Fair warning, I have not attended SKMA since approximately 2015-2016 timeframe, but I highly doubt…read moreanything I'm about to say has changed. I started with SKMA back when it all began as a side hustle for Mr. Cowell as he was (I believe) a student at SDSU. In fact, we originally were using a church for class prior to SKMA moving into their current locations. I trained underneath Brian Cowell for approximately 7-8 years. There are no better boxing coaches or applied martial arts coaches, than Mr. Cowell himself. I can firmly attest to that having now lived all across the world and having avidly boxed in a few other locations inside this country and out. Mr. Cowell and his staff have a very solid history of being overtly friendly, extremely experienced, very diligent and very dedicated to Martial Arts as both a training regime and as a lifestyle. Martial Arts is not only a great means to get into shape, but when applied more mentally it creates a mindset which few hurdles in this world can stop. Every aspect of my life, and the quality of person I am today, is based in the foundation that SwiftKick Martial Arts, and Brian Cowell himself, instilled in me through years of training approaching a decade ago. If that is not a testament to a very worth wild investment, I don't believe I know what is. In terms of Martial Arts training and capability. Due my job, which works in the Anti Terrorism field, there have been more occasions than I have fingers and toes where I have had to rely on the techniques and skills I acquired through years of training from SKMA. It just works. Hopefully there is never a time to need to resort to violence. BUT.. if there is ever a time where you must, for the purpose of self defense, there is no greater means to prepare yourself.

We did not join this studio/ gym but I do want to commend the introduction and communication when…read moregoing through the trial process. I originally identified this studio through a social media ad and then saw their videos, fbook, instagram, etc. I submitted the inquiry online and received prompt, courteous and clear communications from Sarah, New Members Coordinator, Lead Instructor, Carlsbad. We didn't have the pleasure of meeting Sarah in person but I appreciated her quick responses and ease to schedule our first introduction to the studio. Within a week, we had the opportunity to come by for a Saturday trial class at the Rancho Bernardo location. There are two studios: Rancho Bernardo and Carlsbad. The Rancho Bernardo one is near the fire house/ Webb Park (heading toward the library) and conveniently located in a shopping plaza. Our kiddos were in the 4-6 age range and they have no martial arts training or background (besides watching ninjago and thinking ninjas are super cool). They had a blast in class. Coach Chandler (?) was supported by some older volunteer students and other coaches. I was impressed with the teacher to student ratio, cleanliness of the studio, and the firm but loving direction provided. For example, I very much liked that the lead coach explained clearly to the young kids that screaming is not acceptable when saying "Yes Coach!" The instruction was easy to understand for the young kiddos. And he meant what he said. When one kid blatantly stepped out of line (class clown of the hour), Coach Chandler firmly and politely had the kid sit out the fun activity and then took the time to speak with the kid one-on-one and explain what the kid had done wrong. It was very impressive and well executed. We aren't familiar with martial arts in general but they explained they are a type of martial arts that is not form based (like Tae Kwon Do). They lean on many of the similar concepts but it's more defense instruction (how to actually execute a kick or punch properly so that a child can learn to protect themselves). I thought that was interesting to learn. The backbone to their program is the mindset they want to cultivate with young kids. They have a very well thought out program and in fact the first paper they gave us states: "We begin the Martial Art training journey not with punches and kicks, but with central lessons called Tenets." I REALLY liked this concept. They integrate parents into the learning process and help set attainable and age appropriate goals. Very well thought out program. Great leaders. Fun kids and coaches.. the kids loved it. We didn't participate this round just due to scheduling conflicts.. but do VERY MUCH recommend checking them out and scheduling a trial. One thing is to understand/discuss prior to your trial is the investment (they do offer a substantial discount for signing up same day as your trial) and the schedule. We may find ourselves back to join in the Spring but I did want to applaud the business. Girls and boys alike would excel in a studio like this.

We cannot recommend Coach Yuki at Seven Spears Dojo enough. What started as a place for our kids to…read morelearn Judo has turned into a true community for our entire family. She offers fantastic classes for both youth and adults, which makes it such a unique environment where everyone can grow together. ​Coach Yuki's impact goes far beyond the mat; she has a way of bringing families together, from training sessions to group camping trips. She has truly become like family to us. If you are looking for a dojo in Poway that values character, connection, and top-tier instruction, Coach Yuki is the best there is.

We put our son in Seven Spears Jui Jitsu just over 2 years ago and he absolutely loves it…read more The owner Stephanie is awesome. All the instructors are world class. It's the only studio where the instructors give very individual attention to each child. He has made a lot of friends there and it feels like an extended family. Highly recommend.

Our daughter has been part of this gym family for over 6 years, and we couldn't be happier. The…read morecoaches are incredible -their talent, dedication and genuine care are unmatched. They've helped our daughter grow in confidence, discipline, and respect. We absolutely love 1802 and we are so grateful for everything they've done.

My daughter has been doing jiu jitsu for about a year now. We're seeing tremendous growth in her…read moreskills and confidence. We absolutely love the professors and coaches at 1802. They truly care about the kids and foster a great learning environment. As others have said, there is a warm welcoming vibe and a strong sense of community.

I highly recommend Poway Bjj it is a very good school to learn jiujitsu and has an amazing kids…read moreprogram as well it's an awesome place to bring your kids to learn discipline and hard work. Safe clean environment with good instruction. If you are in Poway I highly recommend Poway Bjj

Long story short, I signed my kids up for a trial class and the instructor was very rude and…read morecondescending. I'm not sure if that time was just for trials because there was only 1 other kid there. He talked down to the kids and refused to teach them if they were not doing it the EXACT way he was. He kept looking at me and saying see? See? See what I mean? NO SIR! I do not see what you're saying. My kid is doing as you asked! My kid wanted to take a break and he goes yeah go sit out. When my son was ready to come back, he said no he can't participate anymore. He said this is why I don't teach anyone under 5 because they don't know how to listen. Excuse me? MEN still don't know how to listen, so maybe they shouldn't be allowed to do anything either?!?! I have never encountered an instructor for little kids that was that impatient. What a total waste of my time.

Aftermath is such an amazing environment. Jason and Ivonne are very welcoming and have built a…read morebeautiful community. My kids x train here and couldn't be luckier! They look forward and beg to go to class. Professor Jason is the best kids coach you could ask for! He is precise and hands on. A true natural with kids and adults alike. Gifted beyond measure! Thank you Aftermath for being our second jiu jitsu home!!!

Professor Jason Cook teaches the art of Jiu Jitsu amazingly! He structures the classes very well…read morewith discipline, physical activity, learning and growth. He has the ability to push the kids to their full potential by challenging them in many ways. He has classes for the whole family to grow from. If you live in the Poway or surrounding areas my advice is to come check out this gym and learn BJJ's art and self defense mechanisms from one of the best Professors out there! Thank you for everything Professor Jason!

Outstanding self defense training for all ages. I can only speak to the youth training classes…read morebecause we enrolled our daughter for a piece of mind. Searched far and wide for various types of martial arts, Krav Maga was the most appealing as it employs brutal & practical techniques for self defense. These days, with insecure bullies growing among our population, the need for kids knowledge of self defense is critical. We've been with Mr. Drew 12 months now and impressed with the practical self defense techniques. Our young daughters confidence level soared, and she discovered her inner strength. The youth class is growing, but each student gets a good deal of attention. Friendly staff and diverse course offerings. I intend to enroll in the adult courses in the near future as all the staff and students are friendly; no one brings their ego to class, everyone is there for the common goal of learning. The instruction is fun for the students the instructor (Mr. Drew) has high expectations, and our daughter looks forward to each course. This isn't a place to bring your child for discipline, they must possess basic maturity since the class moves quickly to simulate real time attacks. We intend to enroll our son as soon as he's older. Last mention, we met kids who attend the same school just by chance, glad to see parents are being proactive.

Highly recommend. If you can - take private lessons with Drew. Very knowledgeable, experienced and…read morecaring instructor. I looked at several KM schools and chose WEKM mostly based on a short conversation with Drew and the fact that i can always walk away if i don't like it). After the very first training it was obvious that he knows what he is doing. He constantly challenges the student (me) and examines physical and mental abilities to customize program. Not that i always like it (could barely walk for couple days after working the ground) but that what it takes to get the results). Overall - great instructor! Btw, Lisa (takes care of scheduling etc.) is super responsive and answers texts right away, unless she has her MMS turned off , but it was only once. Thank you for a great experience and looking forward to get to P5 with you!

Sensei Steve is wonderful. I have done karate with his dojo since I was 4 years old and am still…read moretraining with him as an adult. As a kid it taught me discipline, focus and respect for others. Steve leads by example by always being very respectful, knowledgeable and humble with his students and members of the community. Focusing on accurate execution of technique is something I prioritize as well as being able to defend myself in a practical situation in the real world. If you are interested in a defensive style of martial arts that you can practice in a safe and comfortable environment, give it a try. SERIOUSLY. You won't regret it.

Prior to coming to the RB Karate Center, I had several years of karate training at other places…read more I've only been training with Sensei Steve for a relatively short time compared to many of the other students who have been with him for years (which should tell you something). Sensei Steve is a great instructor who takes the time to explain techniques and provide guidance to young and old. He is patient and knowledgeable and always approachable. This kind of teacher attracts a certain kind of student and the other members are also very friendly and helpful. If you'e looking to learn karate, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better place than RB Karate Center.

I have been training with Meagan for 6 weeks now. She's very personable and very knowledgeable …read more After 6 weeks I am pleased with my progress and feel assured that with her continued training and encouragement I would continue getting good results and attain my goal." If you train with Meagan, keep an open mind and a positive attitude and you will definitely make your goals.

Meagan is AMAZING! I am 56 years old and was a Division 1 athlete back in the day. I was out of…read moreshape and wanted to make my way to proper health. I started working with Meagan back in July and I was pleasantly surprised how much fun she made my workout program. She tailor made a program that was right for me. She asked every step of the way how I was feeling and what I enjoyed doing. She increased my program only when I was ready for it. She added my favorite music to my workouts which made working out that much more fun. It's been a long time since my body was beach ready but I know this year is the year it will be. Young or old, Meagan can help you achieve fitness goals. She's the best - one in a million!