A Truly Exceptional Martial Arts Community at NCMA…read more NCMA has been an incredible place for our family, and we are so grateful to be part of this karate community. The studio shares the same facility as Carlsbad's Best, but the martial arts program deserves its own special praise. My oldest is now a black belt, and watching that journey has been amazing. My youngest and I are working through the color belt ranks together, and training side by side has been one of the best experiences we've had as a family. I love that karate is a lifelong sport. There is always more to learn, and the community here makes you want to keep growing. The coaches are outstanding teachers. They know how to push students in a positive way and bring out their best. Their approach helps build discipline, self-respect, and real confidence, not just in class but in everyday life. One of the things that stands out most is the black belt community. Every black belt student I've met here seems wise beyond their years. They know how to communicate with adults, support younger students, and speak comfortably in front of groups. It's a level of maturity that is rare to see, and it reflects the quality of instruction at NCMA. If you are looking for a place to train, learn, and become part of a strong, supportive community, NCMA is truly something special.

We went to their event and everyone was so nice and welcoming. There was a lot of activities for…read moremy girls to do. They had a lot of fun!!!!

After training Brazilian jiu jitsu for more than 10 years and visiting academies across different…read morecities, I can confidently say that Gracie Jiu Jitsu Oceanside stands out in all the right ways. From day one, this academy felt like home. The culture is incredibly welcoming and genuinely family friendly. You see it immediately in how students support each other on and off the mats, how instructors engage with kids and adults alike, and how everyone from beginners to experienced practitioners is treated with respect and encouragement. The instruction is outstanding. Techniques are taught with clarity, purpose, and attention to detail, making classes accessible for someone stepping onto the mat for the first time while still challenging for those looking to sharpen and elevate their game. The coaching balances fundamentals with real world application, which is rare and incredibly valuable. One of the biggest strengths here is the schedule and variety of offerings. There are consistent training opportunities throughout the week, plus excellent judo and kickboxing programs that complement jiu jitsu development and overall fitness. Whether your goal is self defense, competition, or personal growth, there is something here for you. If you are new to jiu jitsu and looking for the right place to start, this is it. If you have been training for years and want an academy that will push you while making you feel part of a true community, this is also it. Highly recommended.

They are amazing! All my kids go there and have a blast! They're so welcoming and patient. My kids…read morenever trained before and they're happy to get up in the morning and learn something new! Highly recommend!

Where do I even begin... this space has been incredible for my son. From the moment we joined, it…read morewas clear that this academy is rooted in authenticity, positive youth development and a strong sense of community. The instructors have a genuine ability to meet each child exactly where they are, balancing structure, discipline, and silliness. The growth I've seen in my son has been amazing. Not just in his skills, but in his confidence, self-control, and how he interacts with others. The leadership team truly cares, they take the time to support his individual goals, check in on how he's doing both in and out of class, and partner with us to strengthen goals like frustration tolerance and impulse control. As someone who has worked in youth development for over 15 years, I don't say this lightly... this academy is the real deal. I regularly recommend it to the families I work with who are looking for something that offers real growth and value for their child. We feel so lucky to be part of this community. Thank you Sabumnim Mikita and Kyosanim Royal for loving our guy!

Great teachers, great studio, everyone is nice. I love training here, and helping out.read more

Excellent instructors that gave our son a great karate beginning at the Mottino YMCA brought us…read moreover to this beautiful, new Dojo to take his training to the next level. What stands out is the distance so many parents/ families are willing to travel (when it's not hard to find several "karate" studios in close proximity.) In my opinion, it the excellence of their instructors, both in skill and personal character that builds trust and long lasting relationships. There is a true sense of community and excellence in training. I don't know much about karate- but as parents, we do have experience seeking out excellent coaches and teachers for our children. They know their students- and seek to understand their personalities, strengths, and weaknesses - you can't go wrong with people like that who support and encourage your child's development of skill and character.

If you are looking for glorified babysitters for your kids, then this is not the place for them…read more The instructors will not only teach your kids martial arts. They will teach them how to become good fighters, great students at school and respectful children to their parents. Dojo is Yamashita affiliate.

My kid had a great experience training for 7 years at this Aikido school. Gallo Sensei is not only…read moreskilled but also very kind and supportive, creating a welcoming and respectful environment for everyone. During her time here, she learned a lot--not just about the physical techniques of Aikido, but also its deeper philosophy. It's been a rewarding journey both physically and mentally. I would definitely recommend this school to anyone interested in Aikido.

Aikido San Marcos is a wonderful place to learn aikido! I started going here with my son about five…read moreyears ago and we trained together in the kids/family class. What a great time we had learning aikido together. It has a family atmosphere and is filled with wonderful people. Sensei Gallo is a great teacher. I have learned so much there and have made some great friends. I highly recommend it.

I have been attending this school for two years. I have studied martial arts and been in law…read moreenforcement for 35 years and can say this is the finest traditional martial arts school you will ever find. Prices are very reasonable, the curriculum makes sense, and they put you on a fast track to great knowledge and self discipline. Highly recommended for all genders and age groups.

Karate taught by well experienced Japanese Master. Children here are focued, self-motivated,…read morerespectful, and playful, that says a lot about his teaching. Not only they are getting the authentic training, but also having a great time working out.

Located in Vista CA, this dojo is a diamond in the rough for those who are looking to enroll their…read morekids or even themselves into a martial art school. Sensei Salvatore has years of experience teaching all ages from 3 years old to even 70+. Sal does great working with students who require a more focused approach if need be and can adapt his teaching curriculum to match the variated students. The dojo offers various classes apart from karate such as a beginner weapon class, gymnastics class and even private lessons. The community feels like one big family and the atmosphere is wonderful and very welcoming. The various instructors who guide classes and teach dojo mannerisms put their time and effort into helping the students thrive. If you want a change in attitude, discipline and self respect this dojo is the perfect start.

i'm so happy that i found this dojo... the people there are so kind and empathetic, and my autistic…read moredaughter feels respected and appreciated by sensei and all of the teachers and students there... it has been a profound experience for her and i am deeply grateful seeing her grow and feel safe under the tutelage of sensei...

I've been going here for 3 years now, the staff is amazing and my confidence went from a 2 to a 10…read morein just a matter of months!! I definitely recommend coming!

My daughter joined North County Self Defense almost 2 years ago…read more This has been such an amazing journey watching her learn and make new friends. I am very Grateful for all the instructors for having such patience with my daughter. Especially when she has her meltdowns. They way they are able to help calm her and get her to rejoin class. I am so excited for everything she will continue to learn. A direct thank you to Sensei Robert Ellis for supporting my daughters needs and help with her growth.