My pre-teen daughter has been attending Innovative Martial Arts for just over a year now, and I'm so grateful we found this school. Her first experience in martial arts was when she was two years old; she attended Primetime Martial Arts in San Jose. We loved the close-knit family atmosphere there, and we wanted that for her again when we moved back to Roseville when she was four. Once businesses began to open again after the Covid shutdown, we signed her up for a trial at Kovar's. I'm sure it has its benefits, but it wasn't a good fit for us. It felt too commercial with the instructors wearing microphones to project their voices. The atmosphere was just too business-like and not a warm and welcoming environment. Later we tried a BJJ studio in Rocklin on the recommendation of an acquaintance. I don't remember the name of the school, and it did have a better overall feel than Kovar's, but it still wasn't quite right for us. I don't remember any overt negatives about it; I just knew after the first visit that it wasn't what we were looking for, and my daughter immediately expressed the same as we left. After a fair amount of searching online, I found Innovated Martial Arts in Rocklin. We signed up my daughter for a trial, and she decided very quickly that it was the right fit for her. Mr. Nunneley has a great team of instructors; though, I have to say both he and Mr. Watson are truly excellent. They bring to class a sense of calm and are diligent in providing guidance to the students and correcting their form when appropriate; I very much appreciate that. My daughter is naturally shy and quiet, but Innovative MA has been a comfortable place for her to be vulnerable and learn since the beginning. Over the last year, she has noticeably grown more confident and self-assured, and I attribute much of this to what she's learned at Innovative MA. She's since progressed to greenbelt and sees herself staying with Innovative MA at least until she moves away for college in the future. I strongly recommend Innovative Martial Arts to anyone in search of a martial arts school for their child, and I sing their praises to all of my friends and family. Thank you, Mr. Nunneley, Mr. Watson, and the entire Innovative team for all that you've done and continue to do to teach my little girl! read more

I was really nervous for my autistic son to start a new activity, he's had issues with other schools and gyms, I never want to start off saying he's autistic because then everyone starts pushing the extra costs or suggesting one on one for more fee, we did the first week and I was shocked with how patient and understanding everyone was without knowing of his spicy neurodivergence. It's been two months now, hes become more respectful and patient at home, his confidence is through the roof and honestly it's one of the better choices we've made. So happy with this school and how they treat all the students read more

Clean location and friendly staff. We are completely satisfied with our experience here. The staff is amazing. I highly recommend this place to all my friends, especially with young Children ages 5-13. The older kids can attend the adult class! We love this place. read more

See all

Excellent experience for my daughter. She is new to martial arts and is feeling more confident every time she goes.

Kids Martial Arts in Rocklin has been a huge pillar in our youngest son's and our family's life. He started Martial Arts there at 4 years old, 3 years ago. Being the youngest of 4 kids he's always felt the need to make his presence known and sometimes that was physically or by yelling. Mr. Nunneley and his team have helped him learn new ways to channel his frustrations and how to communicate better. We appreciate the team of teachers there so much. They have created a safe and respectful culture to nurture a great community while learning defense skills. We're grateful for the well rounded program they've created and proud to be a part of the Innovative Martial Arts Family. read more

Innovative Martial Arts - Martial Arts Near Me - Rocklin, California

Great place for kids to learn martial arts and get stronger physically and mentally. I really like how the program is built, my are really enjoying it . Being in the program for a year I see a huge improvement in their skills. Highly recommend! read more

Innovative Martial Arts was a fantastic experience for my son. He started when he was 5 and each step along the way was led by a respectful, encouraging, and positive role model. The classes were fun and taught my son life lessons he will never forget. We are so thankful for Mr. Nunneley's time and efforts. We highly recommend his classes! read more

Best place for kids! Great coaches! My son is really picky in sport, we went to couple of places this one his favourite for sure!

Innovative Mixed Martial Arts (IMMA) is simply amazing!! My two kids are attending classes currently and my third child has done private lessons with Sensei Nunneley in the past. We love this school for the following reasons: (1) The curriculum is a mixture of various martial arts disciplines. You get the best techniques of all the various types martial arts. (2) My kids' self-confidence has increased exponentially since they started training at IMMA. My kids see themselves as athletes, disciplined individuals and leaders. (3) The teachers at IMMA are so patient, caring, kind and make martial arts fun! (4) The school curriculum is not only about martial arts, but they also talk about other life skills and values such as leadership, friendship, problem solving and self discipline. (5) They offer a variety of classes at various times of day. (6) There are no hidden fees such as extra belt fees or testing fees. You pay one flat monthly rate only. There are no contracts. I could go on and on about how amazing this school is. We've been a part of this school for many years now and we've been nothing but pleased. I unequivocally recommend Innovative Mixed Martial Arts for your martial arts needs. It's more than just a martial arts school, it's family. -K.K. read more

Mr. Nunneley and Mr. Watson have been amazing! They are both always polite and make the kids feel comfortable enough to show more confidence. Our daughters love going to class. read more

We have had a really good experience here. The male instructors are calm and steady role models for the kids. They have a quiet strength in leading the kids and they plan the classes to include some fun at the end. My daughter is gaining confidence in her body and skills. They have created a welcoming environment where learning and growth are prioritized. They have many options to fit different schedules during the week and also put on family events throughout the year. I would encourage others to try a class and see what they have to offer! read more

Jake is the most patient, kindest man I have met in a long time. He teaches self control, respect and martial arts in a fun environment. His staff is down-to-earth, funny and great with kids! read more

The staff here are so amazing! They are attentive, passionate, and really help you learn. I started taking my kid here and she loved it, so I thought I'd give it a shot too. Best decision I've made in regards to my physical health! It's a tough workout, but it's so much fun. Jake and the rest of the IMAA family have been a pleasure to work with, and I can't wait to continue my martial arts journey with them! read more

We love IMA! Mr. Nunneley is a wonderful leader and teacher. My daughter looks up to him. He welcomed her into her first class and made her feel very special. She looks forward to going to each class and is learning valuable skills and lessons. read more

My daughter attends the little dragons class. I've seen a big change in her focus from when she started class to now. No matter how many kids are in the class, each student gets the same amount of attention. Mr. Nunneley has a tremendous amount of patience with the kids and I can tell the kids enjoy having him as their teacher. On top of Karate, the kids learn a new message each week that they can incorporate in their lives. I enjoy hearing my daughter talk about class, her friends, her teacher and what new moves they are doing. read more

I found picked Innovative Martial Arts over three years ago in part because of the positive Yelp reviews, and I wanted to pay it forward for parents searching for martial arts options for their kids. At the time, my son was having anger issues and I wanted a venue for him to deal with those issues. Not only did Innovative Martial Arts help with his anger issues, it's helped him with his discipline and self-confidence; as well as his skill level as a martial artist. The dojo has provided my son with a safe and positive atmosphere where he loves to go I've also noticed that the school has been incredibly inclusive to every kid who has joined. My son's plan is to continue with martial arts until he achieves his goal of attaining his black belt. The experience was so positive for my son, that we have enrolled our two other children into the school as well. Innovative Martial Arts is an amazing school. Jake creates an environment that is welcoming and inclusive of all of the students. He creates structure that scaffolds success for students to get to the next level in their training. And for the little ones, he includes games and fun to keep them engaged. read more

Mr. Jake is fun, kind and very patient with the kids. His class sizes are small to medium allowing for individual attention when needed. My son loves the friendly welcoming atmosphere of this studio. read more

Innovative Martial Arts - Master Jake and student during board breaking - Martial Arts Near Me - Rocklin, California

This program has helped my son stay focus and disciplined. Jake does a great job at keeping the kids engaged while still having fun. I've seen a huge improvement in my sons attitude since starting 7 months ago. read more

I enrolled my 5 year old into their little dragons karate program and he absolutely loves it. The instructor is amazing and has such great patience with the kids. He teaches great life lessons, discipline and respect. He also teaches them how to deal with bullies and that diffusing the situation or walking always is always the best option. I highly recommend Innovative Martial Arts! read more

This place is amazing! The instructors are so impressive with all the kids, incredibly patient, and they give each child so much attention, even in a full class. Mr. Nunneley, Mr. Cyrus, and Mr. Brissy are all just wonderful with the kids. They really make an effort to make all the kids feel comfortable and welcome, and provide a very safe environment. I'm so glad we picked Innovative Martial Arts, and I can see it benefitting my child now and in the long run. Thank you!! read more

We've been coming here for over a year with my now 6yo. The classes are varied in time which makes coming a few days a week pretty feasible. Promotions and belts are included in the monthly fee which is nice. The owner is super patient , and has 2 young boys of his own so he understands. The other teachers are wonderful young men and fantastic examples of what our kids should be growing up to be! read more

my husband and I highly recommend Innovative Martial Arts. Our son has been attending classes there for over a year and we definitely have seen positive changes in his behavior, focus, social skills and confidence. He is enjoying his classes and the fun game at the end of each class. There are classes everyday thus making the schedule more flexible. plus, the instructors are very approachable and great in what they do!!! read more

Brought my daughter crying because she was afraid to try. Now, she absolutely loves it!!! She does not miss a class! Jake is awesome!!

I signed my kids up , after the school said my 3rd child had ADHD. This really helps to get their energy our , teach discipline, and how to follow instructions. It's fun, teachers are amazing . read more

Innovative Martial Arts - My kids love it here ! - Martial Arts Near Me - Rocklin, California

See all

Once upon a time when I was a wee lass, I was enrolled in a martial arts class which I loved. It made me feel strong and happy in a time when I was not sure of who I was and I was being somewhat bullied as the new kid at school. Then the happy sanctuary, that was the karate studio, was taken away by an awful sense of entitlement on the behalf of the Grand Master's granddaughter (ah nepotism) when I sparred against her at a competition and won. My life at that studio became such a living h-e-double hockey sticks that I quit and never looked back. Earlier this year, my son asked me if he could enroll in a karate class because he loved Power Rangers and when he watched it at Grandma's house he would imitate the moves of the rangers and make Grandma super tired (just by watching him). I was so hesitant to put my son in a situation that could turn out to be like my experience and I had heard some horror stories about other dojos from other moms on the schoolyard and how the instructors were berating instead of patient and demanded attention and respect rather than commanding it. Then, on my son's 7th birthday, I happened to be talking to a friend whose son was in the same first grade class as my son and I told her that my son had been asking me to find him a karate class and that I didn't know where to start. She ran to her car and gave me a business card for Innovative Martial Arts and told me that she loved the instructor because he was extremely skilled, but also spoke to the kids in a loving and respectful manner. I told her my reservations and she assured me that this was just the place for my son to attend. So we went over to Innovative Martial Arts afterschool on my son's birthday, which also happened to be pajama day at school, and he took his first trial lesson in his PJs. I enjoyed watching the rapport between Jake and his students and more importantly the patience he had with my son as a new student. He started the class with his message of the week (which over time I have completely come to appreciate because it makes my children aware of making good habits, having good manners, treating their parents with respect, etc), did some warm up and then it was on to the fun stuff, the cool moves! Jake runs each class in the same basic structure so that the kids know what is expected of them and they can strive to do their best each class. My little one loved his class so much that just seeing how accomplished and confident it made him feel was enough for my older son to ask if he could be enrolled in karate class too about a month later. The day that my older son joined (and believe me, you couldn't wipe the smile off my little one's face when I told him he was SO cool that his BIG BROTHER wanted to be just like him!) they both tried Jiu Jitsu for the first time. My older son ended up absolutely loving Jiu Jitsu and now they do both Jiu Jitsu and Martial Arts practically every day. But wait! There's more! (no, you do not also get a set of ginsu knives with purchase, sorry about the infomercial voiceover) In June, Innovative Martial Arts ran a Father's Day special allowing dads to train free the entire month. (Yes, moms got to train free in May, but I just never did). My husband decided to give it a try. The adult class is, of course, a bit more serious work than the kids' classes, but it's every bit as much fun and my husband really respects and enjoys the company of Jake as a teacher and the other students in the class. Training together at Innovative Martial Arts actually helped my little family get closer. Dad works late and the kids rarely got to see him and even when we did have some time off, my husband was the (self-professed) laziest man in the world. Now he is more fit, I think he has more energy and a renewed sense of purpose, he sometimes helps in the Juniors class and the kids love having their dad around more, showing an interest in something they both love. And for the final kicker... I finally got over my fear of my past experience in karate and I joined too. Initially I did it for the workout since the yoga studio I attended closed down suddenly and left a void in my Zen-path, but this morning I got to throw punches (padded) at my husband and he encouraged me to do it...that's gotta be some kind of win, right? Thanks for everything, Jake and Innovative Martial Arts! The End - thanks for reading my novella read more

I love being part of the Adult Self Defense Program. Multiple time offering and great atmosphere. We're like a little family. Always have a great time! Jake is great at tailoring the class to what you need or want. This is a low key environment where you don't realize your actually learning skills which could help you. Observing the kids program, it looks like the kids truly have a great time and Jake is committed to teaching. Obviously having long running opportunities to just shoot it with Jake, I know that he sincerely and truly loves to work with the kiddos. As a former pro/teacher in another sport I can tell you that Jake really knows the proper teaching methods and he has that commitment to ensure fun, learning and a lifetime of skills and values. Jake is also a pillar of the community, holding open events on bullying, hosting tournaments. I can't recommend checking out IMA more! read more

My daughter has been going to Innovative Martial Arts since June 2018 and she loves it there. We had put her in another martial arts school and the instructor did not care as much. So we looked around and are so thankful to have found this place. The teachers here are awesome and so patient with the students there, especially with my daughter because she's a talker. The teachers here really work with the students to make sure that they are learning what is being taught and how to do it correctly. I also love the fact that Mr. Nunneley also teaches the students about being a caring and productive member of society. It's not just about martial arts, but also about the different aspects of life. I would highly recommend this martial arts academy to everyone. We live in Roseville and make the drive to Rocklin because this academy rocks! You won't regret it! read more

My son has attended judo classes at Innovative for the past year, and I can't write enough good comments about the school and the senseis. The school is small, but clean and well-managed. Sensei Jake, Sensei Shane, and Sensei Ted are extemely patient and encouraging with all students, especially the kids. There is a focus on respect, positive behavior, and fun. If you are looking for a martial arts school for yourself or your child, Innovative is the place for you! read more

Innovative Martial Arts - My son doing sumo at the end of class. - Martial Arts Near Me - Rocklin, California

See all

I can't stress how great this place is. They teach the discipline but they don't use scare tactics like the last two places we've tried. They use positive reinforcement and have the most patient, kind instructors. Definitely worth a trial class! read more

My son has been going to Innovative Martial Arts for almost three years. He started as a Little Dragon and now he is an advanced purple belt. He has matured so much and his confidence has grown. Jake is fantastic instructor and is so patient. I highly recommend IMA!! read more

Amazing martial arts place, especially for young children. The instructors are very patient and have worked really hard with my strong-willed child. I highly recommend! read more

I cannot say enough wonderful things about this school. My 4year old absolutely loves coming to class and asks to go every single day. You can tell the teachers here truly cares about their students. I love that on top of their martial arts moves, they also teach the children about discipline and respect and are not afraid to correct a child if they are misbehaving. I also like that it's just one monthly fee with no hidden or additional costs like I have found with other schools. I highly recommend this school and you can't go wrong with their free uniform with the first month trial period. read more

My son has been doing martial arts since almost 6 yrs now. Jake has been a great instructor and motivator as we see our son grow from a shy little toddler to disciplined and strong boy. They also discuss about martial arts history, respect, focus, discipline, bullying , healthy eating habits etc.. which is very important for kids to grow! read more

Great place. Awesome instructors. Reasonable price. Been coming here for almost 4 years now and my son loves it.

I have been bringing my 5 year old nephew here for about 4 months now. Every time I stay and watch I can see that the instructors care a lot about the children. They are teaching the kids about having a good attitude, maintaining good habits and being responsible and respectful to everyone they encounter. The other children are so well behaved. I'm amazed how friendly and well-mannered they are. Big thumbs up to the wonderful staff. I highly recommend this business! read more

My son started here about 4 months ago. Since that time, his behavior and confidence have both improved dramatically. Jake (or 'Sir' as the students call him) is incredibly patient and kind. He has a way of keeping the students in line without degradation. My son enjoys every lesson here and is thrilled to show off his new skills. Pros: Payment is easy with automatic payments. Teachers are in constant contact and easy to reach. Children learn valuable skills for the present and future. Many opportunities for students to engage outside of class with special workshops. Cons: I wish there were more times available. It is HOT. Lol but this isn't anyone's fault. It's just a small building with a bunch of people in it. Hopefully someday there will be an expansion! All in all, I highly recommend this place. We will be here for a long long time. read more

The owner here is one of the best instructors you could have! His training program is so great, you will forever remember what you learned no matter how long it has been since you last went to a class. Jake is a great teacher for both kids and adults and has a great work ethic with his employees. You will never feel as if you are just in a class, you will feel as part of a great team where everyone works together and no one is left behind. If you are interested in learning martial arts, you should definitely make this your school. Thank you Jake for being a great instructor! read more

Innovative Martial Arts, Mr. Nunneley, and his staff are all amazing! We enrolled our kindergarten-age son on a trial basis over a year ago, and we could see a big difference in him right away. His confidence has been given a boost and he is learning the importance of respect for self and others. Mr Nunneley teaches so much more than martial arts. They have huddled in class where they discuss important topics such as eating healthy foods, respecting parents and teachers, being responsible, stranger awareness, bully prevention, etc. These class discussions have been invaluable for us. Our son is really proud of himself when he works hard and earns his black and red belt tips, and when he earns his next belt. It's awesome to see him grow and learn that hard work pays off. We also booked the studio for our son's birthday party last year and the kids had a great time! They were all tired out too by the end of it. Win win for both kids and parents! read more

My son loves Innovative Martial Arts. The teachers are great and his confidence and self-esteem have improved. Highly recommend.

My grandson attends this school and we are so happy that he loves the classes and the teachers. He is much more respectful and is well mannered. We are glad my daughter chose this martial art studio. read more