Bob White&#x27;s Karate Studio

(13 reviews)

2.0 mi

I first saw the USSD demo team perform at a local event and I was left super impressed by the demo…read moreteam, which consisted of all youth. I was also drawn in by the sensei as she was incredibly nice, but yet respect she was given by the students show great discipline. I walked into the dojo with my 3 year old and the rest was history. Arya is 4 now and has been a part of this great family for 1 now with her yellow belt and growing wiring martial arts in every session. This is what the DOJO is. A family. Thank you USSD for embracing us and for nurturing a great sense of confidence in our little Arya. She loves her Dojo and so do we.

Great family friendly dojo. My kids love it here and the staff are amazing!! The class schedules…read morework well with our family demands and our kids have developed great self defense skills, confidence, and bonds with their dojo mates. Highly recommend.

Arya the day she earned and received her yellow belt

Arriving at a tournament in Fullerton Ca.

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After Belt testing.

Art of Jiu Jitsu

CHECK YOUR CREDIT CARD STATEMENT - this gym will re-activate your cancelation and then offer you…read more"credit" to continue at their gym. A Really Good Thing about this gym is that you get preferential treatment if you speak Portuguese. Other than this, it is a GREAT studio if you are pushing your child toward competitions.

As the grandparents for our 6-year-old grandchild, we wish to register our 1000% support and…read moreappreciation for the classes my grandson has enrolled in at your AOJ Costa Mesa facility. Under the strong guidance and leadership of coaches Leo and Caro, we have noticed our grandson grow on so many levels that we believe are attributable to his classes. There are too many attributes to even list, but his ability to listen, focus, and of course be a kind warrior is truly remarkable. Coach Leo and Coach Caro are truly fantastic teachers and role models, and we wish to thank you for contributing to his growth and maturation. Job well done!

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Tajik Karate Academy

I highly recommend Tajik Karate Academy if you are looking for a friendly environment to take…read moreKarate classes. With my experience, it's a great atmosphere and a lot of fun. Amazing workout.

Both my kiddos entered Tajik Karate Academy different time frames and each reach different belt…read morelevel as of this day. I must said: Sensei was truly awesome with the kids. He shows a compassionate and dedication with good sense of humors. His good heart straighten all kids distraction and involving everyone to participate in the daily lesson. I watched both of my kiddos getting not just stronger but more discipline and confident approaching others. Although no discount for 2nd kiddos, it's still worth the investment to gain positive characters from each kiddos. Location is nice and clean near restaurants and stores. Time are flexible if we miss a class. Overall, TKA is an awesome place. Keep up the good work Sensei.

Tajik Karate Academy

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Tajik Karate Academy

United Studios Of Self Defense Newport Beach

(25 reviews)

4.7 mi

This dojo, the other students and the senseis have been a second home and family to my son. Not…read moreonly is he learning a martial art but he has also gained confidence. He just earned his blue green stripe belt from USSD. Semsei Jerod and Sensei Greg helped make this possible.

Very knowledgeable and helpful. We've been going since Covid shut things down. My kids have…read moreadvanced ranks and have enjoyed the private lessons and STORM program too.

Super focus

Working on the sidekick

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USSD Karate Irvine

(40 reviews)

9.2 mi

The senseis at Karate Irvine have done a fantastic job training my children. My kids started their…read morelessons about a year ago and have progressed immensely from the direction of their sensei and the dojo. They start out like everyone else with white belts, and have progressed to their current orange belts. I like that they have their weekly private lessons where they can learn the various forms, techniques, and get very technical in their practice. The more direct teachings from the private lesson help them develop their skills while the dojo also holds daily group classes. These classes occur throughout the week as well as Saturdays, and while I try my best to take them in to as many during the week as possible I'm not always able to bring my kids in. During these group classes they get to exercise and work on some group activities, such as group sparring, or punches and kicks on the pads. The senseis all know my kids by name and are very approachable, as well as when we could not make it to our private lessons due to vacation or illness we have always been able to request for a make up class and they are very accommodating with the rescheduling. If you're interested in putting your child into karate but are unsure if your kid is a good match, they do have trials which they will spend a few minutes with your child and work through a short private lesson to gauge their interest. Also, while my kids are not in tournaments, be aware you will have to invest a bit into their growth with sparring gear, outfit, and maybe the occasional long trip to a tournament.

A warm, neighborly team that truly cares and gives far more than they sell. After an unsettling…read moreencounter with a man in public that left me feeling unsafe, I began seriously exploring different self-defense options, including jiu-jitsu. I tried several gyms, but ultimately chose USSD Irvine Northwood because their program blends multiple martial arts styles and focuses on practical, tactical self-defense. Everything I've learned so far has been incredibly useful, and the instructors have been supportive every step of the way. I'm genuinely grateful to have found such a friendly, welcoming community.

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Fit Defense

(16 reviews)

2.2 mi

Fit defense is the right fit. Pun intended. I wanna say that I found them through $40 for 4 hours…read moreof kid free date night. Gonna be honest. Every 3 months they offer ninja night. They do obstacles and eat pizza and socialize. But then I saw my son really click with Tyson! Tons of the local kids come here and it's very comfortable. The one and one trainings have been a plus. Along with the group trainings for kids 6 and up. My son has been so focused and has been going at his own speed. Their membership prices is the best around for what they offer. I would def recommend them!! You won't be let down. My son is a orange belt and looks forward to his classes.

Fit defense is an amazing studio to learn all kinds of martial arts. I come for practical self…read moredefense (individual lessons so far), and Sensei Tyson is such a good instructor. I've trained extensively in Tae Kwon Do before I came to Fit Defense, and based on my past experience Fit Defense greatly surpasses my expectations. Tyson takes his knowledge of a plethora of of martial arts and boils it down to what's practical. His lessons are just enough information to remember everything, but not too much overwhelm. He is extremely well-versed in all styles of self-defense and always seeking to improve and learn more. He uses a punching bag, Bob, focus mitts, weapons, and other ways to instruct to his maximum potential. Since he is constantly building on his own knowledge, he constantly learns and teaches new techniques and forms. Fit defense also has a variety of classes, from karate for kids to practical self defense for adults. Not to mention the prices. Fit Defense won't break the bank and you'll definitely get your money's worth! Take it from me.

Owner and chief instructor

Tactical Weapon training

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Krav Maga XD

(71 reviews)

1.4 mi

I had always wanted to take a self defense class and had seen great reviews about Justin and this…read morestudio. My girlfriend and I attended a class and it was really fun! Justin and the other participants in the class were really welcoming and helpful in giving us tips on form and technique. We are definitely going to be returning!

Was very impressed with my recent Krav Maga course taught by Joey and Justin. Just the right…read morebalance of foundational information, skills development, scenario practice, and real life impact of combatant choices. The instructors read the room very well in terms of when they needed to change the pacing.

First class!

Krav Maga Costa Mesa

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Butokuden Martial Arts Training Center

(5 reviews)

6.8 mi

I started kendo at Butokuden nearly two years ago, and I could not be happier. I give Butokuden…read moresole credit for developing my love for kendo because of the quality of instruction, positive atmosphere, and incredible facility. From the curious mind who wants to learn more about the sport to the seasoned kenshi, this place is a great place to develop yourself, improve your skills, and have a fantastic time doing so. The instructors are world-class but still down-to-earth, and everyone at the dojo is genuinely nice and helpful, which really helped me gain confidence when I was a timid beginner. And what other sport can you do that encourages you to scream as loud as you can. At first it feels strange, but it's such great stress relief! Along with the adult class I attend, there are two kids' classes that precede it. From sitting in on several of the kids' classes, it is obvious that kendo is great for them because it helps instill in them the virtues of discipline, honor, confidence, and perseverance. The kids class is intense, but I have never seen a group of kids so eager to learn, respectful, and grateful for the opportunity to learn the sport. I can't say enough great things about this place. The people are great and I always have a blast in class. So come check it out!

This review is for the E-Bogu warehouse and not the Dojo. I found E-Bogu when I was looking for a…read moreKendogi, after finally reaching a point where my sensei(s) told me to get one. E-Bogu was significantly cheaper then the supplier in my part of town and the reviews of their products were all very high. The store is really just the warehouse for the website (there is no show room) but they have staff to assist you. I went to the warehouse so I could get the proper sizes as that is always an issue when ordering online, which was a good idea since their sizing chart would have given me a keikogi that was too small in the chest (thankfully the lady helping me immediately saw that and got me a better size). All in all it was a good experience and for the price of one uniform at my local supplier I got two from E-Bogu. When I comes time to get my Bogu I think I'll be driving out to Irvine again.

Kancho Ariga Sensei, with Irvine Mayor Mr. Kang.

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United Studios of Self Defense

(13 reviews)

11.5 mi

I was looking for a marital arts studio that my 6 year old son could join during the pandemic. I…read morestumbled upon USSD on Facebook and they were offering two weeks for free and so I decided to check it out. I liked that during the pandemic they taught the classes outside or virtual. Both my son, and now my 5 year old daughter, have been taking classes here for almost a year now. Our first encounter was with Sensei Christine. She is so friendly and easy to talk to, and basically the administrative backbone of this place. Whenever I had a question, schedule change, or whatever, she has always been so accommodating and makes you feel like you a part of a family. My kids absolutely love Sensei Jack! He always makes classes engaging and funny. He is really good with the kids. I like how they not only teach karate, but also the principles of karate and how to deal with every day life situations, like dealing with a bully. I have learned some life lessons myself while watching in on his group classes! The program itself consists of a 30-minute one-on-one with a trainer and then 3 optional 45-minute group classes (based on age). They earn stripes on their belts depending on what they have learned for that particular belt. Once they receive 4 stripes they can test for the next color belt. Tests are usually done once a month. The kids have incentives to earn "ninja dollars" which they can collect to redeem for toys at the "ninja store." The kids really loves this and gives them an opportunity to work harder and be more engaged.

The best. The…read moreoriginal review I wrote for Master Turner's dojo appears to have evaporated, so I'll repost. There are precious few places you can go to train with a 7th degree black belt. Master Turner is as good with kids as he is with adults, and the other instructors, all of whom he has hand-picked, are also superb. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. I've been working out here for 10 years now, and never plan to stop.

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Aikido Federation of California Shuyokan

(3 reviews)

2.7 mi

We are blessed to have found our Aikido family. Sensei David Dye goes above and beyond to guide his…read morestudents in the art of Aikido and in life

"Everybody was Aikido fighting. Those cats were fast as lightning. In fact it was a little…read morefrightening..." with apologies to Karl Douglas, original singer of "Kung Fu Fighting" the disco hit. Came here at the invitation of a friend because some people were testing for their various degrees of black belts. In my past I trained five years in two martial arts, had brothers who studied Preying Mantis Kung Fu, a friend who did cage fighting, and relatives in Thai Kick boxing. So, it brought back memories watching others go through fights and testing hell in front of a jury of their superiors, friends and families. Those testing were sent through the wringer, running on adrenaline but staying cool, calm and collected.. They had to focus and perform under body slamming, painful, anaerobic conditions. They had to demonstrate a long list of skills with multiple opponents and weapons. Despite oxygen debt, they flipped. punched, and were themselves flipped a hundred times. Did they pass? Results would be officially announced later. Whether they did or not, you had to be impressed with their effort and humility. Anyone who gets to this level has to spend years of sacrifice, time, and dedication, not to mention injuries and money. They have many long term students, but they also spread their knowledge. One candidate teaches a woman's self defense class a city program. All candidates had to set up their some of their fight scenes simulating real life situations. What do you do when some knife wielding scum commands "Give me your IPOD!" And no, the answer is not, "I'd just tell him I only have Miley Cyrus and Justin Beieber songs".Here you learn real options to save your life. This is not an art where they punch or kick. Here they control opponents with the option of dislocating their joints or not, to slam them into the ground, or not. Then they get away. It is after all, self defense, not offense. Try to punch or choke an aikido practitioner, and they will grab your hand, arm, or leg,"redirect" your movement, and quickly twist your limbs till you scream in pain or like Michael Jackson singing "Say Owww!" Lots of law enforcement favor this art and Jiu Jitsu where they can control without necessarily hurting. They have a website that describes their philosophy, and have classes for kids and adults. If you're thinking of taking any martial art, some things to check out: - Are skilled persons regularly there to help develop them physically and mentally? - Is this a nice, safe training facility that knows first aid? - Is the vibe of the place comfortable for all involved?. - Do they discuss the legal aspects of using martial arts? - Does this martial art make sense? - Is the cost fair? - Would you let mother in law train there? (No, for fear she could kick your A$$ besides nag you to death) On all counts, but the last, I think they pass with a "yes".

Aikido Federation - Line up of black belts and candidates

Aikido Federation - Girl wants to flip this nuisance guy off

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And she flips the guy off

Marina Park

(133 reviews)

3.3 mi

Wonderful summer spot for families with YOUNG KIDS!!!…read more Lots of different ways to play: Large grass area Lagoon/bay with sand and seashells Playground with lots of slides There are also lots of PICNIC TABLES at this location so it's easy to set up for breakfast or lunch. It's a very fun and safe environment for our kids and makes our summers days more fun! Our 3 year old enjoys the playground and the lagoon too. You have to PAY FOR PARKING but that's pretty normal for Newport Beach. We usually find parking very easily near here. Also, there are PUBLIC RESTROOMS and showers to rinse off available inside & next to the "lighthouse" - another thing that makes this spot easier with kiddos!

the place to go with small kids! mix of beach, playground, and garden area to play soccer!…read more be sure to go early because parking can be a challenge. the light house is currently under renovation but will be available by april. i love this place

Fun

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View facing the marina.

20th Street Beach and Bikes

(233 reviews)

3.2 mi

My family had such a great experience today at 20th Street Beach and Bikes. The staff was super…read morehelpful in finding us bikes that would suite our family, along with showing us how to use the e-bikes. I highly recommend!

Called with questions and they were helpful and responsive. Location is great to get right on the…read morebeach bike trail which is why we selected them. Showed up on the day to rent bikes and they allowed us to try a few before deciding. The bikes could be in better condition, most of the fleet were showing significant wear. One of our e-bikes had low battery charge and even though someone was able to bike out to where we were to delivery another battery, the replacement was also low and wouldn't be enough for the time we rented. We also lost time waiting for the other battery. However, kudos to the staff and owner because they made it right for us when we returned the bikes. Spot has good staff and a great location. Refreshing the bikes with newer models would bump it to 5 stars.

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The Beach Reserve

(20 reviews)

4.4 mi

Marguerite is amazing!! This was the best bonfire ever. Everything was perfect. All the details abs…read moreeverything provided was awesome!!

This weekend we hosted our first Company Beach Bash - It was a fantastic event to have everyone…read morecome out with their friends and family. It wouldn't have been possible without @thebeachreserve for creating a memorable experience for us. They picked the location right in front of the beach, and everything was set up on time for us to arrive and receive it. Marguerite and her team have a keen eye for detail and ensure everything is set up correctly. They aim to deliver a WOW factor; everyone felt like they were on a resort. I can't wait for us to host our next year's company event.

Birthday Bonfire

Beach day fun!

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City Gym And Pool

4.3

(15 reviews)

3.7 mi

My daughter took swimming classes here and learned how to swim thanks to the amazing instructors…read more She always enjoyed coming here, and I'm very happy with our experience. The instructors and staff are friendly, supportive, and professional. She also joined volleyball classes and really enjoyed them too. We're very thankful for this place!

Aquatone fitness classes are just the best! I attend Monday and Wednesday at 8:15am. Dawnette…read morepushes us with each class and continues to keep it hard and fresh each class. She is just the best!