I am delighted! I brought my son to training in Tenri Judo. Such training must be in every judo…read moreclub! The training lasted one hour and thirty minutes. That's how long a quality workout should last h . Most trainings in LA limit workouts to one hour. And we know that's not enough. But unfortunately, the quality of training in many clubs is lacking. In Tenri Judo they teach traditional Judo as it should be. I admire the Senseis of this place. As it seemed to me, this dojo is not for beginners. You need to have at least basic judo skills. I brought my son few days before the competition to gain some experience. We spent an hour on the way in traffic, because we live far from this place. Well, it's worth it Thank you Senseis

* Wide variety of judoka to train with. * High-level players…read moretend to train here (sometimes Olympians/national level players will show up). * Class consists of warming up, uchi-komi, newaza randori, and tachi-waza randori. * Chance to train with the head sensei is reason enough to drop by. * Only $5 per class for guests to train.

Good judo & great atmosphere. There is high level advanced training offered for more experienced…read morejudoka, but their beginners program might be the best in Southern California. Highly attentive instructors and detailed instruction for practitioners of all levels. Highly recommended!

Hollywood Judo Dojo - An Adult Perspective- I want to be…read moreclear about my background going in. I currently have around 15ish hours of hands-on class time at Hollywood Judo Dojo. I started over the age of 25, in decent shape, with prior experience in informal grappling and informal striking from my Navy years and training with my brothers (one of whom served in the Army). While none of that was formal or belt-based, it gave me a solid understanding of physical contact, balance, and pressure before stepping into a formal structured judo environment. Before committing here, I tried several other dojos. They were solid, but most were clearly geared toward kids, and adult classes often lacked enough adult bodies to train consistently. That's where Hollywood Judo Dojo immediately stood out--there's a strong adult training presence, with partners of different sizes, strengths, and experience levels, which makes training far more effective. Another thing I appreciate is the variety in adult classes. Different instructors emphasize different aspects of judo--some classes are more free-flowing, others slow things down to explain risk and injury mechanics, and others lean toward competition. Rather than feeling disjointed, it creates a well-rounded training experience. The other black and brown belts outside main instructors are respectful and generous with their knowledge. Across all classes, safety and partner care are consistently emphasized. That culture matters, especially for adults starting later who want to train consistently and longterm without unnecessary injuries. Instruction also focuses on fundamentals first, with no rush to flashy techniques. You're taught how and why things work before moving on. Progress here feels earned. Belts are not handed out casually, and the standard is clear. The overall vibe is chill, professional, and respectful, which says a lot about the dojo's culture. From a practical standpoint, the price is excellent compared to other martial arts schools (200$+ average ) especially considering the quality of instruction, training partners, and facility. The dojo is also conveniently located near the metro train, which is a nice bonus. Even with limited mat time so far, I've learned a lot. For adults--especially those starting later or coming from informal/mixed striking or grappling backgrounds--Hollywood Judo Dojo is a great , legitimate place to train.

I trained with Lia Sensei in Santa Barbara for about 4 years before I moved to Los Angeles. After…read moremoving, I had a tough time finding a teacher and a dojo that matched the energy, fun, and structure of Lia Sensei's dojo and so, one day I called her and said "You need to start a dojo in LA." After years of searching, we finally found our current home at the Hollywood Japanese Cultural Institute. We already have a great kids class and a growing adults class. I'm not in anyway an "employee" of this dojo, just a student that helped bring it together. I did it because Lia Sensei changed my life. Her teachings in Aikido have had a profound impact on who I am today and continue to shape me everyday into a stronger, more grounded person. Lia Sensei is truly a one of a kind teacher. She is passionate to no end about aikido which comes through in her thoughtful though very Japanese style of teaching. Her aikido classes always leave me drenched in sweat by the end which I have almost never experienced anywhere else (except Japan!) They are intense, dynamic, and feel the way a martial art should truly feel, like a sacred practice.

I've been taking classes with Sensei Lia Suzuki since the beginning of this year and have been…read moreextremely happy with her style, commitment and passion for Aikido. I chose to take up Aikido as I wanted to study a martial art for the spiritual and physical practice, learn how to defend myself and build my self defence confidence and also because as a trainer of communication I use verbal Aikido in my daily life (align and redirect). I consistently find the tips and ideas I learn in my physical class practical in improving my adult training skills verbally. Sensei Suzuki teaches through practical hands on activity which is a change from the mental practice I use in so many other parts of my life and her experience in Japan and teaching across the globe is fantastic. She is always learning herself and we regularly discover new techniques she has picked up with her practice with other great teachers to fine tune our skills. In addition, having a female teacher who is not physically big really shows how Aikido can be used by anybody against aggressors of any size. I don't do a lot of other exercise and although I have sweat a lot by the end of a class, I don't feel that the training is too physically demanding so new students should rest assured that it won't be like starting a weights regime in the gym where I know I end up unable to walk or lift my arms if I haven't practised for a while. Even when I'm not feeling in the mood at the beginning of the class I end feeling like I've had a good workout and that I've improved and fine tuned my skills. If you're reading this, I highly recommend you commit to trying it for 3 months as that will give you a good understanding of whether it is right for you and you'll also learn some great skills to build your confidence whilst having fun and getting a workout. In addition, we all catch up once per month for a social gathering (sometimes in a restaurant and sometimes as a pot luck at the dojo) and this has created friendships and a community feel.

Really, really disorganized, unfriendly place. They charge you for an extra month after you cancel…read moreyour membership. Stay. Away. And note the way Pietro responded to another review. It displays the tone that was used frequently with me when I didn't understand the way something worked and had questions: "I'm sorry that the super simple cancellation process was too much for you to comprehend, or that someone needed to hold your hand through the process. Our process is neither non-transparent nor arduous; you simply did not follow the steps that any competent 8 year old could follow." Says it all.

Coach Pietro--I read your response to this post and email from staff stating that no emails or…read moremessages received. I have the messages. I have the requests. I did complete the request to terminate my membership--twice, one month apart. I never go on the internet to post this kind of stuff, but I'm sure you can imagine that after trying to contact the gym/staff for help, several times through several means without any response, I sought other ways to get help. It was through this review and my second request to terminate via the website that my request finally went through. Funny how that works. I made a comment on your business practices. I'd like to point out that you attacked my intelligence. Have a nice day.

Aikido is a journey. Really, that goes for any martial art, but I feel it particularly pertains…read morehere. It can be slow at times... it can be frustrating at times. It can also be incredibly exciting, enlightening, and rewarding (all on the same day). As such, nothing comes quickly, and persistence is key. With all that being the case, there is nothing better for a practitioner of an art like aikido to have than a dojo which allows for any and all, their quirks, their habits, their abilities, does not discriminate nor try to over commit you or sell you things, and asks only that you respect your peers, and train hard. You get what you put in. The black belt instructors (and there are a lot of them! - a good sign for a dojo) are very warm, and each has their own particular teaching style, while maintaining a common curriculum. This variety of instructors and classes is exemplified by my favorite class, the open weapons class, where we've been learning about how to use the Jo staff, a favorite of mine. There are classes every day - usually 2-3 - so you're bound to find something to fit your schedule. Ito Sensei and other black belts are respectful of new comers and all desire to both honor the history of the Dojo while at the same time embrace new ways of learning and teaching. Finally, one of the best parts about ACLA as a dojo is that the community is strong, with various potluck events, charity and community service outings, dojo meetings, etc., which all help you really feel a part of a community. I hope to meet you on the mat. Aikido is waiting for you!

I started training at ACLA earlier in February of this year and as someone who already has a…read moremartial arts background (Shotokan Karate, 2nd degree black belt), I have to say I am incredibly satisfied by experience here. This is a traditional school in the sense of training, but the atmosphere feels relaxed and welcoming. ALL of the instructors are extremely skilled, knowledgeable, and are excellent TEACHERS. Classes here are accommodating to people of all levels. If you're interested at all, you should definitely come in and watch a class. Someone will be more than happy answer any and all of your questions!

The most rude person I've ever spoken to over a phone call, I asked couple questions about…read moreTaekwondo and this guy had no idea what he is even teaching, he flipped like a pancake and got really furious at me. Please do your kids a favor and don't let them be anywhere close to a psychopath like him. There are bunch of other great schools in the area where they can learn legit Taekwondo in a much safer environment.

I have to drive several miles to bring my 3 year old here. We drive past about 5 other Dojos to get…read moreto this one. I brought her in for the introductory special and now we're stuck. It's too good to take a chance on the others. Her instructor Tristan La Favor is the truth. He leads the kids with confidence but leaves his ego out of it. If your kid is wimpy, shy, out of shape, or wild and over confident (like mine), just make the commitment, spend the money, and take the time to bring your kid in as many times a week as you can. It will make a difference. In just two moths I have seen a huge difference in my girl. I asked a few questions on facebook messages before going for the first time and got some pretty quick & earnest responses, so maybe start there. The owner is a bit intense so if he ever starts yelling at you for some strange reason don't take it too seriously or personally, he will forget about it the next day. The studio is clean, spacious and street parking is decent, or with validation parking in the lot is 2 bucks. We're happy we gave this place a shot.

Sadly... Master Choi has passed away many years ago. I came here as a punk in high school thinking…read moreI could be Jet Li overnight. Master Choi's history is a very interesting one. First, his master was a bread peddler in Korea. One day, he used Shaolin Long Fist, but in a soft demeanor, as he stopped attackers from trying to rob him. Afterwards, my Master, Master Choi chased him and begged him to be his student. He said no, of course. Master Choi had to punch telephone books over and over until each book disintegrated. He was then accepted as one of his students. Master Choi came to LA and was a Deputy in the LA COUNTY Sheriffs. He also served in the South Korean Special forces and dearly loved American 101st and 82nd AIrborne soldiers. He taught students without discrimination of any kind even though society did it to him. His top students were also my teachers. Yorgos and Roshawn. Master Choi did countless demonstrations throughout his life and he was famous for breaking ANY STONE you brought to him. No tricks, no special angles. YOU bring the rock and he smashed it. He passed away from health complications. During his final years, I helped teach kids Kung Fu there. I wasn't his best student, but teaching Kung Fu was my passion when Master Choi was alive. Though this school no longer exists... it touched thousands of students who trained under Master Choi.

I am David Merrick who studoed under Master Choi in the 90's off & on for i8 years. I earned a…read moreBrown sash! I gound out last year he passed Roshan was a teacher then. She was a 2nd degree. I lived the traininf and still practicebit from time time. I still remember most of the forms. He taught the 5 Methods ofbkung fu. How valuable. Iam sorry aboutbhis passing & uploaded a memorial drawing of him tobgoogle+ to honor him. His dchool was open Mondsy thru Friday. He would always tell me to practice. He taught the 8-step of kung fu &35, which is wheel barrel fist. Hevws a good man , a diligent master + I remember his grey uniform. I was impressed by him & kung fu. I rember his bamboo stick. Aand he taught me bo staff. I still do the sraff practice. He tsyght me breathing trchniwues + we did about a hundred kicks a day. Yhe forms are beautiful bto look at. And the forms are stylish. Also kung fu helped twuce agaibst bullies! I lived the testing beacauae tge colir sashes were given on the same night right sfter thw test. I led the warm ups sometimes. I miss him& I am sure I woukd gacevearned the coveted bkack sash. Becayse I only needed toblearn 2 morevforms.They were little Tiger and Black Tiger! God bless himways. He was a great benevolent master. He had me veatva mokwy board. Master Choi akso ciuld break small rounded or flat stones. Wuth 1 or 2 chops he would do it. He taught me Tigervclaw trchniwues. He taught me snake techniques! He said my dorm was goog. God bless hus siul. Wiyh Master Choi taught me confidences in myself and thevart. Yes I miss him. And Inwcherish his memory. I will always cherish his memety.i honor him .God bless him and God bless whomever rwads this review.

In 2009, I had the privilege to briefly study under Gary Lam when his school was still in the…read morebackyard. While I could only attend 1x/week for about 4 months, it profoundly impacted my understanding of Wing Chun and its application. From the first day, it was clear that this was in the Wong Shun Leung lineage. Sifu Gary has made it his own system, and there isn't any contradiction in the learning or application process. There is no belt system, but the system is clearly laid out and understandable. Progress was skill-based, not by frequency of attendance or amount of money paid. Your proficiency was determined when Sifu would observe you & tell you when it was time to learn the next thing. You also had the chance to learn from senior students, and everyone I worked with was generous in sharing knowledge. Gathering for Sifu's demonstrations & explanations was always so helpful to learn by observation and experience. Though it has been ages since I've attended as a student, I am greatly indebted to Sifu & his son for taking me in for the brief period I learned from the GLWC system. Excellent Wing Chun school & highly recommended! PS: Still waiting for a GLWC branch to open here in San Diego!

Went there for about 8 months around 2013... Phenomenol training. Too far for my commute however…read more Recommend headquarters location over satellite location.