Our daughter (7 years old) has been training at this martial arts school for over a year now, and I can honestly say it has been one of the most meaningful experiences of her childhood so far. When we first enrolled her, it was simply to introduce a new form of exercise and help build her confidence. But what we discovered was so much more than just a class--it became a place where she grew, matured, and found something she truly loves. From the very beginning, I noticed how happy she was every time she stepped onto the mat. Watching her focus so intensely during class and seeing how proud she was of her progress made my heart full. Her confidence has grown in ways I never expected, and the joy she brings home--even practicing on her own--shows how deeply this has resonated with her. One of the things that stands out the most is the incredible consistency and structure the dojo maintains. The principal and the foundation of this dojo are grounded in expectations that are strict, but completely reasonable. Students are expected to come prepared, stay focused, practice, and give their best. And what's remarkable is how the instructors carry that same tone throughout every session--firm, supportive, and unwavering in their commitment to holding each student accountable. This level of structure has helped our daughter thrive, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. Each Sensei is compassionate, attentive, and truly invested in each child. They all make sure each student receives equal attention, no matter their pace or personality. I love not only rooting for my own daughter but finding myself cheering for every child in the room. You can actually see them growing--not just in technique, but in kindness, courage, and respect for one another. What moves me the most is the culture Freestyle Martial Art has created. Yes, the kids compete with each other sometimes, but afterward they show such kindness and encouragement. They lift each other up. They celebrate each other's wins. They comfort each other's frustrations. That kind of environment isn't an accident--it's a direct reflection of the teaching, leadership, and values here. We are incredibly grateful for the impact this school has had on our daughter. Her confidence, her focus, her discipline, and her sense of pride have all blossomed because of this place. Watching her progress under such exceptional guidance has been a gift, and we look forward to seeing her continue to grow in this amazing community. If you're looking for a martial arts school that teaches more than just technique--one that shapes character, builds confidence, and creates a truly supportive culture--this is the place. read more

Great place for kids to learn martial arts. Mr. Miller is very patient with children. He teaches kids to be respectful and to follow rules, but creates an environment that's fun for the kids. My son loves coming here! read more

Incredible place! My daughter is very shy and her time at Freestyle has given her a great amount of confidence. The instructors are talented, the facility is clean, and my child is being challenged. Freestyle has a lot to offer children and young adults. read more

Sensei Anderson came out to my company to host self defense presentation! It was amazing, everyone had a great time and learned a lot. Thank you for making our team feel comfortable for learning the martial arts! read more

Freestyle Martial Arts - Self defense presentation held at company - Martial Arts Near Me - San Diego, California

We've been bringing my son here since he was 5 years old. He's now an almost 10-year-old and on their junior performance team. We even moved further north and still make the trek down to Point Loma almost every day for training. We love the experience we've had. They are character development based rather than fighting-based. The kids are very talented and the senseis listen to my concerns and over a safe environment for my kid to excel physically and as a whole person. read more

This review was written my my 10 year old son : This incredible dojo has taught me a lot in the 3 days I've come here. It is great because of the family oriented martial arts. It also has an amazing sensei, amazing students, and is very positive. I would recommend it to anyone at any point in their marital arts career. I would say it's great for beginner as well. Undoubtedly this is an incredible place to learn self-defense. read more

Fantastic, nurturing community of senseis and students in a convenient location in Point Loma, right next to Phil's BBQ. read more

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The staff team is fantastic! They do a great job investing in kids lives and have created an environment that brings the best out of each student! My son Kai has really flourished under their leadership and guidance. read more

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What a place! I spent a year passively looking and listening for the right martial arts experience for my kids, but nothing was seeming to fit. All of a sudden, I heard about USAFMA three times from three different sources in the same week, and they were all cult-like in their enthusiasm for this place. I could sense that no matter what I was told, these friends had an itch for me to experience the dojo, because it seemed much of it couldn't be put into words. Phrases like "changed our lives" and "so good for my son" and "so much more than martial arts" were repeated in as many ways as they could be phrased. I think it is telling that in the Mission Statement for USAFMA there is little reference to the physical experience of martial arts and instead direct attention on the care, nurturing, and character development of your child. Even the best parents need support and reinforcement for the lessons we are teaching our children, and too often it does not come from school in the way that we would like: consistent, thoughtful, well-planned, fundamental, and practical. USAFMA is as much a character school as it is a martial arts school, but the difference is that character is taught very actively here, not simply as a passive aspect that comes automatically with learning martial arts. The teachers here are truly incredible. They seem to be a carefully chosen lot for their incredible ability to hold children to high standards and encourage them at the same time. The problematic 'trophy-for-all' mentality in our society is lessened here (though there are at times trophies-for-all) and instead kids are expected to hold themselves to high standards in order to achieve recognition. This is one of the best aspects of the culture at USAFMA - that a student's success is truly determined by their choice, not simply by paying and attending class. The martial arts instruction itself is remarkable. It is programmatic, consistent, high-energy, intense fun clearly designed for mastery. I know of two WORLD Champions who are products of the instruction and culture of USAFMA, and it doesn't surprise me in the least. The freestyle nature of the discipline allows the instruction to mix the best of everything, and being able to box and kick and fence and use weapons absolutely thrills my kids. Finally, in addition to excellent martial arts instruction and character development, there are great activities regularly that build a fantastic sense of community: movie nights, skill seminars, belt testing, tournaments, and camps. These mixed-age, mixed-gender experiences brings kids together who share not only a common activity, but a common interest in being their best, and there is no other group of kids or adult mentors I could hope for my sons to be influenced by. read more

WOW! I can't believe I am the first to review this place! This Dojo has a strong position in the community and a large family membership. My daughter has been attending karate classes here since she was 6 and has continued through the different belt levels over the last 4 years. She really needed help with confidence and the environment was perfect for that. They do demonstrations and teach classes in the community to encourage discipline and self-respect. I took a self-defense workshop with them at my job and the tools I gained are invaluable. I believe this is a great place for someone who wants a non-aggressive and open introduction to martial arts, all the way up to someone who wants to compete on a national level. It's a place for the whole family. read more

I have never posted a five star review before on Yelp, but there is no other way to describe USA Freestyle Martial Arts. My daughter was having a difficult time getting started with sports. After attending a camp with USA Freestyle she was hooked! She is learning so much more than martial arts. She is learning respect, growing in confidence and is eagerly taking on more responsibility. My daughter has always been a good girl, but I cannot tell how much these classes are helping her become a strong, confident, respectful individual. Thank you USA Freestyle Martial Arts. read more

USA freestyle This is been a true blessing for our family building confidence and focus and determination. This family oriented Dojo is all about the kids. Sensei Jackson and since Sensei K truly strive to teach the kids how to be at their best. Sensei JOEY is great with the four to six year olds!! Come on out!! World Champions in Demo Freestyle 2017. They know what they are doing!!! read more

I have a 3 year old who has been attending FMA for two months. He is learning to follow direction and how to move his body better. Recently he passed the first belt test and was promoted to a camo belt. It was the first accomplishment and I was very proud of him. read more

A big thank you to Sensei K, Sensei Jackson, Mr. Watson and the rest of the associate instructors at FMA!!! They do a wonderful job with our 5 year old son! We are so happy to have found FMA for him, and have enjoyed watching his progress over the last 2 years! He loves going to class and what he learns at FMA has helped him so much to focus his seemingly unlimited energy! This is the best program in San Diego for young ones to learn values and skills for life! FMA's curriculum incorporates public speaking, listening skills and discipline, in addition the the physical training. They provide a safe, caring and encouraging atmosphere for their students to learn! If you're looking for a martial arts school to instill discipline, confidence and great values for your child and help set them on a path to a happy and healthy life, look no further-I cannot recommend Freestyle Martial Arts highly enough! read more

My seven year old son has been going to Freestyle Martial Arts for two years and he loves the mental, physical and emotional challenge that Freestyle Martial arts provides. It's not only teaching him martial arts, but how to be in the world. In January, sensei Jackson taught the kids how to set goals for the year and held them accountable to set his goals. I recently took a women's self-defense course with sensei Jackson and would highly recommend it to any woman or high school or college-aged young lady. The factual statistics were eye-opening and the physical part of the course left me feeling much more confident in defending myself. read more

We have been attending USA freestyle about a year and we love it! It has helped by busy 5 year old boy with focus, eye contact, respect and he has already learned a lot of "ninja moves" (his words) Mr. Joey is amazing at keeping a class full of kids completely engaged! I hope to continue coming here for years to come! read more

My 6 year old son has been taking Karate at USA Freestyle for the past few years and we love it! It's really helped with his focus, confidence and self-discipline. Joey is an incredible sensei! He is kind and nurturing but firm. He's great with the little ones. USA Freestyle facilities a community for the families that all want the same things for their kids. They have great events like Easter Egg Hunts, Halloween parties and the Summer Party. All great events that the kids and parents love. Not to mention their mind blowing world champion demo teams. Do a search on you tube for their performances. They're amazing! I continue to be impressed by this place everyday. Keep it up USA Freestyle! read more

Seriously some of the nicest professionals my son has had the pleasure of interacting with--he's 6 and has been taking classes for nearly 2 years now. They consistently strive to instill values like RESPECT and PATIENCE and are genuinely invested in their clientele....and their picnics are AWESOME (as in they go all out). Props USA Freestyle....you guys rock. read more

Tonight, USA Freestyle Rocked!!! USA Freestyle shows why they are #1. Sensei Kikuchi and Sensei Jackson, bring out the best in all the students. High 10's for all the kids and the Sensei's!!! Night in and night out Excellence is on display at this Dojo!! The kids were exploding with excitement and enthusiasm - smiles and lots of hard work is what you will see at this Dojo. The intensity is truly amazing to watch!! Like Fireworks, the kids were proud and pumped and smiling while being challenged by their Incredible Leader, Sensei Will Jackson. There is a High Level of Respect, Honor and Leadership at this Dojo, the teaching & leadership is Outstanding!!! USA Freestyle never disappoints, it is a Dojo sustained by Excellence!!! There is no other that can compare. USA Freestyle is a house, founded by Sensei Darren Kikuchi, where there is always a smile on his face, he is never to busy to help out a student or answer a question. He always offers positive words of encouragement to students and Sensei Jackson ends the nights with Words of Wisdom to the students!!! The Sensei's are filled with such incredible energy, their hearts are filled with such spirit, pride and wisdom. Once you walk into this Dojo with your child, you won't want to walk out! You will want to have your child become part of this amazing Martial Arts Academy. Thank you USA Freestyle, you are One in a Million, helping our kids become Leaders for tomorrow and having our kids walk out feeling SKY HIGH and like WINNERS!!! Butcher Fam read more

We are so grateful to be part of the FMA team. They are so well organized. The instructors are all incredibly patient and kind. Sensei Watson is so great with the kids. He really brings out the best in my kids and he is a great role model. I have recommended them to all of my friends with kids! read more

If you want a community, this is the martial arts center for you. I took many months of adult classes and learned from the teacher as well as the students. It is a wrap around, family-oriented learning center. Art, defense, community and action in one solid center. Take your kids here and register yourself. It's located near places where you can run your errands too! Very convenient parking and the folks who run the day to day are very kind. Truly great service. read more

When my son was 3, and the Power Rangers were the center of his life, USA Freestyle Martial Arts brought a calm to our household as he was now able to begin his trek to becoming the Red Ranger. A funny thing happened along the way though, as he got older, and his interest in the Power Rangers waned then disappeared, his desire and eagerness to continue with USAFMA grew. Not only did USFMA grow on him, it has grown upon our whole family. My three children are now actively involved in taking martial arts here. In my oldest daughter, the level of confidence I now see in her, would put a smile on any parent's face, as she now does not shy away from unfamiliar situations, and even her teachers at school note she participates more in class. My middle son, the ex-power ranger, has increased in his physical abilities, his levels of confidence, in addition, although he is still young, is showing more pronounced levels of maturity in certain situations. Last but not least, my youngest, is truly enjoying himself with kids of his own age, who as he is now learning about themselves more, and building a strong foundation of respect, physical fitness, and personal confidence. I would be remiss in writing a review, if I did not state that USFMA has shown my family care, respect, and true friendship. They truly care about all of their members, from the Cool Cats (the preschoolers, and kindergartners), to the Karate Kids ( where my kids are now), to the Teens, to the the adults, and community. The instructors (senseis) have gained the respect of the student, and the parents, by not only working with the students in the dojo, but as well by encouraging and rewarding community service, and academia. The life lessons offered are a perfect compliment and reinforcement to those all parents offer or want to offer to our children. In this crazy world we live in, it is nice to know that there is a safe place where kids can be kids (of all ages), without the threat of malice or negativity. With even moving further away, the distance traveled, is nothing compared to the value, the life lessons, the physical exercise, the martial arts skills developed, and of course the friendships my children and our family have made. There is no comparison ... going on 6 + years, we are proud to call USAFMA our home away from home (3-4 days a week). USFMA is a place for families. Thank you for all you do, and your wonderful senseis and support staff (We thank you collectively, as I wouldn't want to miss anyone, or embarrass anyone :) Thank you.) read more

My kids are little balls of energy. Even more than most children. The team at FMA is wonderful with them. One of my favorite things is that they treat my kids like I do: they respect them, love them, but they expect attention, respect, and hard work in return. My kids Andrew and Lynn LOVE it there and hopefully we're on the path to black belt! read more

Priceless!! USA Freestyle covers all the martial art necessities and goes a step further by connecting to their students, parents and truly creating a community of empowerment. This studio has helped with my son's confidence, strength (his PE teacher says he has the best push ups) and has taught him equanimity which is priceless especially in a nine year old. We should all be taking classes at USA Freestyle! read more

My 5 year old son started here about a month or so ago. It's awesome! All of the instructors are great and really care about each kid. My son has been diagnosed with ADHD and it's great to see him learning to focus and listen. I would highly recommend USA Freestyle Martial arts to anyone who's kid may be interested in learning martial arts. The facility is really nice as well. read more

I don't even know where to start this review, there are so many wonderful things to say. I am a teacher and the program that they have built here makes most classrooms look out of date. Everything they do is researched based best practices for education. Seriously. I have been going to behavior management and character building seminars for years as part of being a teacher, and I think I would have been better served watching the instructors here. They treat their students with dignity, and respect, all the while maintaining high standards and expectations. My 4 year old LOVES his classes. He is growing leaps and bounds in his karate skills as well as his character. Every teacher makes it a point to know every child's name. They have so many hands on deck, even the larger classes feel personal. I love everything about this program. I am so impressed. read more

I've been taking my kids to USA Freestyle Martial Arts for months and they enjoy every minute of it. Not only do they learn self defense, but they also practice public talking, teach good life lessons and great exercise. Nothing but good vibes at USA Freestyle from the front desk to the parents, students and senseis. I can easily recommend USA Freestyle to parents that looking for a sport, character building and more. read more

This is the best karate studio! The instructors are extremely kind and the kids love attending class.

Our 5 year old went to the Tiger Tot class for over a year. It was an amazing experience for him, as they focus and help train kids on not only karate but also discipline and public speaking. The program is really well tailored for kids and I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to improve their child's discipline and ability to stand in front of their peers. read more

This place has been awesome, my son has discovered a new passion. They run a family friendly well structured Dojo with Sensei Kikuchi leading the team. I would highly recommend this Dojo. read more

FMA is a very structured dojo that's amazing with kids! Our kids have learned the arts and are constantly improving with their skills. Highly recommend this training facility and glad our kids are part of the family! read more

My daughter was hesitant and timid at first but I have seen her confidence and proficiency grow very quickly. The school and teaching techniques improve not only their martial arts skills but also their life skills. The sense is truly care and it really becomes like a family. I cannot say enough good things about this school. Their adult students who grew up through the program are a great example. read more

FREESTYLE MARTIAL ARTS has been a great dojo for my two boys to learn not only martial arts but also important life values and work ethic. We have been coming for the past 3 years and have enjoyed our time here. They have many special events throughout the year that are special and fun for the kids. I highly recommend this dojo. read more

My 5 year old son has loved the tiger tots program and it has helped him tremendously already with patience, focus and discipline. The instructors are positive and wonderful! read more

An amazing dojo and an amazing place to learn. My two sons have been going to USA Freestyle Martial Arts for more than five years now and have already learned lessons that will last a lifetime. I cannot make a stronger recommendation for someone considering putting their children into a martial arts program. read more

November 20, 2012 Some say it takes a village to raise a conscientious, considerate, confident, and respectful child. We say it takes a dojo. Not just any dojo; USA Freestyle Martial Arts. The Senseis, Black Belts, Jr. Black Belts, Underbelts, staff, and parents all create an amazing atmosphere where students can learn, excel, and venture out of their comfort zones in a safe, nurturing environment. Our 16 year old daughter recently tested for her Black Belt. She was challenged mentally, physically, and emotionally. She was ready for this challenge because of the commitment she made and the support she got from everyone at the dojo. We also made the commitment to stand by her on her journey. We rearranged our schedules, changed our vacation plans, and made sure she was where she was supposed to be when she was supposed to be there. As we watched our daughter test we thought about her journey and her progress. Before us stood a confident, well trained, extremely fit young lady. Seven years ago she was a shy, quiet young girl. She was more of a follower than a leader. She would speak when spoken to but you could barely hear her voice. The young woman standing with her peers testing in front of a large panel of Senseis and Black Belts was not quiet, shy, or intimidated. She stood proud, and respectful. She was loud, and you could definitely feel her intensity and get a good sense of her inner strength and her physical power. Thank you USA Freestyle Martial Arts! D. Adams Parent and Elementary School Teacher W. Adams Parent and Supervising Counselor read more

My 4.5 year old son has been taking karate at FMA for 1 year. It has been an amazing experience for us. My son is very active and very energetic; Focus can sometimes be a challenge. We have watched him grow and develop over this past year and have noticed great changes in his abilities to listen, follow directions, and pay attention. The instructors here are amazing, especially Sensei Joey. He has an infinite amount of patience and treats all of the children with respect and kindness. I love that my son is learning to develop important character traits emulated by all the wonderful instructors. I was unfamiliar with martial arts before joining FMA, but I quickly learned that this is exactly what my son needs in his life. It will help to shape him into a kind and disciplined boy. I honestly can't say enough about how well they cater to the little children and their developmental stages. They are really the best at what they do. read more

My daughter comes here for the cool cats program. The classes were okay and at times made me wonder if I made the right choice because it's quite expensive here. The uniform isn't included with the Yelp deal and it added a significant amount to the final bill. On another note, my sister has a her daughter over at White Dragon in Clairemont and I think their is more participation in students over there. I'll continue and see if anything changes before updating my review. read more

Can't believe I am the first to review this place. It is AH.MAY.ZING. My son started taking classes here a couple of months ago, and I am beside myself about how much I love it. First of all, every sensei is so great with the kids. They are all so positive and motivating. They have the kids engage in fun warm-up activities, and of course teach the essentials of martial arts. My son loves to teach me the "right" way to do roundhouse kicks, a horse stance, etc. But it is the teaching of the whole-person concept that I love most about this place. They teach: respect, patience, discipline, courtesy, confidence, good sportsmanship, perseverance, etc. The senseis ask about their homework, how they are doing in school, my son even throws in a "yes, ma'am" once in a while when talking to me! Perhaps other dojos emphasize citizenship as well as learning martial arts skills, but it is the people here, the family feel, the genuineness of the senseis, just the whole package, that makes coming here weekly something my son and I greatly look forward to! read more

Our five year old son started at USA Freestyle about two months ago, and we love it! He asks every single day if he gets to go to karate. The program is very well-balanced, and even includes a public speaking segment. He leaves feeling encouraged and excited. He gets out a lot of energy, but also learns focus. We are new but so far, it's perfect for us. Give them a call and go check it out...it's worth your time. read more