I trained at BETA Academy for the summer while working in D.C., and I can't recommend it enough…read more The coaching is technical and detail-oriented, the training partners are welcoming at every level, and the room has a genuinely friendly culture with zero ego. Classes are well-structured whether you're drilling fundamentals or looking for hard rounds, and the facility itself is clean and well-kept. The front desk and staff were also great to work with from sign-up to my last day. If you're in D.C., this is the place to train. I'll be back next summer.

I was only here for a week, but this place has been amazing. Keep in mind that this location is one…read moreof the few places I would confidently recommend to anyone who is serious about training in Muay Thai, Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, and overall physical fitness. I'm from Chandler, Arizona, and I train at a different facility back home. Even so, I was surprised by how familiar and welcoming this location felt from the moment I walked in. The atmosphere reminded me of the kind of environment you hope to find in a high-quality gym--serious training, but with great people and positive energy. The people here are solid. Everyone I met was respectful, hardworking, and focused on improving their craft. That kind of environment makes a big difference when you're training, because the culture of a gym can push you to become better every day. The energy in the room is strong. Whether you're a beginner or someone who has been training for years, you feel motivated to work harder. There's a real sense of discipline and camaraderie that makes training enjoyable but also challenging in the best way. Another thing that stood out to me was how clean and organized the facility is. A clean training environment shows professionalism and respect for the athletes who train there. On top of that, the coaches and fighters here are high-ranking professionals. Many of them are top-level athletes and active competitors, which means you're learning from people who truly understand the sport and what it takes to

My background is in karate, so when I began training with Ben, his particular style of Wing Chun…read morethat incorporates pressure blew me away! I have really enjoyed taking a completely different perspective on my martial arts training, learning to deal with an attacker who is large and close simply by leveraging my own body structure. Ben and his senior students are extremely encouraging and supportive, so the classes have a real community atmosphere. I wholeheartedly recommend you take a class, whether you are a lifelong martial artist or absolute beginner.

I've trained in a number of different martial arts, including boxing, muay thai, and other forms of…read morewing chun, but Ben's blended approach and focus on structure has been a whole new level of practice for me. I've never really understood or believed in the application of internal power for practical use but, after one session of chi sao with Ben (and being thrown into a wall a few times), I had to concede that there was something real there. One thing I've always appreciated is that Ben is very clear where Wing Chun does and doesn't work. He teaches boxing, wrestling, and some MMA, but always in the context of where Wing Chun fits in. Full disclosure, this is not for everyone; it's not a quick fix, it's not a cardio workout, and it's not showy. This is a long process of understanding internal structure, physics, and how to exert your body in a different way than you're used to. If you're interested in gaining a new understanding of your own body and how to weaponise your posture (yes, posture can be a weapon), give it a try. Or, if you think this isn't real and doesn't work, come and try it anyway. The only way to know is try it out and we're always ready to welcome people with an open or curious appetite.

This is a hidden gem of martial arts studios that genuinely cares about tradition. I took a long…read moretime to sign on to a studio and was happy to find Sensei Hunter. (I definitely wanted to avoid taking my kids to a studio that use splashy stock photos or advertises kid's birthday parties or parents night off events.) I loved the smaller class sizes of Samurai Training Academy which allowed for Sensei Hunter to break down complex moves into their fundamental components. I loved that the studio had adult classes and was not just a dojo daycare. I loved that they did not pass all students for their belt testing. All good signs of a studio with integrity, which sadly, is more difficult to find these days. Sensei Hunter won over the kids with his irreverent sense of humor, his kindness, and his deep love for sharing his practice with his students. My son looks forward to every single class (even going embarrassingly early to classes just so that he could absorb as much as he could from his instructor).

From the owner: Karate, Jujutsu, Sword, Kendo, Kids Karate, Women's Self Defense, Police Self Defense and control…read moretactics

I came to N-Flux to find a hobby and ended up finding a passion and a home away from home. Yes,…read moreit's a gym, and the new facility in the bottom level of 1722 I Street will blow your mind with all the new equipment and toys (no more stripper poles, just tons of mats, gloves, pads and other goodies). But more importantly, this place is a community. N-Flux has the best instructors and classes you will find anywhere in DC if you're interested in taking Krav Maga, Jiu Jitsu, Boxing, and all sorts of other martial arts and combat sports. Chris and Colleen are the best instructors I've ever seen. They don't just want you to get skills, they teach concepts, conditioning, and character. Part of the training is how to be a good classmate, and experienced students help newer students and welcome new people. As a result, you're not just coming for a workout, you walk away welcomed and encouraged to be the best you can be -in everything. The classes are challenging in the best way, even their Yoga classes (and I hated yoga before I took N-Flux yoga with the amazing Scott and Maicie!). Chris and Colleen are tough and push you to be your best. Since starting, I've lost 25 pounds, gained 25 new friends, and according to my work colleagues, "am the happiest I've ever been." This place is way more than a gym and you won't know what you're missing until you come try it for yourself.

If you are into Krav Maga, then this is the place for you. It is a small studio on the top floor of…read morea small building that is only accessible by way of a small elevator. But once inside it does not feel small at all. As a matter of fact you forget everything other than the class as even the beginner classes are intense. You come here to learn to fight and defend yourself. It's intense, it hard, and sometimes it hurts. But if you want to sweat, get a hell of a workout and kick some ass, then this is the place to be.

After my first class I had doubts about whether I should learn Krav Maga under Brian or should I…read morereturn to Nova MMA where I took three classes in the past. In Nova MMA, I got to actually hit and learn combinations right away. As for Krav Maga Federation, you won't get to this until you pass your beginner test to the yellow belt. That being said, I do not regret sticking to KMF and not learning under a different instructor. After a few classes you actually realize that learning combinations and hitting stuff might not be the best idea because your form is awful and needs some serious work. Our classes are usually small, so Brian will give you a lot of attention. Even if you are standing in the back, Brian will see you and pick on you until you get the form right. Now, speaking about Brian. He is really patient with us. He will ask us after showing a new move or re-showing us a new move, if we have any question. If we do, he will answer the question regardless of how repetitive the question is or how ridiculous it might be. I haven't done any martial arts since I was a child and I didn't think I'd do again because I hated every instructor I had when I was a kid. That's different with Brian. However, Brian is a bit strict. He will not allow people to practice if they show up after hours. Keep that in mind when you are signing up for classes. If you are not sure you can make the times then talk with Brian or figure out a way to show up on time. Most of the class usually shows up fifteen minutes early to warm up and stretch and sometimes one will go over a move with Brian. I would definitely recommend KMF for anyone who is looking to learn Krav Maga.

I have over 10 years of martial arts experience in Hapkido, Judo and Taekwando, and must say, Krav…read moreMaga is the most practical thing I've tried. As the other reviews and Wikipedia state (check them for a more in depth description of the art), most martial arts teach based on some rules of fighting -- no groin shots, biting, etc. Krav Maga is all about training you to survive a dangerous situation, and consequently relishes these taboo techniques. It is all about developing your muscle memory and instincts so that, when it really counts, you avoid the deer-in-headlights effect. Ditto for speed/aggression: other martial arts focus on control and fundamentals for years before you get to anything practical. In my experience with Krav Maga, it starts with practicality from the get-go, and control, respect, technical excellence come as a by-product. This brings me to my first critique. I don't feel like people have developed the proper amount of control for the level of techniques we do. On our tests we are supposed to go a full speed and stop right before striking your partner. Yet I can't say that I'm totally confident that I won't get hurt as I train with some of the others. In contrast, I'd trust my Hapkido partners with a full speed spin heel kick to the head. This is probably a difference in philosophy between the Korean martial arts and Krav Maga, and shouldn't be seen as a critique of Krav Maga Federation DC. Likewise with technical excellence. If you want a pretty kick, a beautiful throw, a quiet roll, look elsewhere. If you want a spiritual, cultural, or historic connection to your martial art, Krav Maga probably isn't the best art for you. But if you want to learn how to defend yourself in a practical situation, period, Krav Maga is a go. On that note, Brian, the instructor, is really a great guy, a good teacher, and a skilled practitioner. He's a bit rough around the edges and intimidating at first (don't think about showing up late), but just stick it out and it will pay in spades after a few weeks of training. He's one of the most friendly and dedicated instructors I've had, once I got to know him. Krav Maga Federation DC is also associated closely with Krav Maga Federation, which is based in lower Manhattan and is a powerhouse organisation. I've gone there twice now, had wonderful workouts, played with world experts, and been welcomed as a member of the family (except that one time that Rhon laid into me). All in all I really like this club. If you are not a dainty flower or a meathead you will too. Actually, if you are a dainty flower come anyway. In short time you will not be.

Trained here for almost four years and was approaching my shodan test. I used to think of aikido as…read moremy organizing principle. That all changed when a third-degree black belt instructor dropped me on my head. He was showing off for his buddy, the chief instructor. Both those men are no longer at this dojo, but regardless I cannot train any more as I used to - following my concussion, I tried to come back (after time off for recuperation). But after weeks/months of headaches, and trying various sorts of accommodations, my doctor strongly recommended that I discontinue training. Aikido may be called the "art of peace" and its practitioners may say that good ukemi will neutralize any throw. But it is still possible for a careless person to injure you badly. I used to think (see my previous review) that if I spoke up, was careful about whom I trained with, and practiced diligently, it would protect me from harm. Not true. Being a good driver does not always save you from the bad drivers. (I decided to update my old review, after much time and thought, so that newcomers will have a more complete picture. It's hard to ask questions of people who have left.) As with any endeavor: caveat emptor. Do your research. Visit multiple places and compare them, before you choose. Ask around - what is the reputation of the place you are considering? What is their record for follow-up when someone gets injured? How long have the most senior students been training at this place? Are classes made up of mostly newbies - i.e., does the student body turn over regularly, or are there a lot of stalwarts? How many black belts come to practice regularly? (an indication of whether the place continues to offer room for growth, once that first black belt has been attained). How often is the chief instructor present and instructing? What precautions are in place when junior (smaller/younger/inexperienced) students train with senior (stronger/faster/aggressive) students? How long has each teacher been teaching? (Being a skilled practitioner is not always the same as being a good teacher.) Pick your partners (and teachers) carefully. (Even if everyone says "but he's such a nice guy!" - if you break a collarbone because he attempted a too-ambitious throw, you will be the one in a sling, not the nice guy.) How often does the dojo host community events? Do senior staff/teachers show up for community events? I have visited from time to time. (I still hang out socially with many friends from here.) With all my heart I still miss the practice and the community I used to have. But I have had to step back from both.

NEEDED to find a social outlet for my 5-year old grandson while he is on an extended visit from out…read moreof state. NEEDED to find a safe, social, in-person way for him to spend time and energy with little people his own size. So perfectly pleased to have found DC Aikido --- perfect fit. He was hooked from the first class. 3x a week - in the dojo - with 30 minute sessions is exactly the right prescription. Right across the street from the Red Line Metro --- and free parking garage for drivers like us. The most important part: The instructors are amazing. Patient like saints but with an eye toward discipline. Great instruction at the 5-6 year old level mixed with discipline and exercise. The classes are very disciplined for spacing, too --- all of the students and staff are good about wearing their masks and keeping the students on "their own square" to keep social distance norms intact. So sorry my grandson is going home at the end of this month. Thank you, DC Aikido!

FCS Kali is highly modular art as developed by Tuhon Ray and taught by Regional Instructor…read moreMosi--all of the techniques we practice: stick, knife, sword and empty hand are all interconnected--everything you learn for one medium is transferable to the others. The group is dedicated, welcoming and mutually supportive. Mosi is highly dedicated to the art and to his students. I appreciate having this outlet to improve myself and to interact with some really great people. The class provides a safe environment for developing skills. If you have previous martial arts experience, this will give you another perspective. If you have no previous training, this is a good way to start.

From the owner: FMA (Filipino Martial Arts) training in the heart of our Nation's capitol!…read more DC Kali is the official DC Metro area training group for FCS Kali. Our curriculum includes knifes, swords, stick-fighting, striking, and grappling; but we place a special emphasis on edged weapons. Our aim is to train hard, learn some sound defense strategies, and make friends along the way. Founded by Tuhon Ray Dionaldo, Filipino Combat Systems (FCS) is an organization dedicated the preservation and promotion of all Filipino Martial Arts. FCS is an organization with members from around the world which is based on Tuhon Ray Dionaldo's over 35 years of practicing various FMA styles from Modern Arnis, Pekiti Tirsia, Sayoc Kali, and many more. He's combine elements of each, into one system that's efficient, fast, concise, and logical. FCS members have extremely diverse backgrounds, and Martial Arts systems. We've all come together because of our love of the Filipino Martial Arts, and our unwillingness to become involved in the politics that has so often stifled our growth. Disciplines of FCS includes single or double stick, single or double blade, empty hands combat, and sword & dagger.

I met Mario many years ago and he first invited me to train, though back then I had injuries which…read moreI never thought I would train jitsu...I first came in 3 years ago to start training but between injuries and my mental health battle we parted ways .I just wanted to thank everyone at the Yamasaki gym but especially Fernando, Oscar, Elaine, Jessica, and Enzo (also Mario in spirit) for being so patient with me as I tried to use their gym as a positive coping mechanism for my mental health. God bless you all. I do not train there anymore but think it's a great gym for anyone to train, as they were all great people. Thanks for investing the time in me when I was not myself mentally. OSS.

Best BJJ academy. They preserve the roots of the culture and the traditions of the martial arts.read more

https://youtu.be/g90i2epDE8U…read more I just completed the 3 week course with Sifu Michael Speights! Learning from him is more then learning an form of self defense, learning from him increase OVERALL self improvement! You body and mind will be inspired and tested as you learn one of China's greatest art forms. He's the real deal, and his teacher was taught by the REAL MASTER YIP MAN. I am humbled, and eager to continue.

Sifu Mike is a very knowledgeable. His genuine enthusiasm for Wing Chun makes him a great teacher…read more With him YOU WILL WORK HARD and become an overall better person in the process.

I love this place. I…read moremoved here from Denver for a job and the first thing I did was look for a Muay Thai gym recommendation, and this was the gym that was recommended. It was so important to me that I even chose my house to be close to this gym. When I got here it did not disappoint. Almost immediately I met kru Jom who has since taken my Muay Thai to the best level. To be completely honest, I move with a lot of Ego. I thought I had to be fast , strong, and impressive in order to be "good at martial arts" and kru Jom called me out immediately. "Sahira, I need you move more. Too tense" and "Sahira, I need you play more". In the 5 month I've been working with Kru Jom I've become more playful and relaxed in my motion, which is also translating into my regular life. Anger issues have noticeable decreased and I find myself applying Kru Jom's life philosophy into my healing practice as well (I'm a chiropractor). Kru Jom is my guy, and the entire gym holds excellent standards and requires high levels of discipline from me, which is the environment I thrive best in. "Train. Win. Repeat." is our motto, and it holds true both in the gym and outside of the gym. If you want friends to sweat with, play with, and get better with, this is the place for you. Oh, and we have a cold plunge and sauna as well as an entire boxing ring. The amenities are great, and the community is better.

I was in the area for work and did a drop-in bjj class at Pentagon MMA. Everyone was extremely…read morewelcoming and there were a lot of tough rounds! The gym is beautiful and has everything you need (showers, weights, plenty of mat space). Highly recommend! If youre in the DC-area definitely check them out!