Absolutely the best martial arts studio I've personally trained at. The instructors here really know their material so well they have even found the easiest ways to explain things to complete beginners. They have a nice mixture of classes that include options for all skill levels. Sensei Jensen is the best. I feel so fortunate to have trained with him myself for many years and now to see my son being given the same great experience really makes this place unlike anywhere else. If you want to get your children into a self defense class, this is the place. 6 stars. read more

Golden State Taekwondo - Taekwondo Near Me - San Mateo, California

I wrote a review for the last location but I really can't give enough credit to golden state for helping to raise me. I started training when I was twelve and Mr Jensen and Ms Pedersen took me in, kept me out of trouble, and taught me things that I'll never forget (and I don't just mean martial arts). In my years of training there i learned the discipline that has been the underpinning of everything I've done since and I know I wouldn't be where I am today without them. Oh and I can totally defend myself too!!! Haha But really if you want to learn martial arts from some of the best in the world and to be a part of a community join golden state. They've got great teachers and it's not a mcdojo. No one gets belts just for showing up you have to earn it. And I really can't emphasize enough how good this is for kids. There were guys I grew up with that got side tracked by relatively minor trouble and it really put them behind the ball. But it didn't happen to me because I was too busy training. I've since moved to the east coast but I really miss the studio. read more

What can I say? I am so fortunate that my children had the opportunity to get the training from Golden State Taekwondo. (Dippy and Prithy)... I would not have done anything without the guidance of Mr. Jensen and Ms Pederson. I want to thank all the wonderful , kind , motivated family members of this wonderful Club, for the care and support they've provided to me and my kids. Dippy and Prithy had achieved numberous world championships and I am very proud to say that it is because of Golden State Taekwondo. It is not just a club, it was always a second home for my children. Dippy and Prithy who have excelled in their own careers / or studies also would give the credit to this club. It is not just a club but a family instead. It is a home of world champions. Wish them all the best! Manidipa read more

Golden State Taekwondo - Taekwondo Near Me - San Mateo, California

I have trained under Mr. Jensen and Ms. Pedersen since the 90's. They are both extremely patient, ethical and kind; characteristics that are not common at many other studios. They are dedicated to their students and the art form. Many of their students have gone on to become tournament winners and instructors. The best part of training at Golden State Taekwondo is the community. There is a very positive attitude among the members that makes it much more rewarding than simply getting a workout or learning some cool moves. There are classes for children and adults and for many students this is their first experience training in martial arts. Mr Jensen is on site nearly every evening and is very welcoming to new comers and parents who want to check the place out. Golden State Taekwondo is currently part of Undisputed Boxing Gym as you can see here: http://www.undisputedboxinggym.com/ so don't be surprised when you see that out front. read more

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I wouldn't take my daughter anywhere else -- Golden State Taekwondo is the absolute BEST! Fantastic instructors -- they encourage and challenge the kids. They offer one week free. read more

Excellent. This gym has deep deep deep bench strength. Lots of dedicated & talented instructors and students, here at Golden State. I'll be sad to see them leave after 20+ years (?) in Foster City. They'll be relocating to San Carlos in 2007. Props to Master Chris Jensen. He's a great role model to the kids he leads and teaches. read more

We used Yelp to find a place for my son to do Tae kwon do. We found Golden State. He tried it and he loves Mr Jenson. He is strict but fun and very encouraging. Ms. Pederson is also excellent. He is progressing nicely and he gets a great workout. My only complaint is that there is no separate entrance from the boxing gym and you literally pick your way over bodies doing aerobics and dodge sparring boxers with flying sweat......gross! The parking lot is hectic if you attend the 6.30pm class. A great experience do far. read more

Golden State TKD is the real deal. Not one of the McDojo places where you pay $1000 and your kid gets their blackbelt in two months. Golden State makes you earn your blackbelt the traditional way-- hard work and discipline! They are one of the few TKD studios around that still uses hard wood floors too. The instructors will hold you, or your child, up to the highest standards in order to learn discipline, respect, and loyalty. They have trained numerous famous fighters and world champions. Golden State has strong, loyal students who are dedicated to the art and have become successful individuals with the help of Golden State. You will not regret your decision of just trying out a class! read more

The Golden State TaeKwonDo "karate" dojang (Japanese: dojo) will guide you, your child(ren), and your family with practical, traditional, and modern martial arts education that foster the strengths and skills needed to be more gentle, calm, and kind in our more complex and dangerous world. Holistically blending the traditional Okinawan and Korean forms (Japanese: kata), modern combative drills, and kickboxing oriented sparring to hone practical distancing, timing, and reflexes while developing the "Ikken Hissatsu (一拳必殺?: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ikken_hissatsu)" knockdown power with heavy "banana" bags and makeshift makwara (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Makiwara) training, all under attentive minds of caring instructor (sensei) staff spaning generations with diverse skills in boxing, Judo, and jiujitsu. Develop the practical martial arts foundations offered here first then express yourselves, if you like, in martial sports: Sport Karate, WTF Taekwondo (Olympic), kickboxing (American, European, or muay Thai), Judo, BJJ (judo and BJJ were developed from jujutsu), or MMA -or- expand your knowledge with hapkido. Here, you'll get more comfortable with the uncomfortable, learn to get back up, and hone your spirit. Getting scared and becoming scary happens to be a lot of fun, but does take proper, sincere, sustained effort under the guidances of trusted and experienced instructors. And if and when "it" comes, the moment when your are forced to save life, then you'll face it better with the exposure you've had at the Golden State TaeKwonDo. read more

We've been a member for around 6 months. Great atmosphere and instruction. I really like the individualized attention, and the skill building. read more

I had earned a brown belt in Shotokan Karate Do and a black belt in Tae Kwon Do before arriving in the SF Bay Area. I searched up and down the peninsula. I knew I would need to make some stylistic changes and learn new kata ("forms") for almost any school I chose. I was looking for a "hard style" school where the basic stances and movements were sound, the energy/spirit high, and where earning a belt actually meant something. When I visited what was then Mackowski's Tae Kwon Do, in San Mateo, I knew I had found my new home. When Marty retired, his top students created Golden State TKD, following in his footsteps and carrying forward the knowledge from a lineage going back hundreds of years. All the black belts followed them. They've had a dojang in Foster City, then in San Carlos in partnership with Undisputed Boxing, and now back in San Mateo. Sometimes it has been a short trip from my home, and sometimes long; but it has always been worth it. Sure, I could exercise at 24 Hour Fitness, where I have a lifetime membership. Sure, I could continue practice my art at any number of closer "McDojo"'s -- by which I mean schools that "sell you a belt" based on time and money rather than based on the quality of your techniques and the strength of your spirit. The folks at Golden State love children and truly help them grow. Many of our current highly ranked black belts began as children at GSTKD. Many go on to college and beyond, returning as doctors, lawyers, entrepreneurs, or other successful careers -- while continuing to train the next generation at GSTKD. There are classes for all ranks and ages -- elderly students are also welcomed (I'm 69 and will turn 70 in February, but I remain healthy by training at least 3x per week!). There are no limits on how many classes you can take, unlike some of the McDojo's. Students learn self-control, self-discipline, self-confidence, and self-defense, in a friendly, welcoming environment that feels like your extended family. There are many black belts available, so it is easy to get your questions answered and your techniques perfected. If you are coming from another style, the instructors will work with you to adjust to GSTKD's versions of techniques and set of forms. Many champions have come from GSTKD. Besides head instructor Chris Jensen, his partner Deb Pedersen, and other highly ranked senior instructors (including Mike Lipinski and Eric Lee) GSTKD training has contributed to the careers of Olympic champions (Dana Hee), NFL players (Roger Craig), professional boxers (Eddie Croft, Brian Schwartz) any many other successful athletes and athletically-minded professionals. Data shows that students do better in school when they train here and even youth with physical or emotional challenges can find the experience life-changing. Before you plunk down your money somewhere that promises you a "belt" in 2-3 years, while simultaneously limiting how many times per week you can train, you owe it to yourself and your family to come for a free trial lesson at a school that will help you hold yourself to the highest standards and then help you succeed every step of the way. Come to a school where martial arts truly is not merely a set of techniques, but a way of life, faithful to centuries of tradition. read more

Very professional and attentive trainers. Diverse training routines for all levels. It's the best Traditional Taekwondo school in the Bay Area. read more

Rock solid dojo. Mr. Jensen is such an expert in his field. This is a new studio and it looks great. I go to class every weeknight except for Friday's. All the instructors are awesome, patient, and knowledgeable. They have a weight room and padded wrestling area. It is nice during the summer because they can open the back garage doors and let the breeze through. Quite neighborhood and not to much traffic. I will be attending this studio for the rest of my life - never felt better. read more

My son started taking lessons at Golden State TaeKwonDoh when he was 7 years old. He only left when he had to go away to college, and even then, came in to train during vacations. The teachers are great at teaching the physical aspects of the sport (extensive, scientific warm ups and practices that emphasize injury prevention and longevity in the sport). In addition, they are also great at imparting life lessons. All those who teach are high achievers in some aspect of life, and are constantly extolling the virtues of hard work and consistency. This studio has been a part of our lives for over 14 years, and will continue to remain so. read more

Multiple family members have trained here, both as children and adults, group classes and private lessons. The owners are martial artists with the highest integrity, and they provide such a great environment for children. Excellent value as well. Train at Golden State TKD and your children will have better grades (proven), develop excellent character, self discipline, good manners, and self defense. We have been part of the family since 2001, followed them to San Carlos from Foster City, and we highly recommend in all respects! read more

Having had my 2 boys attending classes at Golden State TKD for the past 6 months. I have high praises for Mr Jensen, Ms Pederson and their team at Golden State TKD. They have created a nurturing and positive environment with individualized training without the "buy your way to your next belt" . You have to EARN your belt by mastering the required skills. Mr Jensen's life stories, Mr Lipinsky's fun style of teaching and sense of humor - as well as "games" (I think meant to build up strength and reaction time) keeps my boys faithfully coming back and looking forward to their lessons. Thank you Golden State TKD! Wish we had discovered you guys earlier! read more

Our daughter has studied various martial arts for 8+ years. This is the best run facility she has experienced. The atmosphere is conducive to learning, the kids have fun, yet the instructors keep everyone in line. A lot of these operations appear to shoot from the hip, This is a highly disciplined crew that manages to keep every student motivated and moving forward. We are relo'ing back East and GSTKD is the only thing our daughter will miss in Calif. read more

I really appreciated how Chris honored both tradition and thoroughly applied reality. My 5 and 6 year old girls love class, to my complete surprise - the teachers are so excellent with children and so skilled so I'm certain with adults too. Highly recommend! read more

This place is a true studio of the Arts. It was my home away from home and it was a great experience into martial arts. The instructors are serious and they do not teach anything less than professional material. Many of their students have gone out to become professional fighters and the club is close knit, but as most close knit things are, there can be a lot of friction in the studio between members and stuff. In addition, for some male adults, including myself, contact sports--and this is a contact sport unless otherwise stated by some party whether it be a student or an instructor--can escalate extremely quickly like in seconds and turn into a brawl of which many included me. Classes for the kids are good with caring, passionate instructors who volunteer their time to the passion of carrying this sport and tradition on to the future. This is a serious martial arts studio that can teach self defense, aspiring professionals, or just the average person who wants to try something new or do something or stay fit. It is really up to the member to make use of this wonderful resource. read more

The best in the Bay Area! Mr. Jensen and Ms. Pederson, the Master Instructors of this dojo/studio are caring professionals who are dedicated to martial arts and to their students. We feel fortunate to be a part of the Golden State Tkd family and highly recommend them to anyone looking for quality, integrity, no gimmicks/ no price gauging/no fine print. -New Student Special 1st month@$79 which includes a free gi/uniform. -Fee thereafter $129 w/6 month contract or $149 without contract -Unlimited classes ******************************************** Stop by this Sat 10/27 Relocation Grand Opening 1-4! read more

Every person who's considering getting into the Martial Arts should try out classes at Golden State. I can't say enough about the quality of instruction that Chris Jensen and Debbie Pedersen provide here. After I went off to college, I have had experience with many different clubs, and it is rare to have the quality and diversity of teaching that exists at Golden State. read more

Took a month by chance, 38 years now by choice. I started as a child and had to take Tae Kwon Do for one month. I've stayed with it ever since because of Mr. Jensen and Ms. Pedersen. They help all students, regardless of age and initial ability level to grow into capable martial artists. Golden State provides exercise and self defense training, but what sets it apart is the quality of instruction. It has developed tournament champions at all belt levels over multiple generations, rather than a select few star students. I encourage you to come in and simply watch a class to see the instruction that takes place. See if Mr. Jensen and Ms. Pedersen immediately try to gain your business, or if they chat with you and let you observe the class without any pressure. The history, quality, and integrity of Golden State speak for itself. Mr. Lee read more

The best dojang around! I've been going here for a year and cannot emphasize enough the quality teachers they have. The black belts are humble and super helpful, and often teach as well. They also trained Olympians and the students have earned toooons of trophies (only a small fraction sits in the studio). Ever since starting at Golden State I have gained so much muscle mass, precision with kicking, and improved my flexibility dramatically. I walk straighter and feel confident. The classes can be challenging, but the teachers are always patient and gracious. They offer morning and evening classes, as well as sparring and forms classes. Lots of children around too, which I love. Golden State is also a family, we care about each other and socialize/banter around all the time. Though not a super upscale dojang, it's cozy and feels familiar, and you can come as often as you like. Golden State TKD has become my happy place. Thank you so much Mr. Jensen & Ms. Pedersen for this amazing place! read more

Golden state tae Kwon do had helped my child achieve many great obstacles! I am very proud of him and the accomplishments he has gotten. Golden state tae Kwon do is like a second family to us and their attitude is great! They never judge and they are awesome. read more

Golden State Taekwondo is a gem among marital arts schools. The instructors are incredibly dedicated and clearly enjoy teaching. They set high standards and expectations for all students, from the oldest to the youngest, which is challenging, but attainable with hard work. The best part of Golden State TKD is the community, I've found the environment positive, respectful and supportive and many friendships develop as students train together towards their goals. read more

If I could give 1million stars for Golden State / Mr. Mackowsi's TKD - i would ! Chris Jensen is the most inspiring sensei as well as a person I have ever met. This guy works out EVERY Single day and has dedicated the majority of his life to em-better students not only with martial arts, but in life as well.....you cant ask for more with a (traditional) martial arts school. This place has so many student success stories, you could go on forever talking about it. And you can't find an inch left on the walls displaying all the accomplishments. This is the ONLY TKD/Karate school to attend in NoCal, period. read more

Excellent TKD Studio! Instructors are all top notch -- and very helpful for novices -- both for kids and adults. Highly recommended.

Ms. Pedersen and Mr. Jensen are awesome! They are truly dedicated to the art - and most of all to their students. I began my TKD training about 4 years ago and I have been addicted ever since. The emphasis on perfecting the basics is what makes Golden State Taekwondo so unique, and yet challenging. The instructors are well-rounded, supportive, and patient. read more

Having tried other studios in Redwood City & San Carlos I can confidently say this is THE place to be. Mr Jensen & Ms Pederson are true professionals and run a well respected club. You actually learn the traditional techniques in a fun way. The real test is that multi-generations of families train here. Fathers & Mothers trained here first as kids & now there kids come too! Everyone is welcoming & you immediately feel part of the group. You don't learn some pretend stuff and get your belt for showing up like so many places these days. Do your homework & you will find Golden State is the best place there is. read more

Great setup for martial arts training: across the street from running/biking area viewing the San Mateo bridge, has its own weight gym including areobic machines along with martial arts and boxing equipment and mirrors for technique training. Located in a small shopping area, away from crowds and other public distractions, ideal for undisturbed workouts. Open with limited hours but have instructors experienced in both competitive and traditional martial arts. read more