We've been coming to North Bay Jujitsu for almost a year now, and we couldn't be happier with our…read moreexperience. Our son has been training with Coach Paolo since the beginning, and we truly appreciate his coaching style. He is firm yet kind, patient yet structured. I find it to be a perfect balance between discipline and fun, while creating a positive environment where kids can thrive and grow in both skill and confidence. More recently, Coach Sonia began assisting with our son's Monday class, and she has been a fantastic addition.

I joined North Bay Jiu Jitsu with prior experience in the sport, and initially, I was excited to be…read morea part of the community. The people were welcoming, supportive, and the atmosphere was friendly. The art of jiu jitsu is something I have always loved, as it teaches patience, respect, and self-defense. However, my experience at North Bay Jiu Jitsu was marred by a recurring issue that eventually led to my decision to cancel my membership. After about two months of training, I started getting sick almost like clockwork. Every two to three weeks, I would come down with a bad cold or a similar illness. Given that I was working from home and rarely going out, I began to suspect the source might be related to my jiu jitsu classes. I tried immunity boosters, vitamins, and other supplements, but nothing seemed to help. After my third bout of illness, I decided to take a closer look at the cleaning practices at the gym. I arrived early one day and observed what happened between classes. After a kids' class had finished, I saw one of the instructors take a large dust mop (the kind you might see in a grocery store) and quickly drag it across the mats. No disinfectant was sprayed, and the mop head wasn't changed. It was a brief and superficial cleaning process, to say the least. This was concerning because the mats, where we were constantly in close contact with each other's sweat and bacteria, were clearly not being properly sanitized. It suddenly made sense why I was getting sick so frequently. I decided to cancel my membership shortly after that incident. When I explained that my frequent illnesses were the reason for canceling, the response I received was polite but did not address the issue I raised-- there was no real acknowledgment or inquiry into the cleanliness practices or my health concerns. Since switching to a new gym, I have remained in good health. I'm writing this review to bring attention to an important issue that I believe needs to be addressed. The art of jiu jitsu is wonderful, and the community at North Bay Jiu Jitsu is full of kind and supportive people. However, cleanliness is crucial in a sport that involves such close contact. Gym owners and instructors have a responsibility to prioritize the health and safety of their members, and that includes maintaining proper hygiene practices. For anyone considering joining, I hope this serves as a helpful forewarning. Make sure the facilities you train in are prioritizing health and cleanliness, especially in such a physically intimate sport.

I'm over 40 and was looking for a place where I could train often, push myself, and still stay…read moresafe. Black Sheep Jiu Jitsu has been exactly that. The teaching is super high level, but the vibe on the mat is welcoming and safe enough that I'm able to roll 6-7 days a week. There are tons of black belts and brown belts here--Levon, Derek, Alex, Evan--who make every round tough but also take the time to help you get better while you roll. Coach Wolf is amazing with both technique and rolling, and Cole is awesome with the no-gi classes. Big shoutout as well to the morning crew--Noah, Nico, and Tyler--who make early training something to actually look forward to. This place is packed with knowledge, great people, and positive energy. If you're looking for a spot to improve and have fun on the mats--whether you're young, competitive, or just trying to stay sharp past 40--Black Sheep Jiu Jitsu is the gym

been training here for almost a year and my review would be five stars if not for the insane…read morehygiene issues. PLEASE for the health and safety of your students disinfect the mats between each class. Or at the very least east wipe them down so they're not drenched in others sweat when people step on... Staph infections, MRSA, and ringworm are very real things.

My son has been coming here for a few years. I can't say enough good things about Mike, Karen and…read moretheir staff. It is a clean dojo, with a warm environment. It is obvious they know what they are doing, building the intensity as the kids show progress. While the physical part is great, and I have seen grows in my kid's abilities, the life lessons are where they have this place dialed. Little nuggets of wisdom the teachers sprinkle, encouraging the students. Also they have a very substantial teen cohort which tells me they have the right formula.

Absolutely wonderful martial arts studio, with the best sensei and staff. Physical and mental…read moreintelligence training with a load of fun on top. 100% would recommend!

Amazing spot! My family has been very happy with the discipline, self-defense, and tradition held…read moreby White Tiger. A gem in our community for so many decades!

When I found that they taught Tai Chi in Novato I was excited. Have been to 3 classes so far and am…read moreenjoying it very much! Many of the people in the class have been going for many years, which is a great sign!

My kids and I have been going to The Dojo for over a year now and have all benefited a lot from it…read more Sifu Phil is the real deal, having studied and taught several martial arts for decades, and has incredibly deep knowledge to pull from. He's also a great teacher for people of all ages and levels. My kids still refer to what they are learning as "karate" but are really learning a variety of American Kenpo, informed by Sifu Phil's other experience with boxing, wrestling, jiu jitsu, and more, striking a balance between traditional and practical. Many of the younger kids' classes are taught by Mr. Noah and Mr. Henry, who both have their own teaching styles but who all the kids love. They are both black belts who have been with The Dojo for a long time. Don't expect to get a black belt in a year or two! What I learn in the Monday and Wednesday (as of this writing) adult Tactical Kickboxing classes is a mixture of open-hand techniques and Western kickboxing. We spar--safely and with control--most nights to build up experience and understand how things really work. No hot dogs or tough guys with something to prove tolerated. Sifus Phil and Rachelle also encourage youth development through The Dojo's junior instructor program that allows kids of the right age, level and temperament start guiding other kids. The program has produced some really remarkable kids. The black belts act appropriately for their rank--it's not a badge, it's a responsibility. Finally, on a practical note, The Dojo is kept very clean! Hopefully this is helpful. I highly recommend The Dojo.

I haven't written a yelp review in a very long time, but i had the best birthday party experience…read moreat the Dojo I had to come out of retirement. Last weekend my son had his 9th birthday party at The Dojo and it was so easy and great from start to finish. They put together so many age appropriate, fun courses and games. All the boys had the best time. Every parent that dropped off and picked up all commented on how great this place was. Honestly it's probably the best birthday party I've thrown and I can't take any of the credit. I'm already planning on coming back for my younger son. Thank you to The Dojo for such a wonderful experience.

Could not be more impressed! The first activity my 10 y/o son has stuck with (we've tried many he…read moredid not feel safe or comfortable with). The respect, cleanliness, discipline, and safety that is felt is truly special.

My son Jax has been taking lessons here for a few months and absolutely loves it. It's the first…read morething I've been able to get him into. He is seven years old. He looks forward to his classes, he enjoys them, and they wear him out. He even begged to go to an additional class this week on Saturday for Halloween. It's a great environment and the teachers are caring and encouraging. I'm really glad we found this place. Hope we can be a part of this for years to come.

I am writing this to share with the world my great fortune of training with Sifu Scott Jensen and…read morethe 10,000 Victories School of Martial Arts located in the heart of Marin County, CA. 10,000 Victories offers classes in the "old-school" traditional style of Northern Shaolin Kung Fu, Tai Ji Chuan, and Qi Gong. I am a Licensed Acupuncturist with a Masters in Traditional Chinese Medicine and prior to joining 10,000 Victories I studied with several great teachers of Hsing-I, Bagua, Tai Ji and Kung Fu for nearly a decade. So, I kind of know what Im talking about as you read on.... First of all, Sifu Jensen is a kind, compassionate and approachable man who has dedicated himself to these arts for the better part of his life. Having studied with several great masters himself, he was encouraged to share his teachings to benefit others and help preserve and perpetuate these ancient arts. He takes this role very serious and will openly share his knowledge and help train you to be the best you can be! He works with all ages and skill levels and does an excellent job of giving everyone the individual attention they deserve. With such a wealth of knowledge, Sifu Jensen gives you all you can handle and more. Northern Shaolin Kung Fu is very athletic with deep stances, high kicks, and fast strikes. It requires that the student be strong and flexible with great balance and stability. Our classes begin with an intense workout that then flows into sparring practice to help improve your timing and confidence. Next we work on (empty) hand forms that teach martial technique while continuing to enhance the students physical fitness and mental acuity. Lastly, we learn weapon forms that include swords, sabers, staffs, spears, daggers and even the cane and fan! I also study Tai Ji Chuan with Sifu Jensen which is an effective martial art and a great way to help center the mind and body while promoting the healthy flow of Qi or energy. It along with Qi Gong are excellent for those who are not physically able to join the Kung Fu class, as well as individuals looking to combine movement with meditation. I love the combination of Kung Fu and Tai Ji and feel that it helps to complete the picture. I have personally gained so much. Physically I have never felt better. I am stronger, faster, more flexible, better balanced, and have greater endurance than ever before -- and thats saying a lot as I am a serious athlete in my own right. At the same time I feel more relaxed, confident and centered from my practice and believe it has made me a better husband, father, friend, and professional. 10,000 Victories has become my extended family and the school operates efficiently with the help of Rachel Jensens enthusiasm, determination and grace. I encourage anybody whos looking to improve their health and/or take themselves to a whole new level to check it out. Oh, did I forget to mention how much fun we have too? Dont miss out! Sincerely, -Adam Shapiro, L.Ac., MSTCM

I have studied from Sifu Jensen for nearly 20 years. I was very lucky to pick his school when I…read morefirst started. Over the years I have met with many martial artists and I can say that what he taught me was useful, effective, and correct. His knowledge and ability are first rate. This is especially important considering the sophisticated arts he teaches. The classes go from beginner friendly to as tough as you want them to be. The environment is always kept fun and friendly. Many of my fellow students have become life long friends.

Love love love this place!! My kids started karate here and I am so impressed with how Master…read moreBentley (aka Head Teacher Derek) and his teachers meet them where they are and make them better. It has been awesome!!

Taylor's is a fantastic karate school! The teachers are very supportive while still maintaining…read morehigh standards for what their students should strive to achieve. They offer a wide variety of classes for kids, teens and adults. There is also a very diverse, kind community of students and families. You couldn't choose a better place to begin or continue your martial arts training!