I've been training with Shifu Jeremiah for over 3 months now. It has helped me get outside and stay…read moresane and active during Covid while learning valuable self defense skills. We wear masks and its very safe. Jeremiah has an insane amount of experience with many fight styles as you can see from the descrition. This is helpful because he can go thourhg and cherry pick the most effective styles and combinations that help you to stay safe against many realistic threats like knifes, sticks, guns, multiple opponents ect. I feel much more confident if I'm put in a situation where I'm fighting for my life or the lives of others, and I'm just getting started. Check it out for yourself!

I've been training for about four months now and I have been quite impressed. What convinced me to…read morestay was that my first class involved knife fighting. Next class, stick fighting; the class after that, how to throw someone to the ground and it goes on and on like that. Each class there is something new or reviewing something badass like flipping someone. This is very hands on martial arts street fight training. There are various techniques taught from various martial art styles. If you want to focus on a specific martial art style there are private lessons available. I'm bald, fat, and sixty years old and if I can take these classes you can too. Shifu Jeremiah is patient (and I have tested it) and will take the time it needs to give you the training and confidence you need to carry forward. If your on the fence, take a look around you and consider the world you live in. On my first day of class I learned how to parry a knife thrust and return the favor. Don't wait to be the next statistic, you are either a sheep, a wolf, or a sheepdog.

I first worked out with Tracey when she was working at my local gym. I was actually planning to…read morecancel my membership because I was getting bored with my gym workouts, but I signed up for one last class and Tracey was the sub. I had such a great workout with her that I decided to keep my membership specifically to take her classes. After a few weeks, however, she ended up leaving the gym to focus on HIIT the Mitt full-time so I finally quit and followed her. I've always wanted to give kickboxing a try but never found a place that I felt comfortable going to. 2-on-1 outdoor training sounded like the perfect way to give it a shot so I asked a friend to join me and we signed up for a 10-pack. What I love about Tracey is that her workouts are the perfect amount of challenging and fun. I need that balance to keep me motivated and committed to any workout routine. She's great at putting together a personalized, flexible workout that challenges you to get stronger but doesn't leave you feeling defeated or crappy about your current abilities and strength. She's very attentive and knows how to really push you to the next level but also knows when to ease up or slow down to let you catch your breath. On top of that, Tracey's highly knowledgeable -- it's easy to see from her own form, strength, and the way she coaches you or adjusts your form that she's had several years of formal training in martial arts and Muy Thai so not only are you getting a great workout but you're training with and learning from someone who's an expert. There are a lot of exercise/bootcamp/fitness options in SF but I definitely think HIIT the Mitt (and Tracey) really stands out. If you're looking for a new and exciting workout that leads to real results, I highly recommend HIIT the Mitt!

I have been a huge fan of HIIT the MITT since I started training with Tracey two years ago. Having…read moretried all the group/studio workouts in the area (e.g. Barry's, Rumble, etc), I was looking for something more personalized and versatile that was still fun. What makes HIIT the MITT special is that Tracey not only puts her time and attention into building your training program, but also keeps things interesting and fun with her playlists and attitude. Every full-body workout leaves me feeling like a bad ass and gives me something to look forward to. Training with HIIT the MITT has also been a saving grace for me during COVID. Tracey has adjusted my workouts to being socially distanced and very safe, which allows me to keep up my workouts even in such strange times. It has also been a fun excuse to get out of the house and head to the park for some fresh air. Highly recommend to anyone who is looking to improve their physical fitness, while having fun!

Short version: Omar changed my life too! His motivation and kindness have kept me physically (and…read morementally) in shape for over six years now. Omar is not only a phenomenally talented trainer, he is one of the most wonderful humans you could meet. Longer version: When we started, I was SUPER out of shape from working a very sedentary job. The inertia of having to plan workouts for myself was hard to overcome. Omar was incredibly patient and encouraging. Less than a year later, I was back at my college clothing sizes, and I blazed through a hike up Mt. Olympus in Greece. Since then, I've seen Omar twice a week, nearly every week. When COVID shutdowns happened, Omar easily switched to Zoom training. Thank goodness because I needed those workouts more than ever during those times. No matter if it is Zoom, or in person, working out with Omar is always fun, challenging, and something to look forward to. Everyone I know (including my best friend and also my sister) who has worked out with Omar has said the same.

Omar changed my life…read more I have always exercised (mostly running), so I started working with Omar just to learn how to box. That training was great, and he is so good at his work that we ultimately added in strength and conditioning training, mobility, and injury rehab and prevention. As a result, I became -- in my late 40s -- fitter than I had ever been. Omar is also just an incredibly good person. You can tell that he cares about helping people, and that makes him a great fit for anyone at any level of fitness.

Our daughter (7 years old) has been training at this martial arts school for over a year now, and I…read morecan honestly say it has been one of the most meaningful experiences of her childhood so far. When we first enrolled her, it was simply to introduce a new form of exercise and help build her confidence. But what we discovered was so much more than just a class--it became a place where she grew, matured, and found something she truly loves. From the very beginning, I noticed how happy she was every time she stepped onto the mat. Watching her focus so intensely during class and seeing how proud she was of her progress made my heart full. Her confidence has grown in ways I never expected, and the joy she brings home--even practicing on her own--shows how deeply this has resonated with her. One of the things that stands out the most is the incredible consistency and structure the dojo maintains. The principal and the foundation of this dojo are grounded in expectations that are strict, but completely reasonable. Students are expected to come prepared, stay focused, practice, and give their best. And what's remarkable is how the instructors carry that same tone throughout every session--firm, supportive, and unwavering in their commitment to holding each student accountable. This level of structure has helped our daughter thrive, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. Each Sensei is compassionate, attentive, and truly invested in each child. They all make sure each student receives equal attention, no matter their pace or personality. I love not only rooting for my own daughter but finding myself cheering for every child in the room. You can actually see them growing--not just in technique, but in kindness, courage, and respect for one another. What moves me the most is the culture Freestyle Martial Art has created. Yes, the kids compete with each other sometimes, but afterward they show such kindness and encouragement. They lift each other up. They celebrate each other's wins. They comfort each other's frustrations. That kind of environment isn't an accident--it's a direct reflection of the teaching, leadership, and values here. We are incredibly grateful for the impact this school has had on our daughter. Her confidence, her focus, her discipline, and her sense of pride have all blossomed because of this place. Watching her progress under such exceptional guidance has been a gift, and we look forward to seeing her continue to grow in this amazing community. If you're looking for a martial arts school that teaches more than just technique--one that shapes character, builds confidence, and creates a truly supportive culture--this is the place.

Great place for kids to learn martial arts. Mr. Miller is very patient with children. He teaches…read morekids to be respectful and to follow rules, but creates an environment that's fun for the kids. My son loves coming here!

Sensei Jason changed the name of his studio and moved locations, so I am moving my previous review…read morehere. I attended Jason's Women's self defense class for about four years. Its a great environment to learn self defense strategies while getting an amazing work out. And hitting a punching bag as hard as you can is just plain fun. Crescent kicks are my fav. I always felt like I was learning new things and challenging my body. Tackling floor bags and whaling on them never gets old. Sensei Jason is a great guy who pushes you just hard enough to make sure you are challenging yourself but at the same time makes sure you arent going to get hurt. He is stern but also caring. These classes are great for coordination, balance, and keeping your brain alert. This is a great alternative for someone like me who finds it hard to keep a regular work out schedule since I get bored so easily. I only wish he offered the self defense classes more than once a week! While I hope I never have to use the self defense skills I have learned from Jason, it means a lot to me that I have the training. I can live my life with confidence and self respect knowing I have the tools to defend myself from people much larger and stronger than myself. My boyfriend also took the Kempo classes with Jason and received his black belt. It helped him get into great shape and greatly improved his hand eye coordination. When we first started dating I didnt think he had an athletic bone in his body, and now I am constantly surprised and impressed at how much better he is at things like catching a football and throwing a frisbee. When we moved away he was really sad to lose Sensei Jason, and he has not been able to find any instructor in the two other states we have lived in anywhere close to his caliber. San Diego is lucky to have an instructor like Sensei Jason and we both miss our classes dearly.

Fantastic Martial Arts Instruction…read more My son has attended martial arts classes with Sensei Jason for over four years. Jason creates a sense of community in the dojo and he truly is invested in the character and physical development of his students. He is no pushover and he demands both respect and grit. He holds each student fully accountable for their actions, words and effort. He also knows that the hard work needs to be balanced with play as well. Jason's flexibility in moving to zoom classes as soon as Covid hit was a lifesaver for our family. The thrice weekly classes provided a routine, social outlet and a phenomenal workout for our now screen-based son. He would end each of his sessions smiling, breathing hard and drenched in sweat. Jason now holds outdoor Saturday classes which again is exactly what our son needed. I know Jason is eager to return to the dojo when it is safe to do so. My son says, "I LOVE doing martial arts with Sensei Jason. It is so fun because it's sort of in between work and play. It improves on your mental strength and physical strength. You learn so much and for me I feel it improves on my confidence. I would highly recommend it."

Very Family oriented. I feel comfortable with my kids here…read more Raquel is the owner and Mom and a super friendly and kind presence. I would poop here anytime.

I was able to drop in on the Sunday 10 AM gi class. I reached out via the contact from on the…read moreStronghold website and received a text in a very timely manner about my request to drop-in. The waiver and drop-in fee were also taken care of with Raquel prior to the class. Professor Johnny taught class; warm-ups, instruction/drills, positional sparring, then live rounds. There were only a few of us in the class, but everyone was extremely welcoming and very tough. Professor Johnny also participated in the positional and live rounds. It was a very good experience to be able to share the mats with someone so skilled and decorated. He put the hurting on everyone but did so in such a controlled and safe manner. Thank you for allowing me to train with you Stronghold!

The coaches are amazing and my daughters self confidence and grown so much. Can't ask for a better…read moreteam!

Great training environment and the professor is very on point with training and keeping it fun at…read morethe same time.

As a parent whose child has been training at this dojo for a while, I wanted to offer a different…read moreperspective from the one below. Sensei Sherry does have a very direct and no-nonsense personality, and I understand how that might come across as standoffish, especially over the phone. But in person, she is truly one of the most decent, grounded, and caring individuals I've ever met. She may have been firm if she felt there was confusion between Taekwondo and Karate--they are very different disciplines, and she's deeply committed to preserving the integrity of traditional Karate. In fact, that just shows she's not doing this for profit, but out of a true passion for Karate and a genuine love for the kids she teaches. She's barely making any money from the dojo, and honestly, customer service in the commercial sense isn't her priority. What she truly cares about is the growth, mindset, and character development of the students she works with. Sensei has taught my son so much more than just martial arts. She's helped him train his mind, build discipline, develop strong values, and learn what it means to have respect--for himself and for others. The impact she's had on his confidence and behavior has been nothing short of life-changing. Within just two years of training, he started earning medals from local Karate competitions, and now he's preparing for his first national competition! I'm incredibly proud of him, but even more grateful for the amazing sensei guiding him on this journey. I would really encourage you to visit the dojo and try out a class or two in person before making a final decision. It's hard to get a full sense of someone's heart and character over the phone. Once you see her in action with the students, I believe you'll come to see that she is truly one of the best--and for the level of dedication and mentorship she provides, her fees are more than reasonable. Wishing you and your daughter the very best on your martial arts journey--wherever it may lead!

Sensei Sherry and Sensei Alanna are amazing teachers and they create a caring and tough family like…read moreenvironment. My husband and I combined have lost over 110lbs over the year thanks to the great work out, motivation, and positive reinforcement. Our son is also becoming stronger, more confident, and has made great new friends!