Since the late 1950's when Karl Geis opened his first dojo after studying Judo and then Aikido in Japan with some of most legendary martial artists at the world famous Kodokan, he settled in Houston to open his dojo. Tales began to spread about this sensei that could fill a bestseller. I had heard of him growing up as I practiced several other disciplines and the stories of respect by other famous martial artists about Karl were testimonials to his genius and prowess as "the real thing". It wasn't until a couple of decades later that I decided to finally go speak to the man in person. I was sold in the first 10 minutes. This was to be my new second home. That was in the early 90s. There are several others that have been here since the early 60s, still practicing. Karl's "Fugakukai" way of teaching which was unique as he felt judo had been corrupted from becoming an Olympic sport where weight classes were established and speed and strength became the order of the day. The only problem with that is that speed and strength fade away with old age. This was antithetical to the intent of the founder of the sport, Professor Kano, as his style relied strictly upon technique. A smaller man defeating a larger adversary. We still adhere to that principle in the purest sense. I'll admit, it's not for everyone. Martial artists are a mixed bag and there are some very large egos and even larger chips on shoulders. This is an oasis to me among the chest thumping dojos full of overblown hormones and superfluous deference to their teacher that requires senseless bowing and scraping. If you are looking to learn the essence of what the "art" part of the martial arts is, you will find no truer example of that definition than at Karl Geis dojo. Our brilliant senseis have taken on the mantle of our founder's genius and stay true to his lifelong dedication. Our teachers are not paid. All dues go to the dojo's maintenance itself. These guys are selfless and have been here for decades. Look us up, come visit with us and leave your ego and your preconceived notions at home. We welcome you. read more

I was a student here for 3 years before moving back to Europe. Literally the best thing about Houston. Karl Geis Ryu is a martial arts school that does away with all the macho bs and really focuses on teaching Aikido and Judo for self defense, with an unusual level of consideration of biomechanics. At the same time it does not lose the philosophical side of the martial arts. If you want to learn techniques to defend yourself in a welcoming environment and with peers genuinely interested in education this is the place to go. Note that this is not ordinary Tomiki aikido, but rather a system called kihara that Mr Geis developed and passed down to his students (a unique american variant of aikido). Absolutely worth a visit, I would suggest the Saturday class to get a taste of all 3 arts (aikido, judo, joyodo). read more

Karl Geis Ryu is an excellent school for Tomiki Aikido, Judo & Jodo. Karl Geis had an amazing pedigree of training in Japan from the 50's & 60's. Far to much to list here. Kenji Tomiki was one of Jigoro Kano's first students of Judo. Read that again. Tomiki was one of the first students of Judo taught by its founder. Tomiki also studied Aikido from its founder. Karl knew Tomiki personally and collaborated with him over the years to refine his Aikido in the United States. The instructors at Karl Geis Ryu are direct students of Geis and studied with him for 30+ years. The level of training & experience is unmatched by any other martial arts school in Houston or Texas for the matter. These guys are the real deal with a great training facility and they are all about the safe practice of their martial arts. read more

I've trained in many different martial arts systems from karate to BJJ. In my opinion, Judo is one of the most effective martial arts for all around self defense. Karl Geis Ryu is a non-competitive environment where the emphasis is building each other up vs more ego centric schools. It is a safe and friendly environment that's excellent for young and older adults. Techniques are based off of movement and not muscular strength. So, you don't have to be an amazing athlete to be effective. Students will spend just as much time on "ground work" as they do standing. Thus, students are just as comfortable with standing techniques as they are with ground techniques . A true Houston gem! read more

This is a great Dojo with many teachers at Rokudan level and above. One membership allows you to learn Judo, Aikido and the stick technique. Every student is encouraged to learn and practice techniques above his/her level as he/she feels comfortable and has learned how to fall and row. As a senior, I often have back issues for having an office job. However, once I started Aikido, I have no more back issues!!! The teachers and students are all very friendly and are always ready to help and to explain the technique. Therefore if you are interested to learn top notch self defense and be physically active, this is a Dojo you should consider. read more

Dr. Ivan Spector carries on the traditional of legendary martial artist Karl Geiss Judo and David Witt does the same for Aikido. The mat is huge and very well constructed to absorb falls while providing a stable surface. Changing rooms and bathroom clean and easily accessible. Nobody is going to project their ego onto you and hurt a lower belt, they are getting you ready to defend yourself "off the mat." There are young and old students, men and women student, and it is a healthy environment to have fun and grapple or throw. read more

Instructors are very knowledgeable and experienced most of them have been taking anywhere from 25 to 50 years. they train your subconscious to be ready for any encounter and react fluidly to any encounter. No one is aggressive in class, and they are very careful To make sure everyone stays healthy. There is no actual sparring in class they are training your subconscious mind. The price is very reasonable at $150 per month and you can go to three aikido class is three Judo and Class on Saturday morning fighting with sticks read more

I have been training Akido and Jodo for several years. There is a very high level of expertise at this dojo and I have grown to love and appreciate the attention to detail as well as the camaraderie. The dojo is a very safe place to practice. They have large a sprung mat with climate control. There is a lot of attention to safety. The Legacy of Karl Geis is preserved here and taught very well. read more

Find the highest quality teachers here. They teach the power of judo by describing the math and science behind the moves. Discover the secrets of this art with some top notch instructors that are the smartest of the bunch. That review by Norman, don't listen to him, he's a past member, and a communist, he's got issues with never washing his gi. I'm glad he's gone. read more

The best place to learn and train for Judo and Aikido. The instructors are experienced, friendly and comraderie is great! Come feel the energy and Buzz. See you on the mat read more

I have a family member who has gone there for years and greatly enjoys what that have to offer. They have helped him develop great skills and work ethics, read more

This is the best martial arts school in the city. Great instruction in an extremely safe environment!

Best dojo in Houston! Great instruction and very street effective judo and aikido. Come try it out.