As a beginner in his late 50s, I was worried this would be too much of a task for me. But the…read morepeople here are super nice and understanding, my bad back notwithstanding. Sifu Tim and Sifu Wayne and everyone else made us feel welcome from the start. You can more or less learn at your own pace, and the teachers and their assistants (Andrew, Alec, Ian, etc) are all very nice folks. I and my wife are really enjoying it. We go in for something different to do, and for physical wellbeing, and we are very happy we did. The school is easy to find, right off Harford Road. Parking is easy, and the facilities are clean and first rate. We've only just started, and we are thoroughly enoying ourselves. Give it a try!

I hate to make this an issue, but the neighborhood is sketchy, and I kind of value my life and…read morelimbs -- can't punch and kick without those, you know? The sifus do make sure someone walks me to my car when my husband doesn't come to class with me, and Sifu Wayne likes to show women some self-defense moves early on. However, I get to class by myself, and because another school shares the building, I have to park farther and walk when they have class. Entry also requires a key card (which I don't have), so I've had to wait... and been approached by undesirable elements. Everything else about this place is great, if it's what you're looking for. What it's not: (1) A traditional martial arts studio with all of the formality, decorum, and strict discipline. Nobody cares if you come late, leave early, or check your phone because everybody knows everybody else has lives. There's also a lot of laughing. It may be jarring for those coming from more traditional backgrounds. (2) Large. Class size is small and varies on a daily basis (about 2-15 people). You'll get individual attention from a sifu / assistant, but there are fewer different people to practice with, and it's an adjustment if you prefer big classes. However, those who come do so because they enjoy it, and they won't let you slack. (3) Aggressive. If you mistake a lack of chest-pounding for being weak, I think you'll be missing out if you don't at least give this place a chance. (4) Cardio-intensive; I still maintain a gym membership for that reason. Instead, they work on strength, via drills of actual techniques (as opposed to push-ups and suicides, which never helped anybody in a fight). Between shoulder workouts (to maintain your guard) and chain punches (I counted 675 punches during a typical warm-up... on one side), you will get some awesome arms. Kicks, stances, and shuffles will work on your legs. Why I like it: (1) This is the 5th martial arts school I've trained with (including a very good and well-respected one), but the first to actively encourage taking notes. Whereas others focused on techniques and dominating your opponent through sheer speed and strength, this place emphasizes -- from day 1 -- the principles behind why things are the way they are. They also welcome questions, and constantly ask if you have any. Nitpick: They talk about the science of wing chun as if it's unique; I don't think it is. By definition, all martial arts were originally about physically confronting another person, and they all had to work, i.e., science. The sports emphasis of many martial arts these days often results in individuals who miss key things about self-defense, but if you find someone who knows what they're doing, you'll be fine. With that said, I think these people know what they're doing, and they make a point of communicating it. The eye training fills a gap for me that the vague "Watch your opponent" or only slightly better "Watch your opponent's shoulders" never did. They do this frequently (and actively check that you're watching what you're supposed to be watching), so a month in, I was better able to identify the strikes being thrown at me. (2) The sifus work with my husband in class, then give us exercises to practice at home since he can't come regularly. They don't withhold martial arts "secrets"; they want you to learn, and they work within your limitations. (3) The instructors push you with good humor, not by yelling or punishment. However, they want you to train safely and leave it up to you to decide if you need to sit out. They also lighten up their strikes as your body is still adapting, and you're welcome to use their arm guards. (4) Sifu Wayne fights with you at your level. He'll push you enough to expose holes in your guard or understanding so that you think about what you're doing, rather than mindlessly perform techniques. (5) I'm laughing at the review comparing this place to the United Nations. While there is more diversity here than on the street, for a while, I thought I was the first of my kind, and I have only seen 2 other women at practice. I don't mind so long as the guys use deodorant and aren't testosterone-y, but I know some women like a higher ratio of their own. I do think they try to make this a comfortable environment for girls, though. A guy checking this place out used some crass language (he called it "being blunt," but it was misogynstic). The sifu politely asked him to watch his language in mixed company. (6) Sifu Wayne and Alec also teach the kung fu club at JHU. Alec said it's a legacy from Sifu Wayne's instructor. I've met people with a lack of respect for the culture from which their martial art derives, who thought they were self-made martial artists, or were just plain arrogant, so this nod to his roots is refreshing. Students at the Harford studio are welcome here.

Inspired initially by Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, my very active 5 yr old son has been asking for…read morea long time to take a martial art. Most of the classes I found were housed in inconvenient locations with classes running right around rush hour so I kept putting it off. I just happened to be driving up York Rd. when I noticed Kanjizai Dojo and called immediately. We were offered 4 free classes to see what my son's interest level would be. From the first class he loved it! The sole reason for the this is the amazing instructor Kevin Lockett. Imagine if you will, ten to fifteen unfocused, wound-up 4 to 8 yr olds all learning at different levels. He must be the most patient man on earth. He manages to keep them focused, learning, and having fun all at the same time. My son is so proud of himself after every class. I highly recommend this martial arts school and I understand that he is just as patient and effective with adults!

I really enjoy the instruction, the engagement with my classmates, the beautiful new space, and the…read moreconvenient location with plenty of parking. If you want to practice like a samurai, come try it out!

Knowledgeable instructors with a friendly atmosphere. If you want to learn martial arts in…read moreBaltimore, this is a great place to go.

I attended my first pole class here on yesterday, and all I can say is I have found my second new…read morepoling home, and it's literally not to far from where I live, who knew. The class was pole flow and babyyyyyy when I say I was sore after class, Mynaaa was the instructor who worked the hell out of her students. The prices are reasonable especially for drop ins and open pole which is $11, the also offer 1 free class to try to see if u like it. They have gained a new student, I definitely will be going back. BTW they offer more than just pole classes, they offer martial arts ,sound bath and much more.

From the owner: Equilibrium Baltimore is more than a fitness studio — it’s a community space where movement,…read moreartistry, and healing come together. What makes us unique is our commitment to nurturing both the physical and emotional well-being of every person who walks through our doors. Holistic Movement Experience: We offer aerial yoga, pole, lyra, mobility, self-defense, and stretch classes — not just as workouts, but as tools for confidence, creativity, and self-discovery. Inclusive & Safe Environment: Our studio is intentionally welcoming — no matter your age, body type, fitness level, or background. We create spaces where people feel seen, supported, and safe to try something new. Community at the Center: Whether it’s local collaborations, youth mentorship, wellness workshops, or arts-based events, we act as a hub for connection — not just a place to sweat. People come to us for classes, but stay because they feel like family. Creative & Immersive Experiences: From themed showcases and private parties to holiday aerial events and coworking days, we bring imagination into fitness. Every class and event is designed with detail, intention, and a little magic. Heart-Led Leadership: Equilibrium is woman-owned, community-rooted, and built with care. We prioritize authenticity, transparency, and empowerment — on and off the mat.

Guardian is a great place to learn and train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The greatest part of the Guardian…read morestory is that it's a charity that lets kids train for free. They provide the kids with everything they might need for training, including snacks for after. There's also the mentorship element to consider for the kids. The adult Jiu-Jitsu is high-level however accommodating to skill level. There are separate fundamental classes and more advanced classes. The advanced classes have a relatively high concentration of colored belts for Baltimore. So it's very well rounded skill wise. Donate to the Guardian charity!

Amazing space, and the instructors are great with our 6 yr old son. There's a good community of…read moreparents and students, we feel very lucky to be a part of it!

I've been attending for over a year now. I've never been faster, stronger, or more flexible than I…read moream now, nothing made me stick to fitness like learning martial arts has. I started in the Wushu curriculum and have also picked up Tai Chi, which has proven to be an excellent way to de-stress while also getting in a good workout and focusing the mind. This school has amazing instructors that really focus on the individual needs of the students. They really teach the culture and art of Kung Fu and foster a strong community within the school. I love the passion and dedication of everyone on staff!

This place is great. I tried a free 2 week trial a year almost 2 years ago and have been going…read moreever since. The prices are very reasonable and the instructors are amazing! They teach Kung Fu, Wu Shu and Tai Chi. The classes are taught in a friendly respectful way and the pace is nice and fast. Highly recommended for both adults and children.

Sensei Mike Veader is the man! The Veaders are old school tough guys from a rough town near…read moreBoston, MA - exactly what you want from people teaching you to fight! He'll toss you around like you're a bag of potatoes and teach you quality judo and jujitsu. I was studying here for about 9-10 months before we moved out of state but loved every moment of it. Went from white to green belt there and, at least I like to think, I was getting close to my brown belt under their judo and jujitsu (I went to class four times a week!). I moved before they added the MMA but I'm sure they've got some good guys mixing it up over there and they are definitely worth checking out if you're in MD.

From the owner: Serving Baltimore since 1987, Seigneury Dojo trains champions in the arts of Kodokan Judo,…read moreTraditional Japanese Jujitsu, MMA Training, Okinawan Shorin Ryu Karate, & Samurai Arts.