Pallen&#x27;s Martial Arts Tri Valley

(81 reviews)

3.3 mi

Guerrilla Jiu-Jitsu has truly been one of the best decisions our family has made. All four of us my…read more2 girls, my husband, and myself are part of the Guerrilla Jiu-Jitsu family, and it's been an incredible experience for each of us. From day one, the customer service has been top-notch. The environment is welcoming, supportive, and genuinely feels like a community. What stands out the most is that they welcome everyone there's no discrimination here. No matter your age, background, or personal circumstances, health condition etc. you're treated with respect and encouraged to grow. My girls are learning so much beyond self-defense. They're building discipline, confidence, courage, respect, and strong character. As a parent, that means everything. The instructors are exceptional highly skilled, patient, and truly invested in every student's progress. You can tell they care. The owner leads with kindness and creates a culture that pushes you to become the best version of yourself while still feeling supported every step of the way. This place is not just about learning jiu-jitsu it's about growth, empowerment, and becoming stronger mentally and physically. The place is extremely clean. If you're thinking about it, don't hesitate go sign yourself up. You won't regret it. And on top of everything, the pricing is extremely affordable for the value you receive.I wish I could give more than 5 starts because 5 starts isn't enough. Thank you Guerrilla jiujitsu.

If you are in the area and are looking for a jiujitsu academy to join, Guerilla is going to be one…read moreof your top options. They have an extremely clean facility, and all the instructors and practitioners are committed to helping you elevate your health and martial arts goals. My experience here for open mat preparing for competition was amazing, and I benefited from training with people here immensely. Thank you Guerilla Jiujitsu.

Super Guerrillas ages 3-5

Awesome instructors.

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Combat Sports Academy

Family-owned & operated

I have been living in the Bay Area for 2 years and I have tried a lot of Muay Thai gyms and there…read moreis nothing better than CSA. Great quality coaches and training partners plus the facility is top notch.

At this gym you will find world class coaches and athletes. There are a variety of classes at a low…read moreprice. The gym is very large and has a ton of new equipment to use. One side of the gym has multiple striking and grappling equipment for the MMA program including a ring and cage. The other side of the gym has a full CrossFit area with weights pull up bars. I personally have attended most of the classes the MMA program has to offer and all the coaches are some of the best in the game, but I attend the morning Muay Thai class with Amber the most and she is a fantastic coach with years of experience. My overall striking and grappling have improved because of this gym and I plan to train here as much as I can. Thanks CSA!

Strong is the new skinny!!!

30 X 30 Octagon

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CSA Kids Programs

Mach Martial Arts

4.8

(47 reviews)

2.2 mi

My son went to free trial Taekwondo classes and it was a great experience! The instructor was…read morefriendly and made sure everyone felt comfortable, even as a beginner. I loved the high energy and my son enjoyed the class. The class had a nice balance of challenge and support, and the environment was welcoming. It was a solid workout and a great introduction to Taekwondo. We decided to sign up for twice a week.

My daughter loves this martial arts studio! The instructors are very personable and truly cares for…read morethe kids to make this a really fun learning experience. The instructors make them work hard but the kids all have smiles on their faces throughout the entire class time! Even the instructors shows friendliness and smiles that shows they love being there. It's nice to see the enthusiasm and encouragement from the students and instructors.

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Kungfu Dragon USA

(154 reviews)

0.5 mi

I am having an exceptional experience so far! The Shifu's are knowledgeable, helpful and are there…read moreto teach and make you better with individual attention being shown to all students. I am really happy to have joined this school to learn traditional Shaolin Kung Fu from the best! Thank you Kung Fu Dragon USA!!

Great studio with very high quality teachers (Shifus). Our kids have been going there for years and…read morelove it. Highly recommended.

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Ground Rules Academy

(14 reviews)

0.5 mi

Imo the culture at a bjj gym is the most important and culture at Ground Rules is what sets it…read moreapart. As a beginner it was very easy for me to show up, ask questions, and learn without second guessing myself. It's an ego-free zone where you can learn at your pace and feel welcome. Also Russ is a great person and coach!

I joined Ground Rules Academy in February looking for something different than a standard…read moregym--specifically, purposeful and useful fitness. At 61, I wanted training that would help with my active lifestyle (surfing, hiking, paddle boarding) rather than just working out. I found exactly that here. The Russ's instructions are top-tier, but the highlight is the incredibly welcoming atmosphere. They know how to teach at my level and age without making it feel like a workout. A great decision.

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Kung Fu Kids

4.7

(30 reviews)

1.1 mi

We absolutely love Wushu Central in Pleasanton! Our son has been attending since 2024, and it has…read morebeen one of the best decisions we've made for him. He started in the Little Grasshoppers class, progressed to Little Pandas, and is now proudly in Mighty Tigers. Watching his growth over the past couple of years has been incredible--not just in his martial arts skills, but in his confidence and character as well. A huge thank you to Coach Camille, Coach Anna, Coach Kevin, Coach Quan, and Coach Keyvan. Each coach has played an important role in our son's development. They are patient, encouraging, and genuinely invested in helping every child succeed. They know how to challenge the students while making each class fun and engaging. What we appreciate most is that Wushu Central teaches so much more than martial arts. Our son has learned discipline, respect, focus, perseverance, confidence, and responsibility--life skills that extend far beyond the dojo. We've seen him become more confident, better at listening, and more willing to take on new challenges, both in and out of class. The positive and supportive environment created by the entire staff makes every child feel welcomed and capable. It's clear that the coaches truly care about their students and celebrate each milestone along the way. We are so grateful to be part of the Wushu Central family and look forward to seeing our son continue to grow. If you're looking for a martial arts program that develops not only strong martial artists but also kind, respectful, and confident young people, I cannot recommend Wushu Central in Pleasanton enough. Thank you to Coach Camille, Coach Anna, Coach Kevin, Coach Quan, and Coach Keyvan for everything you do!

While a refund was processed, I'm hesitant to give a higher review because 1) I was contacted…read moreimmediately after the refund was processed and asked to update my review or to remove it -- pretty sure this is not aligned with Yelp policies, 2) the company failed to act until I posted this review; prior to this, they ignored my complaints so we can imagine the number of other families who fell into the trap and did not get a refund, 3) they are using employees or associates to post fake 5 star reviews to compensate for the lower, authentic reviews, which also is in violation of Yelp polices. A few have been removed already. Overall, with practices like this, you should be wary of enrolling your child. There are many other upstanding businesses in the area. Edit: Update in response to Jade's response to this review. I just don't understand this back and forth, and now I'm learning that this company uses virtual concierges from another country to communicate with clients (see photo). This is why the customer service felt so odd. They are outsourcing customer engagement to someone who isn't in this country and doesn't know what is going on with the business at a local level.

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Mach Martial Arts

4.8

(96 reviews)

12.1 mi

My son has been a student here for over a year now and he absolutely loves it here. The teachers…read more(masters / sensei) here are amazing, especially for the care and approach they take when teaching younger kids. And it's not just the martial arts the kids are being taught here but there is an equal emphasis on discipline, teamwork and focus. We're really happy to have our son be a student here.

We started at Mach Martial when my daughter was 5, and it's been such a wonderful journey watching…read moreher grow from a little tiger.. We are so grateful for the valuable teachings from Master Nile and Master Sunny over these two years. While Taekwondo is often associated with physical fitness and martial arts, I truly appreciate how they weave in important life lessons. There's always a thoughtful "topic of the week," and they consistently incorporate it into each session in a meaningful way. The environment is warm, welcoming, and incredibly organized. The instructors are always available to answer questions, and the assistant instructors deserve a huge shout-out as well--they are so encouraging, motivating, and patient with the kids. This has been our favorite after-school class so far, and we couldn't be happier!

To this.....

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Livermore Martial Arts Academy

(89 reviews)

9.2 mi

My son has been a part of the LMAA family for the past eight years. He worked his way up from the…read morewhite belt and completed the black belt program in 2023, the day he turned 18. I can't say enough how grateful I am for the program's structure and the respect they teach and expect from the students. The LMAA staff work well with all ages, but if your student makes it to and through the black belt training, they will have learned and grown so much as an individual. My son came out of the black belt program transformed body, mind, and soul in amazing ways. You could see this change in the entire cohort he was a part of, and two years later, he still incorporates the things he learned into his daily life.

Our kids have been attending LMAA for about 2 years now and love it! The instructors are patient…read moreand are clear with their directions. They also help correct their stance and moves when they don't do them correctly. We love that they have a wide range of classes for all ages and multiple time slots for my oldest son who has other activities. I also appreciate the instructors reviewing at the end of class and they have a short discussion.

A picture of us at Livermore Martial Arts Academy living g our best ninja lives!

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EXTREME SKILLZ- 10-14 year olds

Crispim BJJ Barra Brothers

(63 reviews)

0.5 mi

World class, beautiful gym with amazing, dedicated and nurturing professors in our area! The…read moreFairtex ring has significant history with our family, and we were absolutely exhilarated when my sons were able to train in it! Very grateful for Professor Crispim and Professor Jeremiah for sharing all their knowledge and skills with our family Oss!

I think I've found a home at Crispim BJJ. Great instructor,a training partners and lots of options…read morefor classes.

Welcome to Crispim BJJ Barra Brothers!

Entryway to the new academy!

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Pure Barre

4.7

(80 reviews)

3.4 mi

I am new to fitness classes and new to Pure Barre. I chose Pure Barre after chatting with a friend…read morewho attended classes. I was looking for a cross training activity to help me improve my balance, flexibility, and strength, especially in my core. These classes check all of those boxes! That said, I have been delighted to find such a welcoming place full of capable, friendly, and patient instructors who are willing to help me learn and improve my form. The Pleasanton studio is clean and well organized and it is easy to schedule or change classes through their app. But really, the people who teach the classes, and those who attend them, make a difference with their positivity and encouragement. A bonus benefit (for me at least) is the mental workout I get too. I need to focus and concentrate during the workouts; both on getting my form correct and on the instructions given during the class. I like the variety of class formats offered and the ever-changing exercises done within each class. The variety keeps things fresh and helps me stay engaged and challenged. I want to stay fit and healthy as I age and Pure Barre classes will help me do just that.

This place will always hold a special place in my heart bc it's the first place I joined when I…read morecommited to my fitness journey. I even brought my mom along with me for a free class. This workout is extremely challenging but I felt my core getting stronger + it's FUN. I had to cancel my membership bc of expenses, but I plan on rejoining this summer because I miss it so very much. If you're looking for a judgment free / low impact exercise, this is the place. All the instructors are welcoming and sweet, but they're great at providing feedback on your form without making you feel icky.

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The Dublin Wave

3.2

(273 reviews)

2.1 mi

I have been to the wave many times, Jocelyn L. The staff there are young people and it is a really…read morenice facility. Like you Jocelyn, I am a very proud Hispanic. My kids had a great time. A couple of suggestions. Read the rules. It is clear that outside food or drink are not allowed. Neither are street clothes, as they are a safety hazard in public or shared pools. If people sneak stuff in without the staff knowing, then that is on them. I have seen people be asked to leave for sneaking alcohol in. I have never seen the staff there demand anyone throw anything away. They offer to let you walk it back to your car. Again, had you read the rules, you would have known this. In order to keep facilities like these affordable, the rules must be enforced. The insurance rates will sky rocket when there are claims because someone got hurt by a drunk patron. I used to work in Government, and this is the case with all facilities. Also, the wave has a lot of young people working there in their first job. They are learning how to work and be adults, show them some kindness. Lastly, please take an English class. As a Hispanic, I have worked hard to overcome people's negative viewpoints about us being uneducated and ignorant. Your review doesn't help in that regard.

The Dublin Wave seemed like it would be a good place to spend an afternoon with the kids, but the…read moreexperience was more frustrating than expected. The facility was extremely crowded, and several of the rides and attractions were closed, which left fewer things available for everyone who was there. There also were not enough places to sit while waiting for the closed attractions to reopen. The lifeguards did not come across as particularly friendly or patient with the kids, which affected the overall experience. I understand that staff members have to enforce safety rules, especially when the facility is busy, but the communication could have been more welcoming. The kids still had some fun, but the crowds, closures, limited seating, and service made the visit less enjoyable than it could have been. This place has potential for a family outing, but I would recommend checking what is open before visiting and going during a less crowded time.

The Wave - Dublin, CA

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Slides

Summit View Trails

4.3

(15 reviews)

2.1 mi

One of my favorite place for sunset stroll with my dog. The trail is pretty flat and takes around…read more10 min one way with lovely view of the valley. Along the trail, there are some picnic tables/ benches and a disc golf field. If you wanted to watch sunset at a summit without strenuous hiking, this is the place to go. Parking is easy around the neighborhood.

"Green Rolling Hills with Lots of Cows--Most Friendly but one Looked at me with Menacing Eyes."…read more I parked at the summit, and took the trail north. It's about 3 miles if you go all the way to the driving range at Bridges Golf Course. At that point the trail peters out. It looks like they are constructing a new trailhead there. The trail is open, so don't count on any shade in the summer. It's pretty much green hills, with a compacted dirt trail. Fortunately, it's not rutted. I found the hike mildly interesting, but honestly, nothing special. Near the golf course practice center, I saw a lot of range balls on the ground. I was tempted to take them, but I threw most of them back onto the range. I'm pretty sure I did not hit anyone, but a few times I heard some klunks, followed by shouts. I wasn't sure what that meant. They might have been mad that I still had 2 golf balls in my jacket. I did not notice I had borrowed some golf balls until I was pretty far away. These trails are good for beginner hikers, since there aren't any wild animals around. I'm pretty sure there aren't any rattlesnakes or mountain lions. But if there are, I did not see them. And even if I did see any, I had some golf balls I could throw at them. The only wild animals are herds of cows. And there are lots of them! At one point I had to go way around a huge herd. I'm not really afraid of cows, but one kept looking at me with menacing eyes and did not budge from the trail. I was afraid of that one. Could it be a boy cow? I was afraid to get close to find out, so I honestly don't know if it was a boy or girl cow. But he or she looked mean. The whole time I went around the cows I kept saying pleasant things like, "Hi Susie," or "Hi Betsy, how are you?" I'm pretty sure they knew I was a friendly man. I was surprised they knew English. So over all, a pleasant hike. Nothing really special, but plenty of parking makes this a convenient location. The incline is really not too steep, so most hikers will find this an easy hike. For yelpers who are geocachers, there are plenty of geocaches on this trail. I put out about 8 new ones, so there will be lots to find. Keep in mind that there really aren't any facilities such as restrooms or drinking faucets. On the other hand, it's really not a very long hike. Just watch out for that cow with the mean looking eyes.

Quick hike to the summit. Perfect for a brief meditation before starting busy day. San Ramon I love you.

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Jack L.

0

1

0

8 years ago

Amazing martial arts They teach you very well.

Pallen's Martial Arts Tri Valley - martialarts - Updated August 2026

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(81 reviews)

Guerrilla Jiu-Jitsu has truly been one of the best decisions our family has made. All four of us my…read more2 girls, my husband, and myself are part of the Guerrilla Jiu-Jitsu family, and it's been an incredible experience for each of us. From day one, the customer service has been top-notch. The environment is welcoming, supportive, and genuinely feels like a community. What stands out the most is that they welcome everyone there's no discrimination here. No matter your age, background, or personal circumstances, health condition etc. you're treated with respect and encouraged to grow. My girls are learning so much beyond self-defense. They're building discipline, confidence, courage, respect, and strong character. As a parent, that means everything. The instructors are exceptional highly skilled, patient, and truly invested in every student's progress. You can tell they care. The owner leads with kindness and creates a culture that pushes you to become the best version of yourself while still feeling supported every step of the way. This place is not just about learning jiu-jitsu it's about growth, empowerment, and becoming stronger mentally and physically. The place is extremely clean. If you're thinking about it, don't hesitate go sign yourself up. You won't regret it. And on top of everything, the pricing is extremely affordable for the value you receive.I wish I could give more than 5 starts because 5 starts isn't enough. Thank you Guerrilla jiujitsu.

If you are in the area and are looking for a jiujitsu academy to join, Guerilla is going to be one…read moreof your top options. They have an extremely clean facility, and all the instructors and practitioners are committed to helping you elevate your health and martial arts goals. My experience here for open mat preparing for competition was amazing, and I benefited from training with people here immensely. Thank you Guerilla Jiujitsu.

Crispim BJJ Barra Brothers

(63 reviews)

World class, beautiful gym with amazing, dedicated and nurturing professors in our area! The…read moreFairtex ring has significant history with our family, and we were absolutely exhilarated when my sons were able to train in it! Very grateful for Professor Crispim and Professor Jeremiah for sharing all their knowledge and skills with our family Oss!

I think I've found a home at Crispim BJJ. Great instructor,a training partners and lots of options…read morefor classes.

Kokua Martial Arts Fitness Academy

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This is a Kajukenbo Dojo that offers both Keiki (5 - 12 yo) and Makua (13+ Teens/Adult classes)…read more We decided to join this dojo because of the "Ohana" (family) environment- in addition to the deep respect and support the Senior Leadership of the Dojo has from the greater Kajukenbo community. As a family with blood lines that are part Hawaiian, the Ohana of a Dojo is an essential component for our family. Master Molina, Chief Instructor Nels Torino and Sifu Gary Yumang from the first day of class have not only warmly welcomed my family to Kokua, but have consistently provided hands-on detailed disciplined instruction with deep Aloha (Love). My boys are thriving at this dojo- but most importantly we have gained a larger Ohana (family). Your child and family will learn about focus, honor, humility and respect at this dojo!

Black Tiger Tae Kwon Do

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My son's been a part of Black Tiger for two years and absolutely loves it. The instructors have…read morehigh expectations but are also patient and caring. I appreciate the emphasis on focus, discipline, and hard work. There is also great communication with families. My son has participated in two local tournaments and an inhouse tournament, and the instructors made sure he was prepared.

We are loving this place. The teachers are patient and kind, with great energy and really engage…read morethe kids. Safety is a priority and they take it seriously both general safety and Covid safety. The classes are when I'm at work and I love that I can watch on Facebook and see my kid having a great time. I'm so happy we found the studio and my daughter is really enjoying her experience. This is definitely a business run on respect and integrity.

Kungfu Dragon USA

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I am having an exceptional experience so far! The Shifu's are knowledgeable, helpful and are there…read moreto teach and make you better with individual attention being shown to all students. I am really happy to have joined this school to learn traditional Shaolin Kung Fu from the best! Thank you Kung Fu Dragon USA!!

Great studio with very high quality teachers (Shifus). Our kids have been going there for years and…read morelove it. Highly recommended.

Martial Arts America

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I just love this place. Andrew is so great with the kids, especially the younger ones. Indy is the…read moresweetest and great with the kids too. My son learned a lot and they were so good with his silly personality. They work well with kids that are struggling with behavior issues. They just really seem to care and we always felt like part of the family.

I highly recommend taking Krav Maga at Martial Arts America. I have taken about ten classes…read morecombined at both the Livermore and Pleasanton locations. My review refers mostly to Livermore since the majority of my classes have been at that location. From the start the instructors make you feel comfortable and welcomed. Just as import, the Krav students are the same way. The pace of the class is excellent from the warm up thru learning moves/techniques and onto practicing the moves. The instructors offer an excellent balance of group and 1x1 time. Meaning, instructors give excellent feedback to each student throughout the entire duration of class. They really care and take pride in their job. At times the class can feel intense from a workout standpoint but this is a good thing. It's a fantastic workout. Students can take a break at any point they need a breather or water. The self defense techniques are taught at both a slow and fast pace. You are never left standing there not knowing what to do next. From the fitness aspect to the self defense skills you learn you really can't go wrong taking Krav Maga classes here. It has been an incredibly positive experience so far.

The Resistance Fitness Center

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Our entire family loves this gym. It's clean, the staff / trainers are knowledgeable and…read morepersonable, and most importantly for us, our kids really enjoy it too. We had been looking for a safe place to learn and appreciate fitness and martial arts together as a family, and this gym is perfect. If we're not on the mat, we enjoy strength training in the gym. I'm extremely excited to see the growth in confidence and discipline we've all built here. If you want to learn some fighting skills or just get in some great workouts, come here! Thank you SO MUCH to all the coaches and staff!!

I'm being truthful when I say this, I've been to multiple gyms in and around the Bay Area and I…read morehave never been to a gym that was more welcoming than the resistance. This is EXACTLY what everybody should look for in a gym. Not only is the training top tier but the students and coaches, no matter what, are always there to lift you up and strengthen your weaknesses. There is such an overwhelming feeling of positivity that I have never seen in any other gym. I was definitely very nervous stepping in on my first day but as soon as everybody started introducing themselves that feeling was replaced with the excitement to train with everybody there. I don't know how they did it but every person I've met who trains here just keeps me wanting to come back better than I was last class. if you are hesitant on what gym to pick please listen to me and just give the resistance a try, I promise you won't regret it.

Combat Sports Academy

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I have been living in the Bay Area for 2 years and I have tried a lot of Muay Thai gyms and there…read moreis nothing better than CSA. Great quality coaches and training partners plus the facility is top notch.

At this gym you will find world class coaches and athletes. There are a variety of classes at a low…read moreprice. The gym is very large and has a ton of new equipment to use. One side of the gym has multiple striking and grappling equipment for the MMA program including a ring and cage. The other side of the gym has a full CrossFit area with weights pull up bars. I personally have attended most of the classes the MMA program has to offer and all the coaches are some of the best in the game, but I attend the morning Muay Thai class with Amber the most and she is a fantastic coach with years of experience. My overall striking and grappling have improved because of this gym and I plan to train here as much as I can. Thanks CSA!

Golden Kung Fu Academy

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We can't say enough good things about Golden Kung Fu! Our kids have been taking lessons here for…read morethe past five years, and we couldn't be happier with their progress. Shifu is one of the best instructors we've ever met. He genuinely cares about each of his students, not only helping them develop their martial arts skills but also encouraging discipline, confidence, and respect. His dedication, patience, and passion for teaching are truly remarkable. We highly recommend Golden Kung Fu to anyone looking for an outstanding martial arts school.

The KungFu master, Sifu is a very good instructor. He is a very experienced master. He understands…read morehis student weakness, strength which enables him to improve his students. He encourages his teams to participate in competition as well as performance. Many of his students are top winners in the competitions. One of them is my daughter. If your kid loves martial arts, have him or her try out at this place. That was how my daughter started since 6 years old and still continues up to now. I wish I had my older kid join if I had known earlier.

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