Our daughter (7 years old) has been training at this martial arts school for over a year now, and I…read morecan honestly say it has been one of the most meaningful experiences of her childhood so far. When we first enrolled her, it was simply to introduce a new form of exercise and help build her confidence. But what we discovered was so much more than just a class--it became a place where she grew, matured, and found something she truly loves. From the very beginning, I noticed how happy she was every time she stepped onto the mat. Watching her focus so intensely during class and seeing how proud she was of her progress made my heart full. Her confidence has grown in ways I never expected, and the joy she brings home--even practicing on her own--shows how deeply this has resonated with her. One of the things that stands out the most is the incredible consistency and structure the dojo maintains. The principal and the foundation of this dojo are grounded in expectations that are strict, but completely reasonable. Students are expected to come prepared, stay focused, practice, and give their best. And what's remarkable is how the instructors carry that same tone throughout every session--firm, supportive, and unwavering in their commitment to holding each student accountable. This level of structure has helped our daughter thrive, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. Each Sensei is compassionate, attentive, and truly invested in each child. They all make sure each student receives equal attention, no matter their pace or personality. I love not only rooting for my own daughter but finding myself cheering for every child in the room. You can actually see them growing--not just in technique, but in kindness, courage, and respect for one another. What moves me the most is the culture Freestyle Martial Art has created. Yes, the kids compete with each other sometimes, but afterward they show such kindness and encouragement. They lift each other up. They celebrate each other's wins. They comfort each other's frustrations. That kind of environment isn't an accident--it's a direct reflection of the teaching, leadership, and values here. We are incredibly grateful for the impact this school has had on our daughter. Her confidence, her focus, her discipline, and her sense of pride have all blossomed because of this place. Watching her progress under such exceptional guidance has been a gift, and we look forward to seeing her continue to grow in this amazing community. If you're looking for a martial arts school that teaches more than just technique--one that shapes character, builds confidence, and creates a truly supportive culture--this is the place.

Great place for kids to learn martial arts. Mr. Miller is very patient with children. He teaches…read morekids to be respectful and to follow rules, but creates an environment that's fun for the kids. My son loves coming here!

Authentic Chen style taijiquan training offered here. Bill and Allison are wonderful people.read more

A wealth of knowledge is within these doors. The…read moreproprietors, Bill and Allison Helm, teach Chen Tai Ji straight from the Chen Village, perform Chinese Massage, teach Qi Gong, host classes for Aikidou and Hung Gar Kung Fu, and they host great teachers from around the globe. I only have positive experiences here.

Very Family oriented. I feel comfortable with my kids here…read more Raquel is the owner and Mom and a super friendly and kind presence. I would poop here anytime.

I was able to drop in on the Sunday 10 AM gi class. I reached out via the contact from on the…read moreStronghold website and received a text in a very timely manner about my request to drop-in. The waiver and drop-in fee were also taken care of with Raquel prior to the class. Professor Johnny taught class; warm-ups, instruction/drills, positional sparring, then live rounds. There were only a few of us in the class, but everyone was extremely welcoming and very tough. Professor Johnny also participated in the positional and live rounds. It was a very good experience to be able to share the mats with someone so skilled and decorated. He put the hurting on everyone but did so in such a controlled and safe manner. Thank you for allowing me to train with you Stronghold!

I dropped in for a class since I was in the area for work. The facility was clean, and Clark was a…read morewelcoming and gracious host. The class was laid back, and everyone was very welcoming. I felt all the rolls were controlled, but i got an incredible workout; just a great vibe overall! I will definitely be back the next time I'm in town.

Our boys love this place. They are so good with the kids there and it helps our kids in so many…read moreways. 5 stars!!!

San Diego Aikikai has been the institution to represent traditional Japanese style teaching of…read moreAikido in San Diego. Aikido is a martial art and as such has a martial approach in it's philosophy, but one of the tenets is to seek ways to avoid conflict. This dojo and the instructors associated with it represent that philosophy as passed down from our principal instructors.

I trained at two of the previous locations and found the environment conducive to learning. The…read moredojo is very traditional, which is one of its best features. The form of aikido taught and practiced here is traditional as well, which to me means "small circles" and economy of motion - capturing the essence of the art. The idea that the dojo "promotes violence outside the dojo" is completely contrary to what I have observed about the philosophical approach taken by the dojo. I have studied Daito-Ryu ju jutsu and Iaido, which are much more combat-related, as well as modern combat arts. The aikido taught at SD Aikikai is not combat-oriented, although it can be used defensively. I never felt pressured to go to the dojo to train. Any pressure to train is self-imposed. The reviewer who complained about the dojo needs to examine their own motivations and sense of self. Blaming others for one's own psychological shortcomings is neither constructive nor helpful. As for the complaint that the dojo will "accept anyone who gives them money," I am not clear on why an aikido dojo would want to exclude anyone unless they have bad motivations for training. The point of aikido is to involve people - this is not a military arts school that operates in an exclusionary way. There are no contracts or special obligations imposed. I have to wonder at the motivation of the reviewer who attacked the Aikikai with untrue, unwarranted, and illogical complaints. Do they run a competing dojo? Have they ever trained at the SD Aikikai? Do they understand anything about the martial arts - and aikido in particular?

I was honestly really nervous walking into my first class I didn't know what to expect and felt a…read morelittle intimidated. But the moment I stepped in, everyone was extremely welcoming, respectful, and supportive. It completely put me at ease right away. I've always been into the gym and running, but I have to say... I truly fell in love with jiu-jitsu here. As a beginner, I really appreciate how my training partners and coaches take the time to guide me, explain things clearly, and make sure I understand always in a way that feels encouraging and uplifting. You can tell there's a strong sense of community and care in this gym, and it makes such a difference. If you're thinking about joining and you're new, I highly recommend North Park Jiu Jitsu. It's truly the place to be

I dropped in at North Park Jiujitsu while visiting San Diego for a trip. I'm a current purple belt…read moreand have to say, this is a premier gym with a great space, great technique, and great players. Its a super friendly, chill training environment, where everyone is there to learn. Coach Mike was very welcoming when I arrived for no-gi and gi classes. There are classes where you drill specific moves, then have a chance to apply them in a safe, live setting. Then there are classes that take a more eco approach, with situation specifics, tasks, live problem solving with questions from practitioners and direct, tailored feedback from the coach. If you're new and looking to get into the art, a hobbyist looking for a more chill vibe, or a competitor wanting to test yourself and get out on the comp mats later, this is the place for you.

The gym is amazing and the people are great but if you want to cancel your membership make sure you…read moreREAD your contract and understand it. The staff that are in there will help you out with anything that you don't understand just don't bs them when it comes time to put in work. The people in there as well can help you out with stuff you don't understand. If canceling just know ABC Fitness is a pain in the ass to deal with. The gym has helped me out with my cancellation so I have no problems with them but ABC Fitness can suck my fatty. Coach Jose, I appreciate the knowledge you taught me even if it was for a short while. To the owner: I bet you get a lot of hate because of this but just know I enjoyed the gym and the people I trained with. I would love to workout again at your facility if I ever get the change to come back out to SD but not while ABC Fitness is your financial advisors and holders. Again I appreciate the staff for helping me out.

Go to victory mma instead! They didn't disclose there was a 50 dollar cancellation fee to leave the…read moregym. In addition they did not mention I have to give 30 days notice by certified mail. They did not give the 30 days free for new members.