We did not join this studio/ gym but I do want to commend the introduction and communication when going through the trial process. I originally identified this studio through a social media ad and then saw their videos, fbook, instagram, etc. I submitted the inquiry online and received prompt, courteous and clear communications from Sarah, New Members Coordinator, Lead Instructor, Carlsbad. We didn't have the pleasure of meeting Sarah in person but I appreciated her quick responses and ease to schedule our first introduction to the studio. Within a week, we had the opportunity to come by for a Saturday trial class at the Rancho Bernardo location. There are two studios: Rancho Bernardo and Carlsbad. The Rancho Bernardo one is near the fire house/ Webb Park (heading toward the library) and conveniently located in a shopping plaza. Our kiddos were in the 4-6 age range and they have no martial arts training or background (besides watching ninjago and thinking ninjas are super cool). They had a blast in class. Coach Chandler (?) was supported by some older volunteer students and other coaches. I was impressed with the teacher to student ratio, cleanliness of the studio, and the firm but loving direction provided. For example, I very much liked that the lead coach explained clearly to the young kids that screaming is not acceptable when saying "Yes Coach!" The instruction was easy to understand for the young kiddos. And he meant what he said. When one kid blatantly stepped out of line (class clown of the hour), Coach Chandler firmly and politely had the kid sit out the fun activity and then took the time to speak with the kid one-on-one and explain what the kid had done wrong. It was very impressive and well executed. We aren't familiar with martial arts in general but they explained they are a type of martial arts that is not form based (like Tae Kwon Do). They lean on many of the similar concepts but it's more defense instruction (how to actually execute a kick or punch properly so that a child can learn to protect themselves). I thought that was interesting to learn. The backbone to their program is the mindset they want to cultivate with young kids. They have a very well thought out program and in fact the first paper they gave us states: "We begin the Martial Art training journey not with punches and kicks, but with central lessons called Tenets." I REALLY liked this concept. They integrate parents into the learning process and help set attainable and age appropriate goals. Very well thought out program. Great leaders. Fun kids and coaches.. the kids loved it. We didn't participate this round just due to scheduling conflicts.. but do VERY MUCH recommend checking them out and scheduling a trial. One thing is to understand/discuss prior to your trial is the investment (they do offer a substantial discount for signing up same day as your trial) and the schedule. We may find ourselves back to join in the Spring but I did want to applaud the business. Girls and boys alike would excel in a studio like this. read more

SwiftKick Martial Arts - Sat class trial. Very impressed. - Boxing Near Me - San Diego, California

Fair warning, I have not attended SKMA since approximately 2015-2016 timeframe, but I highly doubt anything I'm about to say has changed. I started with SKMA back when it all began as a side hustle for Mr. Cowell as he was (I believe) a student at SDSU. In fact, we originally were using a church for class prior to SKMA moving into their current locations. I trained underneath Brian Cowell for approximately 7-8 years. There are no better boxing coaches or applied martial arts coaches, than Mr. Cowell himself. I can firmly attest to that having now lived all across the world and having avidly boxed in a few other locations inside this country and out. Mr. Cowell and his staff have a very solid history of being overtly friendly, extremely experienced, very diligent and very dedicated to Martial Arts as both a training regime and as a lifestyle. Martial Arts is not only a great means to get into shape, but when applied more mentally it creates a mindset which few hurdles in this world can stop. Every aspect of my life, and the quality of person I am today, is based in the foundation that SwiftKick Martial Arts, and Brian Cowell himself, instilled in me through years of training approaching a decade ago. If that is not a testament to a very worth wild investment, I don't believe I know what is. In terms of Martial Arts training and capability. Due my job, which works in the Anti Terrorism field, there have been more occasions than I have fingers and toes where I have had to rely on the techniques and skills I acquired through years of training from SKMA. It just works. Hopefully there is never a time to need to resort to violence. BUT.. if there is ever a time where you must, for the purpose of self defense, there is no greater means to prepare yourself. read more

SwiftKick Martial Arts - Boxing Near Me - San Diego, California

My son has been attending SwiftKick for many years now and has grown so much. He started attending classes when he was in 1st grade and he is now finishing up 4th grade. He has learned so much and continues to progress each class. We are so glad that we found this for him! read more

Did y'all know Bernard "Swiftkick" Robinson is a 3-time World Kickboxing Champion? His EXPERT TRAINERS are unmatched. Coach, Mike Page, has been training my son (privates) for 3+ years - no head-shots, ever. My son has ADD, so this left-right brain training is, essential. Bonus, Coach Mike is a true guide to this teenager. ~Dawn I Aragon, PhD ...btw - I teach a free community class, every Saturday, 9am. All Levels, and the bodies you have, are welcome. Bernard donates this space, for the community. read more

SwiftKick Martial Arts - COURAGEOUS YIN YOGA - Boxing Near Me - San Diego, California

My daughter has been going here for a about a year now, and we have no complaints. She's learned basic to advanced technique and its really improved her self confidence. Great place. read more

My daughter goes to SwiftKick Martial Arts since she was 6. All the Coaches are very friendly and very easy to work with. I like they train kids not only with their strengths, flexibility, but also respect, challenge themselves. read more

My kids have been coming here for years and have attended both locations and love it. 100% recommend.

My kids have been attending classes both in person and virtually for a couple years now, and we have had a fabulous experience! The staff are all polite, attentive, professional, caring, and VERY patient. I've watched my kids grow in their coordination, self-discipline, and overall martial arts skills. We love the emphasis on character development as well, and how engaging the coaches are during Zoom classes...not an easy task to keep 6,7 and 8 year-olds engaged virtually, but they do it well! Highly recommend this studio!! read more

Started our then 6 year old with a trial class at Chaparral elementary after school program to see if she liked it. Best decision ever! What a great company. Every coach is stellar and kid friendly. They don't talk down to the kids, expect the best and get it. What a confidence builder for our shy girl. She now goes two to three times a week and loves it! Special thanks to Coach Chandler who was so patient and kind in a chaotic after school environment! He's great with kids. Our girls confidence and self esteem has grown beyond our expectations. She also concentrates and listens to adults better in general, focus is a great added benefit! Can't recommend them enough for a young girl!!! read more

SwiftKick Martial Arts - Practice and concentration. - Boxing Near Me - San Diego, California

I started my daughter in martial arts last August. We were torn between gymnastics and martial arts. Since she needed help in focusing more (in general), we picked martial arts. Our friend recommended this studio in rancho Bernardo since we live in the area. I spoke with Brian Cowell (CEO and founder) he was the nicest person ever! He answered all my questions and concerns I had before we started. We also spoke to Bev and she was amazing too. She is in the Explorers class and she is loving it. Last week, she moved up to an orange stripe belt. She has improved on her attention span and her skills. The staffs there are amazing. They are so friendly and very knowledgeable of what they teach to the children. They also emphasize a lot on not using their skills outside of class unless they are in a dangerous situation (ex: stranger situation). At first my daughter cried because she was so nervous, but once she knew they were having so much fun, there was no more tears. I would HIGHLY recommend bringing your kids or even yourself (they have adult martial arts class too). It's a good workout and wonderful place for kids to learn many defense mechanism and also focusing skills. read more

My son has been training at Swiftkick since 2016. I can not say enough good things about the coaching staff, level of instruction, and results. They are amazing. I would highly recommend Swiftkick! read more

My son really does enjoy participating in Swiftkick Martial Arts. The staff is super friendly and always makes us feel very welcomed. The instructors are very patient and attentive to the kids. My son has learned a lot! read more

6 month's contract make me sick. Cuz of Covid , my son can't go to the class and we can't out of our 6 months contract. I have to pay every month even though my son haven't go to the class. Totally mess. read more

Swiftkick is an awesome martial arts studio! My two sons love training here. All of the coaches are friendly and patient teachers. They value honor, self-control, integrity as well as hard work. I highly recommend Swiftkick to anyone who is interested in martial arts. Go check this place out. read more

SwiftKick Martial Arts - Boxing Near Me - San Diego, California

Seriously, everyone here is amazing. They know how to keep it fun and teach skills at the same time. Their facility and equipment is clean and excellent shape. They play fun music when appropriate (like during warmups). They have several instructors helping when necessary. For example, one of my kids is 6 and in his class there's always 2 instructors, sometimes 3. Special shout out to Sarah. My daughter was too shy to try a group lesson, so Sarah made arrangements to teach her privately for a little bit with the goal for my daughter to join group lessons. They make the kids feel special and valued. It feels like a community here. I can't say enough good things. read more

I have all four of my kids in this with Kik program. All of the kids really like the instructors a lot and they learn a lot as well. They are on their way to the next colored built and they really get excited about going. It has installed a lot of confidence in them and they feel a higher sense of self-esteem because of the instruction and progress that they've made. read more

Last year, I signed up my child for the summer program. Since then she goes every week to as many classes as she can! This is not your regular martial arts program. What I like about this business is that Brian Cowell teaches children and adults mixed martial arts for settings we can learn and use for self defense in everyday situations. Every session starts with a fitness warm up which is also a great workout in and of itself! There are tests and evaluations. At the same time everybody has fun while Brian also instills the discipline and respect of martial arts to all his students. We love to come here and it is a positive environment while getting fit for the whole family. read more

I have been meaning to write this review for some time now and it's definitely both overdue and well deserved. I have been going to SwiftKick for a couple years and I have to nothing but great things to say about the owner and head coach Brian, the entire coaching staff, and their overall philosophy and approach to martial arts and self-defense training. It has truly been a life changing experience. I have lost 30+ pounds, gained so much confidence in my ability to defend myself and I'm having a blast in each and every class. Our daughter has also been attending classes for the past few years, has now advanced into their stage 2 children's classes and has gained so many different skills and abilities, many that are specifically geared towards ensuring her safety in the face of a potential bully or adult attacker. I feel comfortable and confident that she can handle defending herself in so many different situations that I have no hesitation in highly recommending SwiftKick to any parent looking to give their child the same defensive tactics that could save their life someday. In addition to these benefits, the coaches also also teach and reinforce other life "tenets" that the students take with them into other areas of their lives. They truly care about the health and well being of all their members and promote life philosophies that carry benefits outside of the dojo into everyday life. If you are at all interested in improving your fitness, developing critical self defense skills, meeting some great people, or helping give your child some critical life skills, then I highly encourage you to stop by, give them a call, or simply drop in to check out a free class. I promise you will thank yourself that you did. read more

My son has been a member of Swiftkick for several years. Early on, we were pretty happy with our experience there but that has changed over time. The number of students per class has almost doubled in the past year and their requirements to advance continually changes making it difficult to understand the requirements to reach a new belt. Many times we have felt they have been slow-walking these advancements in an effort to keep us there longer. I am not sure if that is the case, but we heard of another student who almost reached junior black belt but Swiftkick decided to increase the age requirement pushing it out years later for them. Recently we haven't been happy with the coaches and one in particular spoke to me in an negative manner about my 7 year old son in front of him. I felt their approach was unprofessional. For these reasons, I decided to take my son out of the class. Although I requested to remove my son before the 15th, Swiftkick insists on charging me for the entire month plus the following month. This is fairly upsetting considering we pulled out because of their instructor. read more

I only just began my training at Swiftkick about 4 months ago and I can say, without reservation, that this is the finest martial arts school I've ever trained at. The coaching staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and always open to feedback, and this is what truly sets it apart in my mind. Often I have visited other schools and observed a lot of instruction, but not always a lot of back and forth in regards to technique and helping bring a new student up to speed. This is not the case here, and it is what I truly enjoy about the instruction at Switfkick. The classes are physically challenging without being over baring, and the focus on getting in shape is a huge plus for me, since I have been out of the training cycle for many years. The school has been such a joy to be apart and so much so that my oldest daughter now also receives instruction. The kids classes focus on all the same principles as the adult class, albeit with a eye towards a fun training environment, but also teaching things like focus, attentiveness, and a myriad of other tenants that my daughter really needs in these formative years. When my daughter was not performing well in school, Coach Brian even took time out of his day to sit down one on one with her to give some positive reinforcement. That sort of attention to detail and fundamental caring for the students is something I had been looking for. The change in her school performance and her love for going to class has been an amazing thing to watch. The students themselves are also a unique aspect of the school. The Champions class is a mixture of new students like me, those who have trained here for years, young and old, men and women, and experienced and novice alike in multiple martial arts disciplines. Training with them is like having 4-5 other coaches right there in the class giving helpful hints and helping one another out. It's not uncommon for the higher ranking students to take time out of their training to help a newbie like me along. The feel is more of a family than a pure training environment. I've often heard people say that MA schools can be intimidating, this is not that kind of place. For my time, money, and training I could not recommend more highly that you give Swiftkick a look. read more

I've been here a few times now and it's such a great place! It's not at all macho & intimidating like a lot of martial arts studios can be... it's very friendly and professional, and there's people of all ages, sizes & walks of life. It's nice that you can have fun, learn valuable skills and self defense, and get a great workout all at the same time! read more

My son has been going to Swiftkick for over 2 years. He loves this place and so do I. Bev Smith has followed through when she first endorsed this program to me. My son has found confidence in himself which has shown it on and off the studio. They use positive reinforcement which create a very nurturing environment but at the same time competitive to its students yearning for improvement. read more

Hands down the best studio in Southern California. Best pricing, best staff, best experience, BEST VIBE, best of the best. Perfect for all age groups and very convenient location. Their class schedule is killer and every time I leave here reminded why I signed up in the first place. Brian has done an incredible job and his passion and Dedication to each and every persons success is inspirational and really admirable. It's what sets this establishment above the rest. There's no competition--this is where you need to be. read more

This place is amazing from owner to management and to coaches. We have been coming here for 2 years and we love it. The coaches are amazing, Coach Jared Smith, Coach Mike, Coach Parker, Coach Chandler, Coach Laura ..... Coach Jared Smith is amazing with his students, does an amazing job educating them goes above and beyond in demonstrating martial arts different techniques and I can't say enough about him as well very patient with kids. My daughter loves attending his classes. Coach Mike is fantastic my daughter loves attending his classes gets straight to the point while explaining everything they need to know, goes above and beyond in everything he teaches and demonstrates. SwiftKick martial arts is amazing and we are so happy to have signed up with the right place. Also SwiftKick is lucky to have such incredible and talented Coaches. read more

Before enrolling my 2 kids (aged 7 & 10) in classes, I had heard great things about the studio. My experience with their staff and program has exceeded my expectations. *Instruction and feedback is always positive *Lessons are presented in kid friendly/ relatable language *They keep a good student / teacher ratio *When one class is about to begin, one instructor keeps an eye on waiting students- this give me pece of mind that they are being supervised, and also assures that the current class is not disrupted *They check in with you to make sure the kids are benefiting from their instruction *They keep the students' attention by constantly changing activities *You are encouraged to go as often as you can, the more the better *The instructors all have great attitudes *They truly work on integrating character development into their program. * The students know what is expected of them and what goals they are working on All in all, super impressed! read more

I can't say enough about how great Swiftkick is. My son is quite nervous so on his first day he was super intimidated and got upset. One of the coaches (Coach Liam) took him to one end, used the mats to give them some privacy and did some one on one coaching with him to build his confidence and show him the basics whilst the class continued. He has since gone from strength to strength. His confidence has grown unbelievably. The other coaches are all amazing too. They have an excellent way of commanding respect whilst also adding in fun. In some of the modules they teach the kids not only how to deal with 'bad guys' but also how to deal with bullies and they make it very clear there is a distinct difference. I've watched a lot of classes and I'm really impressed with the variation and progression. I am also impressed seeing how they handle the more challenging kids. I am yet to see the class disrupted because they control the room so well. Hats off to Chandler and the team for a job really well done. read more

We are so grateful that we found Swiftkick Martial Arts. We were introduced by the after school program they offered on our schools campus. After just 7 weeks of training, through that program, we already saw a difference in our children's behavior, attitudes and confidence. We knew we needed to continue. We appreciate the flexibility of the program and the great leadership offered by the coaches in each class. We now have all three of our kids in the program. We feel good about investing into their health, their character and their safety. read more

My son has been going to Swiftkick Martial Arts for almost 3 years. He's now 7 and still loves and enjoys the classes. He has 2 different coaches as he attends classes 4 times a week. Coach Jordan Egger is wonderful and knowledgeable; I can see why the kids enjoy his classes. Coach JT Smith is also as fabulous and wonderful and my son looks up to him. They each have a different technique in teaching but ultimately with the same goal! Coach Brian Cowell is the owner who also coaches every once in a while in Rancho Bernardo. My son loves it when he teaches a class as he makes a class fun and controlled at the same time. It is impressive how well he knows every child's name without teaching or being there every day. He must have an amazing open line of communication with his staff! The reason why I like Swiftkick Martial Arts is, the combination of different types of martial arts they teach so your child is able to use in every day life, in case he needs to. If I have an issue at home or at school with my son, I can sit down with Mr. Cowell and we can work together at solving the matter even though it isn't happening during Martial Arts hours. He takes every issue seriously and puts the time to resolve it by following up with me. Every evaluation is taken seriously; Mr. Cowell and his team will not give any child a stripe or a higher belt if the child doesn't earn it. Couple of times my son didn't receive his full stripes on his belt because Mr. Smith didn't think he was ready for it, and that is what I appreciate from them. I know they are not here to just test and collect money on a belt that isn't earned properly! I can't say enough about Swiftkick Martial Arts and the entire staff who is kind and understanding. They have created a friendly, fun, yet disciplined environment for each child to learn a variety of Martial Arts technique and self-defense. Thanks Swiftkick for being such a great role model for my son! read more

My 7-year-old-son recently started in the SwiftKick program in Carlsbad. It has made a tremendous difference in his life. Coach Brian Cowell makes the class very fun for the kids while also instilling the discipline that is intrinsic to martial arts. Because of Coach Cowell's talent for teaching, my son has developed a tremendous respect for him. This has then translated into my son striving to improve not only his martial arts skills, but to also strive to live the life tenets Coach Cowell teaches his students, such qualities as honor and self control. I highly recommend this program for both children and adults. read more

I signed my 4 yr. old son up for the explorer program (3-5 yr. olds) a couple months ago. I have been so impressed with the structure and discipline they are able to instill in them at such a young age. The staff here is so professional, patient and attentive to each and every student. My husband and I couldn't be happier with every aspect of Swift Kick. My son absolutely loves it and looks forward to every class! read more

Wonderful place for kids to learn self-discipline and good life skills. We love all the coaches and the positive environment. I would recommend to any parent looking to build self-confidence in their child. read more

I recently started training at SwiftKick in the champions program for adults. I tried out a class and was immediately sure I'd come to the right place. I had been looking for places to train and SwiftKick gave me the right vibe. You get to train with really good people in a non-competitive environment where the concept of egos are left outside. The people who've been training here for a while help the newcomers to up their skill. Brian is the head coach along with Jordan and JT and each one is awesome in their own way. They bring their own personality into training and its brilliant to train under them. The crazy monkey defense which is practiced here strives to create a better you everyday and SwiftKick helps you get there read more

My daughter has been training here for about 6 years & has learned a lot. She is a (girly girl) but know she can protect herself.

I cannot recommend this studio highly enough. My son has been training with Swiftkick for about three years. I have never had a single negative interaction with anyone (and I've never heard of anyone else having the slightest problem, either). The staff is amazing. There is almost no turnover (which tells you something) and everyone is wonderful with all of the students. They are exceedingly patient, considerate, and kind while still instilling the values commonly associated with martial arts such as disciple, respect, self-control, etc. It is a fun, playful atmosphere but discipline is always present - "yes, sir," "no, ma'am," and the like are required, as is paying attention and being quiet during non-action times. They move quickly from activity to activity which always keeps the kids engaged. These people really "get" kids. They meet each child at his or her own place, physically, mentally, and emotionally, no matter the needs of any particular child, working one on one with kids who need that level of attention and instruction. They work hard to make EVERY student successful. My other son took a class at another studio where very strict discipline was enforced. That studio used punishment as a method of controlling students. Swiftkick uses praise. That studio tried to cram all students into the same program, leaving some students behind, feeling frustrated and bad about themselves. Swiftkick customizes their program to fit the needs of each student. My son has gotten so much confidence here, is amazingly physically fit, and has learned so much about respect, discipline, self-control, character, patience, determination, perseverance, so many other important values. I truly recommend Swiftkick to everyone in my everyday life and I recommend it here to anyone looking around to find a good place to learn and train. read more

Our whole family trains here and we love it! It's very practical self defense and great work out. We've been training here now for over a year. read more

My two boys love Swiftkick and its instructors, they get a great work out and I love that they are learning discipline and building strong character. Highly recommend this place. read more

My children have trained at Swiftkick Martial Arts for over 2 years. I love the consistency of the coaches and the team atmosphere they provide. The kids are so enthusiastic about the fitness aspect as well as the martial arts. It's a fabulous program. read more

We LOVE SwiftKick! My 6 year old son started classes here a couple of months ago and we could not be any happier. He's in a 6-11 year old age group, so at first we were a little hesitant. But EVERY coach has been so great and caring. Our son really enjoys it and every week we notice such an improvement in his confidence and abilities. The owner and coaches are all very personable and friendly. The classes start and end on time, and the class sizes are great. I highly recommend SwiftKick if you or your child is looking to get into martial arts. We did a lot of research and spoke to a lot of people prior to signing up and we could not be any happier! read more

Our son has been with SwiftKick for almost 3 years and loves it just as much today as the day he started. His confidence and esteem has grown exponentially, which can be largely attributed to the great follow through and character training from the coaches. We are thrilled to have such kind, strong, character-filled young men as an example for our son, and have confidence in their leadership and guidance when our son is in their care. We have great respect that their program focuses on defensive protection, while integrating games and activities to help with application of proper technique. SwiftKick's office staff embraces everyone who walks through the doors and makes you feel like family. We are so thankful for their investment in our family and appreciate their open door policy. We cannot recommend SwiftKick enough! read more

I took a self defense course from Brian Cowell and two of his other coaches after being assaulted on the street in front of my home in RB. It was such an amazing experience and I am so glad that I did it! Not only did I learn important self defense skills, but I also regained a lot of confidence in myself. I am 5'9, 136lbs and have to ask my roommate to open pasta jars for me, and by the end of the 3 hour class I could flip a 200lbs instructor off of me from my back. I so highly recommend Brian and his team for anyone looking to learn self defense, confidence, or martial arts. Thanks SwiftKick Martial Arts! read more