I have known the Chief Instructor at this dojo for 35 years; I can say unequivocally that he is one…read moreof the most qualified martial artist I know. He also is one of only a handful of people that teach traditional Japanese swordsmanship using live blades for test cutting. The dojo also boasts several other styles being taught including: Jujitsu, Aikido, Ba Gua and Wing Chun (my class btw). If you want to train at a school that is devoted to traditional martial arts in an environment that is friendly and supportive, look no further.

Went by there a few years ago to look at a class. The guy who teaches Wing Chun is a jerk and…read moreunprofessional.

I will start off by saying this is the most practical application of self-defense I have seen…read more Anyone can learn this discipline. It's pure self-defense and the training is based on balance and using your natural physiological and psychological response to fear and stress. Through training, students learn to use these responses in a powerful and explosive way. While it can appear rough, and frankly, it is in many ways, the staff and students alike are mindful and caring in the way they implement the tools they're teaching/learning. I sought out a practical school for my son to learn to defend himself and this is a perfect fit for him. Knowing that my son is entering his teenage years with the correct mindset about the reality of violence is priceless. The school is kid-friendly, but it's best if your child is able to focus for over an hour for it to really be a benefit for all. I'm a big fan of International Academy of Wing Chun!

My friend persuaded me to try it out, so I emailed them and they were really nice about letting us…read moredrop by and take a free class. It's very meditative, and they really care about being in the proper form and stance. Everyone there is really dedicated to the martial art, and believe in its benefits. Personally it wasn't my thing so I didn't go back (I was expecting more cardio/activity, and there IS a lot of standing around learning the form and all that). That being said, if you DO like it I think it's a small, intimate atmosphere that will provide lots of one-on-one help. If you're considering it, I would drop by and give it a try.

I've been training at Alameda Akikai with Mitsu Sensei for three years alongside my oldest child…read more(12) who has been there for 2+ years and his sibling (10) who has been there for about 1+ years. Bottom line: I love it. For me, Aikido is both an escape and an exercise. The art is challenging, physically and mentally and requires one be alert, agile, strong and flexible. I try and practice several times a week which is very easy to do here. The other people on the mat are engaged and kind and look out for one another. There are also a variety of classes to choose from (for adults there are 530 am, 9am and 6pm classes, and one on Saturday, and for kids there are many options to choose from after school and also on Saturdays). Speaking of kids! Training with my own kids is a real joy. It's a fun activity we can do together and Aikido exemplifies, and teaches, important values about capability, respect, effort and diligence. 10/10 can recommend!

I've been training at Alameda Aikikai for just about two years, and it's been incredible! Mitsu…read moreSensei is extremely clean with his instructions, makes sure the students are being personally challenged without being pushed too far, and utilizes his background in physical therapy to make sure everyone is practicing safely. The community is incredible with a strong familial, but welcoming atmosphere. I absolutely love being a part of this dojo and look forward to all of y'all being a part of it as well!

As someone who studied karate in Japan for several years, I appreciate traditional martial arts…read moreinstruction. Stiles Sensei is a traditional Shotokan master. His classes are a good workout, fun and his depth of understanding of techniques and ability to communicate is unsurpassed in my experience. He teaches adults only. Join us.

If you are looking for a Shotokan Karate dojo in the Bay Area, you will be well served to train at…read morethe JKA of San Francisco. T.J Stiles is a truly excellent instructor - a fifth degree black belt, with over 20 years of teaching experience, he comes directly from the Mori Sensei lineage of JKA and practices the traditional Japanese Karate Do. He is very technical and explains technique, body movement and application extremely well and really helps you identify and overcome your weaknesses and bad habits. I have tried other dojos in SF, but this has been the best by far in terms of serious practice, proper technique and true karate spirit! I highly recommend.

Pease note the school has moved - for more information, contact Sifu LeBlanc at gleblanc888 at…read moregmail dot com.

Direct, efficient, and simple--that is the heart of Wing Chun. It also best describes Greg…read moreLeBlanc (and what I will try to be with this review). It has been my experience with several kung fu systems, that there are a lot of people who claim to teach authentic kung fu, but many, perhaps most, fail. They simply don't have the skills, communication, and authenticity to do so, Greg LeBlanc has all of these. Wing Chun, when done right, is not flashy, but is highly effective and extremely powerful. LeBlanc Wing Chun Kwoon has a very inviting atmosphere, utilizing a "Hong Kong" style of teaching. This allows each individual direct attention, and individualized rate of growth. There are no fancy uniforms, titles, no long contracts, and the facilities are clean and practical. Greg LeBlanc is always open to answering questions, and encourages students to "Make Wing Chun work for you, not for you to work for Wing Chun".

I've been practicing Kempo since 2003 and I absolutely love it, as is evidenced by the fact that I…read morecontinued to practice it after moving back to the Bay Area from San Diego (where I was introduced to Kempo). As a martial art that focuses on balance and natural body movement, it's excellent for anyone and everyone, regardless of size, shape, or physical ability. The Peninsula Dojo is headed by Karahashi Sensei, who is truly terrific as a teacher and just a generally great guy. The dojo is small, so you can get a lot of personal attention, regardless of what level you come in at. You can also come by and check out a practice prior to joining: no pressure! I'm really glad I found them.

(Disclaimer: I'm biased because my spouse is the branch master)…read more Shorinji Kempo is really a great martial art. They are not run for profit (anywhere, worldwide), and their practices are accommodating for all ages and fitness levels. It is Japan's most popular (most widely practiced) martial art. Shorinji Kempo is a self-defense oriented MA, with emphasis on cooperation and mutual respect. It encourages discussion on the philosophy behind the principles, as well as individual persistence. Techniques include the basic punches/kicks/blocks, but also include a focus on tumbling, grappling, and pair forms.

The largest space I've ever trained in for capoeira. Anthony is a strict but excellent teacher. Be…read moreprepared to be drenched after class. The space and people are beautiful. And there's also a ton of Afro dance and drumming classes inside the building. It always feels like a community here.

My son started training with Coach Anthony when he was 8 years old and is still there, 3 years…read morelater, regularly attending class 2/x week. He's both physically and mentally stronger due to Anthony's focused training and commitment to the kids. Anthony brings so much to his teaching - he understands how to push our towards his potential in every class - without loses his engagement. Training is tough! But our son loves the exercise and is deeply connected to the Anthony and other great students in the community Anthony as created.

I've been training here for about a year and a half, and by now it's hard to imagine it not being…read morepart of my week (which kinda sucks because after leaving my old job in the East Bay I'm gonna have a much longer trip to get to the school, lol). I had tried a few different martial arts classes before and never stuck with any of them because they were either too expensive, too regimented, or too hostile. East-West Wing Chun is none of those things. $60/mo gets you into all the class sessions you want, no BS. There are no belts and no uniforms; the class is set up such that Jasan guides you through the curriculum at your own pace, and along the way you're able to practice with and learn from every other student regardless of level. The atmosphere and the people are very welcoming and friendly; music is playing and people are chatting during class, and there are occasional fun extracurriculars like movie nights, class picture day, and a white elephant party. Also, self defense applications aside, it's good exercise (and easy to keep up due to being fun and engaging), and if you have a desk job the drills will improve your posture and help keep you from getting carpal tunnel. I only wish I'd discovered this place sooner!

Sifu Jason is an amazing instructor, great community, the curriculum is easy to follow but also…read morechallenging. Feels like second family