Coach Rodness does an outstanding job and I cannot speak more highly of the coaching he has provided our son in jiu-jitsu. Coach is extremely knowledgeable, patient, and beyond dedicated. I have also trained in jiu-jitsu with Coach Rodness and the experience has been excellent. Highly recommended. read more

Our son has been training at Rodness' Martial Arts Center for about three years, and the experience has been outstanding from day one. Mr. Rodness has a teaching style that really connects with kids. He manages to balance discipline and encouragement in a way that keeps students motivated. What we appreciate most is that it is not just a martial arts school. The classes consistently reinforced focus, perseverance, accountability, and respect. Those lessons have carried over into school and every day life for our son. If you're looking for a place that develops confidence and character in addition to excellent martial arts skills, this is a fantastic environment. We're grateful to be part of the program and highly recommend it. read more

We highly recommend Rodness Martial Arts Center! My husband and I recently had our 8 year-old daughter start the Junior taekwondo (white to blue belt) class to get experience in martial arts. She not only loves the classes, her skills improve with every thoughtfully-planned lesson and we feel that she is becoming both stronger and more confident over time. Steve Rodness obviously has an extensive knowledge of martial arts and is skilled at connecting with children, welcoming each student warmly while also being firm enough to control a large class. Our younger daughter will join his classes soon as well. Specific class details can be found in other reviews, so I wanted to mention that my husband and I put a lot of thought into selecting a dojo/dojang here in Davis. While we both have experience in different Japanese martial art styles, we were specifically looking for martial arts taught with a connection to culture and character development along with a friendly and supportive community. In addition to physical techniques, Steve Rodness at RMAC emphasizes guiding principles that are essential not only for martial arts as self-defense and a physical art form, but for living life as a strong and dedicated human being. We're lucky to have found such a positive place for our family. read more

Our kids belonged to a very competitive Tae Kwon Do studio in Hawaii and we weren't sure whether we could find a similarly disciplined dojang with strong personal values here in Davis. We are so fortunate to have Master Rodness guide our children into their black belts! He possesses deep knowledge of a wide range of martial arts disciplines, including Tae Kwon Do, Jiu Jitsu, Kali (Filipino stick fighting) and more. He inspires precision, discipline, and perseverance in every student, and unlike many other martial arts masters teaches every class personally. At a recent tournament, he stayed for our daughter's sparring event even though it was late in the day and she was the only remaining student in his studio participating at that point. He mentally prepared her and stayed in her corner the entire fight, inspiring her to rise up and hold her own against an older and bigger fighter! If you are seeking a true martial arts master for yourself or your child, seek out Master Steve Rodness at RMAC. read more

Rodness' Martial Arts Center - Master Rodness mentally prepares his student before a tournament sparring match. - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Davis, California

See all

My son absolutely loves taekwondo here! Mr. Rodness is a wonderful instructor and very patient with my very enthusiastic/energetic kiddo.

My son has been taking taekwondo with Coach Rodness for three years and loves it. Coach Rodness gives a lot of attention to building flexibility, strength and technique, which forms a very important foundation for those who want to advance in belt level and compete at tournaments. He has a thoughtful and deliberate process for preparing students for sparring and competition. He accommodates different levels of students in his classes, and he encourages the students to challenge themselves. His teaching also helps develop students' confidence and respect. He is very supportive, and it is a great environment for learning and growing. I highly recommend Rodness Martial Arts Center. read more

I highly recommend RMAC to anyone looking to grow, both on and off the mat. My siblings and I started training here at a young age, back when RMAC had just opened and I was only 5 yrs old. It wasn't just kicks and punches, it was structure, discipline, and mental toughness. RMAC became family and helped shape the foundation of who I am today. The discipline, focus, and confidence I gained have stayed with me into adulthood. It's more than martial arts it's lifelong character development. Forever grateful for Mr. Rodness! read more

Our son has been going to Rodness for over a year now and we have seen great progression in his Taekwondo but also with his behavior, confidence, attitude, and self discipline. We have also been to other martial arts studios in town for various events but Rodness stands apart. I couldn't recommend Rodness more for kids looks to gain skills, confidence and discipline while learning martial arts and getting some great exercise and training! read more

Master Rodness is dedicated, patient and precise. Small family run business teaching timeless values to our kids. My kid is also getting great exercise, honing coordination, learning team spirit, and having fun. We are extremely happy with our experience. read more

Highly recommended! Rodness Martial Arts has been amazing for our 6 year old. He looks forward to the classes each week. His coordination and focus have improved greatly and most importantly, his confidence is growing. The instructor is extremely knowledgeable and supports each student. The classes focus on martial arts instruction and emphasizes character development. The atmosphere of the studio is positive and encouraging. We feel lucky to have found an amazing place in Davis. read more

Our son loves Rodness Martial Arts! Mr. Rodness is awesome with the kids. The classes always have life lessons centering on respect, perseverance, integrity etc. and We find that very valuable. Highly recommend! read more

My 7 year old and 9 year old both take Tae Kwon Do lessons at Rodness Martial Arts. Mr. Rodness is highly skilled in the disciplines he instructs, great with the kids, patiently teaches, keeps each class paced well, and refreshes each session with new ideas and activities. Belt testing is offered either every two months or quarterly and kids earn tips on their belts when they attend. He clearly values each child as an individual and gives personalized attention to each. He always ties in positive conversations with kids about how they can apply concepts of both in Tae Kwon Do or BJJ and at home (respect for parents, being kind to siblings, etc.). I love that our monthly tuition includes up to 3 sessions per week, we generally go twice a week, but sometimes we're there three times per week. My youngest (3 and a half) insists on staying and watching her older brothers practice- she can't wait to be part of the little dragons when she turns 4 in the summer. The schedule is super consistent each week, month and year which is also a huge plus for us as a busy family. It's available on the website https://rodnessmartialarts.com/schedule and kept up to date so we never have to worry about last minute changes or keeping track of anything. My 9 year old takes Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) here which is convenient because he stays to take the class right after TKD. Mr. R is an extremely effective instructor in this discipline as well. The belt tests for both BJJ and TKD are both challenging and fun for the kids, they really look forward to it when it is time for belt testing and feel very proud when they earn their way to the next level. My kids add: "Mr. R is really nice, teaches us cool kicks, and teaches us how to tie our belts. He taught me how to even make a cool snap sound with my belt when I tie it" -(7 year old) "He's really kind and challenges me to be my best. I also like that he doesn't push me past my limit if I'm feeling frustrated and lets me take breaks if I need them." -(9 year old) Best way to get ahold of Mr. R is to email or drop into the studio between classes. I believe there are sign ups on the website as well, but if you contact him directly you can schedule a trial class. He offers special rates for siblings and often runs specials for sign ups. We've found the tuition reasonable compared to other studios in the area, especially considering the reliability of the schedule and value of the instruction. Our kids have greatly improved their flexibility, strength, and technique- we are very pleased. read more

Rodness' Martial Arts Center - Mr. R with the kids after belt testing - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Davis, California

See all

My 6 year old daughter has been taking classes 2 days a week for 9 months here and I couldn't be more pleased with Rodness Martial Arya. Mr. Rodness teaches every class and every student, his knowledge and skills are admirable, his attention to detail in the technique he teaches is the same for my 6 year old as it is for his adult black belt students. My daughter learns something new each class, her kicks, blocks, punches and overall skills are impressive, she has become stronger, more flexible, she is motivated, respectful in class and her confidence is flourishing. Mr. Rodness is great with kids....all kids. His expectations are consistent and he truly enjoys working with every student there. We chose Rodness because of the smaller class sizes, and the consistency in technique and skills you get with one teacher. I highly recommend Rodness Martial Arts. read more

Rodness' Martial Arts Center - Students holding position so Mr. R can check that everyone has it right. - Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Near Me - Davis, California

Rodness is an amazing instructor. Very patient, understanding and experienced. Highly recommend attending a class or two depending on what you are looking for. read more

Mr. R is a true master, combining Taekwondo instruction with exceptional mentorship. My son has been training with him for three years, and our experience has been nothing short of outstanding. read more

Been training at Mr. Rodness's studio for many years now! He is an amazing instructor and always creates a positive environment. He runs his classes in a way that all levels of experience will benefit from and he encourages skills that not only apply to training but to life outside the studio. Highly recommend his classes!!! read more

Our 9 year old daughter has been doing BJJ for kids here for a little over six months. Mr. Rodness is patient, kind, and welcoming with new students. With his instruction during this six months she's been able to develop a solid basic understanding of jiu jitsu and is excited to go back every class. As a parent I appreciate that this is not a belt factory. Mr. R is passionate about the sport and our children's personal development. The Kids BJJ class is highly recommended for beginners. read more

Our son is wrapping up 5 years of tae kwon do with Mr. Rodness and his team, from 8th grade to high school grad. It was been a wonderful process to watch our son develop the skills he has learned over this time, as well as the dedication to the discipline and the values that are instilled as part of their training principles. Mr. Rodness has provided a firm yet encouragingly supportive environment where our son was able to develop his motor skills, coordination, and hone his strength. We will be forever grateful of the time he has spent there for more reasons than just developing the skills required for this martial arts style. Thank you, Mr. Rodness! read more

We have been going to Rodness Martial arts for several years. He is an amazing martial artist and a brilliant instructor, meeting students at their individual level. If you are looking for a family style, supportive environment this is the place. My daughter earned a black belt in TKD and learned discipline, respect, and perseverance as well as the ability to protect herself. We both go to kickboxing and I look forward to it every weeks. Master Rodness has been an important part of our lives and fitness. I couldn't recommend Rodness Martial Arts more. read more

We have been enjoying Mr. R's classes for 2 yrs now. My daughter attends his Tae Kwon Do class and is a faithful student. We enjoy his positive attitude and the knowledge he imparts on his students. It has been a positive experience and we look forward to continuing on with him. read more

I reached out to Rodness as a thirtyish man who had literally zero experience in martial arts, looking for a basic introduction, and Rodness' Taekwondo classes were exactly what I was looking for! All of the classes were wonderful, and the instructors kind, motivating, and, especially for me, patient! I sincerely appreciated their time and expertise, and Rodness Martial Arts Center is a great program that I would recommend to any and all adults of all levels interested in martial arts! Thanks Professor! read more

This has been a fantastic (re)introduction to self defense for my wife and me. Mr. R. has a professional, yet warm and effective means of communication that includes both physical strength, but also a warm sense of family and inclusion, bridging the more expected "gym" attitude with a caring approach. We are really pleased with how things are going, and our improved sense of confidence. Strong work, Mr. R!!! read more

I had been very interested in getting my son (8) involved with a martial art for some time. He had previously taken a short introductory session in Taekwondo some years prior and had enjoyed it, so I was on the hunt not only for "where" but "what." He and I spent some time looking at videos online and he expressed an interest in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), which, given its place in MMA, I was all for. After some research on available schools in Davis, I emailed Rodness' Martial Art Center for more info and from the get-go Mr. Rodness was courteous, encouraging, professional, and easy to work with. We started with an introductory class where my son really had a great interaction with Mr. Rodness as the teacher, but also with the other students, which is also reflective of the environment they learn in. I signed up my son for classes, and since then it is something he looks forward to every week. In the two months we've been attending he has already learned a tremendous amount (as have I observing), and is discovering a love for a pursuit that will benefit him for the rest of his life. More importantly, as I alluded to above, I am incredibly impressed with the learning environment Mr. Rodness creates, both encouraging and task-oriented, with an emphasis on camaraderie and respect. The classes aren't simply technique, but the logic behind the technique, the respect of learning the building blocks, and how to interact with both the teacher and the other students. More advanced students are often asked to help peer-coach newer kids during some drills (including my son), and seeing two kids discuss proper technique colloquially and patiently, walking through each step, is also reflective of how those kids were taught to interact. While my son is in BJJ, I've had the opportunity to observe the Taekwondo class prior to my son's, and there is no difference in the quality, type, and interaction between Mr. Rodness during that class with his students. He is a strong teacher, engages well with the skilled and non-skilled students, and really is adept at talking and explaining things to kids in a way that they understand not just the "what" but the "why". The cost of lessons is in line with other schools, extremely reasonable, and worth every penny. If you're looking for a martial arts school where your child gets to learn in a fun, safe, and encouraging environment - this is the place in Davis. read more

We love this place! Both my kids are in the TKD and BJJ classes. I really appreciate the flexibility to make up classes when we end up missing classes due to illness, etc. The kids' confidence in their bodies has definitely increased. This translates to other areas as they are constantly having to try things that may be a challenge. I also really appreciate that Mr. Rodness is very aware of each child's ability, he does a really good job of pairing kids at similar levels and also coaching stronger students when working with younger students to use self control. The lessons they are learning are far beyond just karate or self defense. I highly recommend. read more

This is a great and unique martial arts gym! The instructor, Mr. Rodness, has a wealth of expertise and trains you with patience and accuracy. He also has a charisma that makes classes very personable -- no wonder this gym has been successful for the past 25 years! My favorite thing about taking kickboxing classes is the supportive environment the classes have. The other students in the class are like family. Rodness pushes you (the workout is INTENSE) past boundaries, but it's a load of fun. The price of the membership is a steal compared to other gyms in the area/industry. Overall, my boyfriend and I love it!! We learn great skills while getting an incredible workout. read more

Rodness Martial Arts Center and Steve Rodness himself have provided excellent martial arts training for my 12-year old son. My son has been talking BJJ from Rodness for two years and has just started the fitness kickboxing class, which is a great workout and he loves. Mr. Rodness runs most of the classes himself and he is great with kids of all types. I highly recommend this studio for anyone interested in martial arts and, particularly, children. read more

I have been looking for a Taekwondo Studio in Davis and am so grateful that we found this studio. This is the only studio in Davis that teaches Taekwondo - (they teach other martial arts as well) My two boys, 9 and 12 have been taking taekwondo for the last couple years. They love the classes led by owner and seventh degree black belt Steve Rodness who has been doing this for over 25 years. Steve is amazing with kids of all ages - I think as young as 4. He's experienced, enthusiastic, positive and very skilled at teaching the kids the technique as well as the key principles of martial arts. I would recommend this studio without hesitation to any family looking for the best martial arts instruction!!! read more

I really appreciate the candid approach that prevails during my son Rafa's Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class. Mr. Rodness is an excellent teacher he instills confidence. My son looks forward going to his martial art class, afterwards shares what he's learned and tells me what he going to do when he returns to Mr. Rodness class. I couldn't more pleased!!! read more

Amazing energy love the atmosphere, Mr. Rodness is a great instructor. Try out the Muay Thai classes and get ready to sweat lol

I have been working with Rodness Martial Arts Center for a couple months now, and I love it! The community is great, the classes are fun, and I have so much respect for everything I am being taught. I have only done the adult Tae Kwon Do classes so far, but I'm looking forward to exploring their other options when my summer job is over- especially Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and Kickboxing. The amount of courtesy, integrity, perseverance, and self-control taught here certainly makes my spirit feel indomitable. I also appreciate how the atmosphere promotes equality. Within the age variety, everyone has a different background, reason for getting into martial arts, skill level, and educational background. This school really shows you how to level the playing field with respect, hard work, and a desire to be better. Thank you to Steve Rodness and his team! Looking forward to more classes! read more

My child (12 y.o.) took BJJ classes there for a year, but sadly we had to leave. I just wanted to leave a comment about how very good this place is for kids, and provide some insight for other parents. Steve Rodness, who is black belt and has big experience in working with kids, runs these classes. Often, other knowledgeable instructors help him during the class making it a great instructor/student ratio, and providing with personalized attention. The class is not a boot camp, but absolutely not laid back - structured, hardworking (interrupted only by short water breaks) but still very friendly atmosphere. Steve has a talent to maintain high discipline in class without any intimidation. New-comers are welcomed very warmly by students, and students are always encouraged to help each other during drills. The class is not big but there are always partners to roll with, or if not... the student practices with the instructor thus receiving private lesson. :) They are tested for belts once in a while, inquire the instructor about the details beforehand, so you are informed how it runs. Yep, there is a one-year contract to sign up. I guess, *communication* is a key-word here. Just simply openly discuss with Steve how the things will work if you need a break for some reason, or want to cancel it. My kid got seriously ill for some time - Steve was very understanding and we could roll over the time he missed. To sum up my opinion - high quality, professional and still kid-friendly place. Best Regards! read more

This place is a great place to learn and practice martial arts. I currently do the MMA/BJJ courses, and the instructor Steve Rodness is very knowledgeable about both striking and grappling. My only two complaints are that there are sometimes random cancelled classes, and the 1 year contract to sign up. However, this wasn't a huge deal for me as they said that I could roll over the months I miss while I was busy playing my sport at UC Davis. Overall a good place with a great instructor. read more

We've been taking our son to Rodness' Martial Arts Center for over 4 years and love it. We've recommended it to many of our friends and they too love it. It's family owned and run...they take much pride and care w/ their instruction. As an owner of my own business, First Street Real Estate, I can truly appreciate the labor of love that goes into owning and running a business. We are lucky to have found them, and it has very enjoyable. We look forward to many more years with Rodness' Martial Arts. read more

Great bjj instruction and great club environment. Everyone here is very welcoming and really learning a lot from the coach. Definitely would recommend for beginners and advanced read more

Being referred to Rodness Martial Arts Center has been one of the best things for our family. In a nutshell, I highly recommend anyone interested in marital arts or self-defense to swing by the classes to experience for themselves. Mr. R and the coaches are great Instructors! Emphasizes the use of technique of "the gentle art" and provides great class structure to keep students of all ages engaged and motivated. For those that like a little more detail ...Our almost 5 year old son has been enrolled in the children's Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) class for about 10 months. Our son actually looks forward to the classes and enjoys both Mr. R and Coach Ms. Jen tremendously! They pay attention to detail with each student and do a great paring them off to learn from each other. They have greatly helped shape his confidence and discipline; and there is no better evidence than in the more seasoned children at the school who are great role models for the newer belts. It is a joy to see the level of excitement in all the children, especially in our son when he is on the mat rolling. The studio also offers adult BJJ classes which I attend on a regular basis. I have to admit that I was a little hesitant enrolling into a martial arts class that I have had no prior experience in, at my age, and being out of shape for the better part of a decade but after my first week of class (and feeling tremendously sore), I could not wait until the next week. Mr. R and other students make it very welcoming and everyone is very aware of each person's capabilities and does a great job of motivating each other to the next level. It has been a great lifestyle change that has helped me feeling better about my health and in just under 10 months has helped me shave off almost 15 lbs. - a little more than half way through my goal of losing 25 lbs. When I can, I even attend the MMA for the Street classes. Above all, it has been a great bonding experience with my son! Recently, our family even got to experience attending our first BJJ Tournament together to cheer on fellow classmates. read more

My 7 year old daughter wanted to practice martial arts, we chose Master Rodness' studio, and we are so happy that we did. He teaches martial arts, but really he, and all the instructors-Jen Spore as an example-are teaching our children to be responsible, successful adults. I appreciate the individual attention the students recieve at the dojo with every class. Master Rodness has built a safe and supportive place for children and adults to become the best people they can be. read more

Rodness' martial arts center is awesome. Every people in the center is nice, active and passionate. Through Taekwondo training, I have learned how I can control and concentrate myself with a sense of accomplishment. Steve has alway encouraged me. I appreciate every people and every moments in Rodness' martial arts center. read more

Been attending RMAC for almost a year and it's been a great experience. Steve Rodness teaches great BJJ/MMA courses and his TKD is superb. If you're in Davis and need a place to train or want to start training GO HERE!!! read more

Great atmosphere! My little cousin has been going here for years so when picking her up i decided to check out what Mr Rodness was all about. The man is very respectful and gave me the opportunity to enroll at a discounted rate since im a Davis student! Ill be joining RMAC within the next few weeks! read more

My 6yr old daughter has been coming here for 6 months for Jujitsu and Taekwondo and she loves it! Mr. Rodness is fantastic with the kids while not only teaching Martial Arts but also teaching life lessons about how to conducting themselves. If your child is even a little interested get them in to try it out, you'll be happy you did! read more