My son attended this dojo for over a year, consistently showing up and putting in effort. Despite…read morehis commitment, he was never promoted, even to half yellow, while I noticed other kids who attended less frequently or who seemed less focused did receive promotions. According to their online system, my child had about 68 hours of verified instruction, yet still no advancement. From what I observed, promotions sometimes appeared to happen faster for children whose parents were more involved in dojo activities outside of class. For example, I saw families volunteering their time or providing other support, and those children seemed to advance more quickly. In my case, we were not involved in those types of activities, and I couldn't help but wonder if that played a role. Behavior standards also seemed inconsistent. I witnessed my son being told his behavior was a reason for not advancing, yet other children -- including some who were regularly reminded to focus or who disrupted class -- were promoted. At the same time, I often saw my son working hard, staying engaged, and following instructions. I'm not the only parent that felt this way either. There were also some teaching methods I personally felt uncomfortable with. For instance, I once heard comments directed at kids, such as calling them lazy, that struck me as discouraging rather than constructive. While some families may see this as tough coaching, it didn't align with what I wanted for my child. In the end, I felt the promotion process was unclear and discouraging for my son. Eventually, I decided it was time to move on. This is just my personal experience, but I think other families may want to carefully consider whether this dojo's style and values are the right fit for their child.

I have been attending EBJI since 1999 at age 7 as a white belt (beginner). Since then I have…read morevisited many dojos around the country and on 4 continents and achieved 3rd degree black belt. EBJI is a unique dojo, and one that upholds the traditions of Judo and Japanese culture. Their moto of "building good people through Judo" is an understatement I've witnessed firsthand. I have had the privilege of seeing peers and myself grow. From originally attending the kids class, where the focus is on exercise, good manners, and safe falls (which saved me from broken bones outside of the dojo growing up), to intermediate and adult classes where Judo skills are built upon, community and giving-back is fostered, and a complete person, both inside and outside of the dojo, is born. The adult advanced class focuses on competition and Judo techniques while the adult beginners class focuses on the recreation of Judo for all ages ranging from 20s to 60+. EBJI has a history of athletes who have competed in the olympics, coached olympians and MMA fighters, and olympic level referees. But they also have a history of successful entrepreneurs, parents, first responders, educators and more. I am thankful to have experienced and been part of this dojo. I cannot recommend giving EBJI a try highly enough, both for your child and yourself!

Throw Roll Tumble…read more Fall This is one of the best places to learn this humble yet effective art in the bay area. Students of all shapes, sizes,ages and from all walks of life are treated exactly the same here and all are taught the precise moves with loving care and joy. The instructors and sub instructors are so attentive, caring and skillful here. Yet they have so much patience and temperament in helping those who are just starting down the path of learning. What I love about this place is that it is not the robotic crank em out type of place. Instead it is humble and peaceful. Each instructor and student work toward the same common goal of development. One never has to feel as though they are doing poorly or can't keep or dazed and confused because these people love what they do and helping, teaching, perfecting and showing you a hundred times is all done with a smile and a ton of encouragement! According to the Aikido foundation "Aikido is a Budo (martial art) created by Morihei Ueshiba. After the Founder's passing in 1969, his son Kisshomaru Ueshiba was inaugurated as Aikido Doshu. At present, Moriteru Ueshiba, grandson of the Founder, has succeeded his father as Aikido Doshu. The Aikikai Foundation, officially recognized by the Japanese government in 1940, was founded in order to preserve and promote the ideals of the true Aikido created by the Founder. As the Aikido World Headquarters, it is the parent organization for the development and expansion of Aikido throughout the world." The Berkeley Aikikai is the headquarters of Aikido Un En Kai which is directly affiliated with the Aikido Hombu Dojo , Tokyo, Japan. In the Berkeley location main people are: Advisor: I. Shibata, 7th dan, Shihan. who is also the director of Aikido Un En Kai The Chief Instructor: is Marianne Shibata, 6th dan, Shidoin. --She is awesome. So if you have interest in this great art feel free to visit as visitors are welcome to observe.

My body has matured a lot from practicing here, and incidentally, so has my mind…read more When I first started here, it was interesting how we had to walk down the hallway to go into the dojo. Unlike other martial arts places, there is no front window that lets people peer inside and see what we are doing. It helps to cultivate a spirit of mutual respect between people, the spectators and the practitioners. As for the art itself, aikido isn't easy to master no matter where you go. It isn't a series of scoring points by punching and kicking, or of potentially breaking bones because you blocked too hard. Instead, it is learning to turn the energy of the attack from your partner against them. It is an art of enlarging your awareness of space (larger opponent needs much less distance to attack), time (don't dawdle too long), and intent (be ready to shift your movement and center depending on where the energy is going). A beginner will spend a lot of their time break-falling and taking ukemi (being the recipient of either a throwing or a pinning technique). The kind of break-falls you learn is complex and goes beyond just remembering not to land on your wrist.

Hanshi Sharifi is a gem in the Shotokan world. He trained under Hidetaka Nishiyama, a student of…read moreShotokan founder Gichin Funakoshi. His unique blend of Iranian heritage, karate, Qi Gong, and Sufism, means every training offers new insights to young, old, and in-between! I offer my humble perspective from a karate journey that began as a green belt in Wado Ryu under Hidetaka Abe sensei. I received my Shodan from sensei Frank Hashimoto of the JKA in 1984, and after a 20 + year break, I found Hanshi Sharifi in 2007. Starting over as a white belt was hard for me, but in retrospect, was a wise decision on Hanshi's part. I have my Yondan now, and continue to train with Hanshi Sharifi. I am not exaggerating when I say I learn something new every time I have the privilege of stepping into his dojo. Please visit us at The Church on the Corner in Albany to experience Shotokan karate in its traditional form!

I've been studying with Sensei Sharifi since 1989, and he still teaches every class himself. This…read moreis not squishy Berkeley martial arts-- we work hard!-- but I really appreciate Sensei's empahsis on karate as a means-to-an-end where the end is spiritual development. As if becoming a better karate practicioner is simply a good way to become a better human being. But thankfully he doesn't say things like this in class-- while he's hassling you about your sloppy technique, it's clear his underlying goal is self-improvement, not just knowing where to put your fist or foot. Sensei Sharifi clearly loves his students and loves what he does. He's especially good with kids... as close to Mr Miyagi as you're going to find. :-) Not a lot of sparring until you get to higher belts, but if you like working on mental and physical focus through practice (and more practice, and more practice) this is a good place.

Hanabi Judo has been a fantastic experience for our family. We moved from abroad and Hanabi…read morewelcomed us in with open arms, working with my son to feel comfortable and confident. Dan Sensie is accomodating, always available to give families and kids the individual support and attention they need, and runs a dojo that is warm and community-centric while still maintaining the highest level of discipline and professionalism. We have watched my son grow stronger and improve his skills and practice, while working hard and enjoying himself!

Great experience talking to the owner about conditioning my older body, safety and learning how to…read morefall. Obviously his focus on children is important for the future, but he has great wisdom for us older folks as well.and a special session Tuesday nights for the more mature.

We've been attending this Judo club for the past 2 1/2 years, and I can confidently say it's the…read morebest investment we've made for our kids. The program is top-notch, with little kids practicing three times a week and older kids practicing five times a week. It's been amazing to watch our children grow in both skill and confidence through the sport. The coach is exceptional -- highly skilled, patient, and genuinely invested in each child's development. He foster a positive and encouraging environment, helping kids not only learn judo but also build discipline, respect, and teamwork. My kids have gained so much from their time here, and we've seen improvements in their fitness, focus, and overall attitude. Whether your child is a beginner or more advanced, this club offers the perfect balance of challenge and support. Highly recommend this judo club to any family in the Bay Area looking for a structured, fun, and impactful sport for their kids. It's been an incredible experience for our family! So thankful for coach Mr. Munkhbayasgalan. We are so glad he is teaching and guiding my kids to learn judo.

Mongolian Judo!! As far as I know this is the only mongolian Judo in the United States. We were…read morelucky enough to be invited here for a Saturday evening Judo work out. What an amazing workout. My kids have been doing Judo for years, and this was the toughest workout they've ever had. Dordjerem 'Mugi' Munkhbayasgalan is a 4th degree black belt in Judo as well as a black belt in Jiujitsu. He trained with the Mongolian Olympic team and is an MMA fighter. It shows in how he drives the kids. The whole class was in taught in Mongolian. My kids had to just follow the other kids lead. It was exciting to watch. The class started out with Uchi Komis. Then some training techniques. After that, they spent 1 hour doing Newaza in 3 minute intervals. There were abit 30 kids and my kids were out-matched. The Mongolian kids worked my kids into the ground. They showed perfect technique and barely worked up a sweat. After Newaza, the class did Randori for 1 hour. Our kids were pouring sweat. It was truly amazing to witness. At the end of class, they dropped ropes from the ceiling and kids climbed. A nice touch was after class, all the kid sat around and talked or played for 30 minutes. My kids really enjoyed that. I must say, if your kids are driven and want to be the Best, Mugi will get them there.

Master Pitts is an amazing teacher. In addition to his skill at working with all age levels…read more(toddler through adult), he has so much patience in working with the kids. My children started with him when they were 3, and they were so wiggly and had never been in a structured learning setting prior to starting with Master Pitts. His instruction was wonderful, and my kids loved going to classes. In addition, the community of students and families connected to the Academy was so warm and welcoming. I started taking my own classes not too long after, and I had a great experience, too. Unfortunately we moved far away, but I still miss Master Pitts and the community of martial artists he nurtured.

This place is a gem! And Master Pitts is a one-of-a-kind martial arts instructor! It's obvious he…read moregenuinely cares about each and every student. I've walked by this dojo many times on my way to yoga. I remember seeing small groups of kids classes here and Master Pitts always seemed really nice. When my son turned 3yrs old and started to be able to follow instructions a little better, this was the first place I wanted to check out for classes. My husband and I stopped by one evening to ask about the Little Ninja class and paid to do a one time drop in class to see if our son would connect to it. Boy are we happy we did because my son LOVES THIS CLASS. My favorite thing about this place is Master Pitts' commitment to instilling confidence and integrity in the kids. The first thing they are instructed to do upon entry of every class is to shout "I will do my best!" Before they leave, they shout "I did my best!" This alone is priceless. If your little one is shy or not very confident, this is a safe and caring space to help them build their self esteem. Classes vary a little each time so the kids stay interested and engaged. They learn to stretch, kick, and punch. Most importantly, they practice listening and following instructions. Every class ends with each student shaking hands with one another and saying "courtesy and respect." If your kid is on the younger side like mine (under 4 or 5yrs old), expect to get up from the sidelines to help them. Master Pitts is also great about going around to help the kids individually and there is always a second instructor who helps as well. I highly recommend this place for kids. If you can't take my word for it, bring your kid in to do a drop-in class and you'll see for yourself just how AMAZING Master Pitts is with children.

Sensei is amazing! She is really kind to the kids and my son can't wait to go to her weekly…read moreclasses!!! She is patient and always teaches the kids about being thankful. Amazing experience here.

After witnessing how incredibly supportive aikido was for my mental health, I visited dojos all…read moreover the East Bay to find one that felt like home. I've been at Aikido of Berkeley for three years now, finding just what I needed. Kayla Feder Sensei is a master teacher - inviting me to practice with precision while being warm and humble. A rare combination in martial arts! Also unique about this dojo is how much the students show up for one another outside of aikido - celebrating, collaborating creatively, helping each other move, even watching my cat! I feel very, very grateful to have this spiritual community.

Our son goes to LCCT San Pablo. I cannot say enough about Coach Kola Ajose. He coaches with heart,…read moretrue and sincere. His focus and attention on the kids is like none other. When they roll, there is a coach watching each set of kids while the other kids line up and observe. Their focus is technique and not winning. The kids are kept in check not running around and acting out. It is all about respect and focus. These kids follow Coach Kola around during competition while he coaches others. Their love and respect for him is not just as a coach, but as a person. Kola not only teaches the kids Jiu Jitsu but good values in life, good character, doing good things at home to help parents, doing good in school. Kola will show up at competitions not just to coach his own LCCT team but to coach and support friends from past dojos, former teammates or friends. LCCT San Pablo is well worth your money and time.

Not sure WHY my last review was taken off as an acceptable review but here it goes again. I LOVE…read moreTHIS PLACE. It's like my home away from home here. I have been coming here with my son for 2 years now. The instructors truly do care for the kids (and adults). I have been to many martial arts schools over the years as a child and as an adult. This is one of the few who actually care about the children's school work as well as their training.