time in my life I was able to do splits and really apply my ability to defend myself. Though my philosophy on self-defense / combat has changed considerably through my current practices of Jeet Kune Do, I still have a lot of respect for those who take the time to practice some aspect of self-defense. It's awesome for fitness and provides some level of self-discipline while channeling a whole new level of self-confidence. The process of belt promotions and facilities maintenance is sure to have changed since I first attended years ago. There were all sorts of students ranging from various ages and an even number of boys and girls. Prices were modest back then and are likely to be significantly higher now. Just remember that engaging in any type of martial arts is going to be pricey, it just depends on how what you might consider reasonable. For those who are looking for something different and a nice way to get fit, I encourage those in the area to seek Dave to begin a new journey in martial arts.

Daniel is just straight up lying. The kids' main only coach left for a job in Salem and when I…read moreasked why it was not a look of 'I'm sorry I'm leaving,' it was a look like don't let them catch me talking about it. Not a good look. You are the one of three people that I would not be in a room alone with ever. NO CHATS, no nothing. Please do not write back to me on here as you gross me out as much as the yeast smell. The class schedule is fine unless you have mother that had a stroke right after you trained for a marathon and there is no "pausing" for family emergencies. They straight up don't care and I have watched them cross the line with teen girls. Gross.

I joined Traditional Taekwondo in 2019 with my two kids. It was just supposed to be something fun I…read morecould do with the kids, but I absolutely fell in love with it. Even through the pandemic, Master Johnson went above and beyond to keep students engaged, whether that meant classes via Zoom or classes in the park. I have never done a sport in my life, and this past spring (2025) I got my black belt - at age 51! The classes are rigorous and the instructors are extremely skilled. In addition to getting a great workout and learning an incredible traditional martial art, I have discovered a community that is supportive and dedicated. I highly recommend Traditional Taekwondo to students of all ages.

My son has been going here for awhile and loves it. It's great for exercise and his self-esteemread more

I've been doing martial arts for quite a while. When I was between schools a friend recommended…read moreFlying Tortoise. Been there about a year now and am very happy. The quality of instruction is excellent. Joey and Kate are excellent teachers, and they have taken students from beginners to mastery. We got a friend's child interested in the Capoeira class, and it has been a wonderful experience for him. Can't recommend them highly enough

I went for my first ever martial arts class this week. Joey was an incredible teacher, so kind and…read morepatient, willing to answer any and all questions. I felt very welcomed and comfortable in the space and with the other students. Everyone was required to wear a mask which made me comfortable being at an in person class. I love their emphasis on inclusivity and acceptance. I will definitely be starting my journey here and will be bringing some friends that have also shown an interest in martial arts with me to future classes.

i feel sad to leave a poor review of a place i've never been, but therein lies the problem. i want…read moreto learn Muay Thai, and i've been checking out places all around town, looking for what "feels like home" to me. i'm also not experienced in any fighting arts, so it felt important to me to try several places. sadly, it seems classes at Portland Thai Boxing are so full or overflowing they can't manage to get back to me, or they don't care/don't want my business for some other reason. i've tried emailing them twice (one week apart) from different email addresses. i've also tried DM'ing them on Instagram. they seem to have the time to make IG posts and stories but haven't bothered responding to my DM. i would have jumped at the chance to sign up for their unique 6-week fundamentals program. this place was recommended to me by a friend who is a local fighter and very passionate about it, but i guess i'll never know.

Very disappointing experience with Portland Thai Boxing…read more I wanted to train while I was visiting Portland and PDX Thai Boxing seemed like an awesome spot. I emailed the gym to ask about waivers/drop-in fee but didn't receive a response. I figured I could handle everything when I got the the gym. Once I got to Portland I decided to take the 10am Monday class. After spending the money to take a Lyft to the gym, I get there and no one was at the front desk. Someone pointed me towards one of the coaches and I asked him about a drop-in fee. The coach informed me that PDX Thai Boxing doesn't do drop-in's because of Oregon Covid policies. Apparently I was supposed to sign up for some online portal that would've let me sign up for class. Since I didn't sign up, I couldn't train. The coach informed me that there was a phone number I could call to talk to someone and then asked me to leave the gym (he wasn't mean or disrespectful about it). I called the number and got a voicemail. The coach was doing his job and the policy is this policy, but it sucked to get turned away from the gym. I should've called ahead, that was my mistake. Overall, the whole experience felt really bad. The worst part is that the gym looked really nice! If you're looking to train here make sure you call ahead or you might get turned away.

As a student, I am thrilled to recommend this school and its staff. I have trained at several…read moreschools over the years and this one stands out for several reasons: 1. It is very welcoming and supportive; the community is strong and friendly. Some schools are very businesslike, or don't encourage students to be friends outside of class; this one is the opposite! 2. The style is very eclectic. You will learn to punch and kick, but you'll also learn to use weapons and to move in several different distinct ways. This style of martial arts has a lot to learn and challenges my mind and body every class. 3. Speaking of challenge, this class is a full body workout. I never step off the mat without getting really sweaty. The teachers make time to encourage you to drink water frequently during class. 4. This school and community are extremely inclusive. There are at least any many women and trans students as men; frequently men are in a drastic minority. There is no "bro"/macho culture here as there is in many other schools. While it is somewhat expensive for the number of classes (2-3/week at least as a beginning adult student) you get access to compared to some other schools, the pricing is not a secret (it is shown on the website and the staff will be happy to talk with you about it), I feel it is worthwhile based on about 10 years of training in other schools (even ones that cost less and had 10 classes a week).

I have trained at One With Heart since 2019 and the community and the excellent teaching keep me…read morecoming back! I love the workout I get and even if I've had a bad day, I always feel better after class. The school was also a great source of stability and community for me during the pandemic, and I will always appreciate the strength I gained from my teachers and classmates during that time. Highly recommend checking out an intro!