I have been bringing my son here for about 8 months and I have seen a great improvement in my his…read moreoverall attitude towards others and himself. His confidence has gone up and we are so grateful to the Gracie team here in Riverside for all the help they have given and the compassion shown is astounding. I am excited to see the young man he becomes with the help and guidance from all these amazing coaches and his peers.

I have been training with Gracie for about 2 months and it is awesome. They offer a women's only…read moreclass on Saturday mornings at the Riverside location. All of the ladies are great. We are bonding and making our friendship better each weekend. I was able to gain the comfort and confidence with my training partner/ friends and coaches and also began trying out the mixed classes during the week nights. If your looking for a place to learn some great skills and friendship, come join us. All of the coaches are great. Be ready for a nice full body workout. See you soon :)

I've practiced martial arts in some form or another for well over a decade, including eight and a…read morehalf years on active duty with the Marine Corps. I've studied several martial disciplines -- everything from the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program and Krav Maga to Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. What I've learned as a part of this small, talented group has amounted to some of the best martial training I've ever received. Training in Krav Maga and MCMAP was a lot like "trade school." You're given a set of easily learned, very general self defense techniques and are sent off after as little as three months with all of the fundamental skills the instructor feels you require to defend yourself in a wide variety of street scenarios. Training in Eskrima under the system Guro Francis Serrano and the other guros in Visayan Legacy have developed is much more like studying theory. Belt testing tests your understanding of the rationale behind the techniques as much as your mastery of them. This gives you a crucial bit of flexibility in street situations. They won't just teach you how to fight like a martial artist -- they'll teach you how to *think* like one, too. From the beginning, you learn foundational techniques -- the "abecedario" -- and have opportunities to interpret the movement in a way that works with your individual body mechanics, physical capabilities, and approach to combat. That fundamental difference has made me a much better "martial artist" if ever I was one. That's it then. If you want colorful belts, head on over to your local McDojo. If you want to win fights, come train with us.

In a nutshell: Unprofessional, disorganized, and uncomfortable experience…read more Poor instruction, unnecessary interruptions, and an uncomfortable culture. I won't be returning. I came specifically to check out karambit/knife-defense training and was surprised to learn there isn't actually a physical Cypress school yet, as advertised on their website. My appointment was instead held at Bolsa Chica Beach on September 27, 2026, at 12 p.m. The first impression was already odd. I was the only woman there when I arrived, said hello, and nobody acknowledged or greeted me. Not a huge issue by itself, but it ended up matching the unwelcoming atmosphere that followed. I stayed about 45 minutes. Instead of the karambit instruction I'd asked about, I was given sticks, and even basic terminology wasn't explained. I had to ask what "chamber" meant, only for the person teaching me to acknowledge that he hadn't explained it. He later commented that I "like nuance." I'm a beginner and this was my first class--questions are how students learn. Things became even more awkward when his jealous girlfriend interrupted him mid-instruction to announce, "Babe, your fly is down," followed by giggling while I stood there waiting to continue. Francis then interjected, asking, "Is everything okay?" Another woman later interrupted my instruction as well. I've trained in jiu-jitsu and Muay Thai in structured environments in accredited gyms where instructors explain techniques professionally, step-by-step, welcome questions, and remain humble regardless of rank. What I encountered here was a morbidly obese man cosplaying as an instructor playing war general with a god complex rather than teaching with professionalism and efficiency. The fixation on being addressed as "sir" and receiving "yes, sir/no, sir" responses after seemingly every instruction Francis gave appeared more important than patiently teaching a first-time student. The authoritarian attitude and irritation I experienced when asking questions came across to me as an ego trip, not professional martial arts instruction. That was especially jarring after the lengthy conversation I'd had with him beforehand about his alleged personal hardships and the family experiences he said inspired his martial-arts journey. I expected that story to translate into humility and mentorship. My experience was the opposite. Guess he doesn't practice what he preaches. When the lesson was stopped so students could unload a vehicle for their gathering, I'd had enough. I grabbed my things and left. If you're looking for structured, martial-arts instruction worth your money where beginners can ask questions and receive clear, professional, explanations, I would look elsewhere.

This gym welcomed me with open arms !! All coaches and…read moremembers are friendly and easy to get along with and always trying to help each other out. The kids class is amazing !! Really fun !

Whether you're looking to compete, get in shape, learn self-defense, or just find a great…read morecommunity, Acima Jiu Jitsu is the place to be. Awesome youth program. Highly recommend!!

If your son or daughter is interested in learning martial arts--and so much more--this is the place…read moreto be. Dave Hopkins Kung-Fu San Soo is a family-owned business run by an incredible family and a team of dedicated instructors who teach far more than just Kung-Fu. My son has been training here for several years, and I've had the privilege of watching him grow into a more confident, focused, and coachable young person. The lessons taught are practical, relatable, and applicable to everyday life, helping children build a strong foundation not only in martial arts but also in school, sports, and personal development. What sets this school apart is its emphasis on character, discipline, respect, and perseverance. The instructors genuinely care about each student's growth and success, both on and off the mat. They offer classes for young children, teens, young adults, and adults, making it a welcoming environment for the whole family. I highly recommend Dave Hopkins Kung-Fu San Soo to anyone looking for a martial arts program that teaches valuable life skills along with exceptional training.

since I joined Master Dave Hopkins Kung Fu San Soo school in 2020, I became a better martial…read moreartist, more confident and made new friends. Everyone's so helpful and like a big family. Dave Hopkins KFSS also helped me prepare for action films such as realistic fight stunts, being professional, coachable, aware of my surroundings, improved acting, script memorizing and a good listener on set. I also feel more focused and confident that I can defend myself, friends and family on the street.

Another year has past and I am still proud to be part of the amazing and accepting Gorilla family!…read moreFrom the amazing leadership from the dedicated coaches to the motivated and eager students. The lessons learned here go deeper than just self defense. Oosss

Killer Brazilian Jiu Jitsu here! If you want to win tournaments, this is where you train.read more

Matt has a great place to train here and it's the coolest gym I've ever been to in terms of…read moreequipment and ambiance. MMA and weightlifting and racquetball and even fencing

My family has been part of this gym for the past three years. My wife does the morning kickboxing…read moreclass and we all participate in Jiu-Jitsu during the evening classes. We've competed and have had great results. This isn't your typical gym it's more of a family/community of like minded individuals coming together to make each other better. Stop by and get some reps in.

I highly recommend it!! I dragged my 9 year old and my…read more11year old girl. They don't like confrontation so Kempo was out of their radar. However mom is in charge... I knew that they needed to build their self stem, self awareness in this world full of bullying. Confidence is my gift to them. I tried the Usko and parks and rec but to me it was too cheotic and disorganized... I didn't wanted my kids to get lost in the mix. I came to this studio. I noticed all the class/kids had the instructor *Senseis attention, I noticed that the sensei was teaching way more than punches or self defense. Accountability, work for what you want and to be a better human being, feel comfortable in your own skin that cannot be thought with sugar coating our babies. Thought love will. My kids have finished their first year and I noticed the difference in their demeanor, confidence, thoughtful to other, self efficient * they no longer need me to sit with them until their homework was done, helpful at home. As a single mom... with little to no help, this is the best gift I can give them... a gift that they will carry though out their life.

I have been taking my son to Kenpo classes for the past three months and hands-down, Mr. Grilli and…read morestaff are Professional. Mr. Grilli is extremely passionate about the craft of martial arts and helps all students of different skill levels with equal care. Mrs. Grilli is always on-hand to answers all questions in person or email. The Jr Instructors are also a wonderful addition to the school, also helping when the classes are full. The facility is super clean & welcoming. Yes, parking can be tricky but with proper planning a spot can be found or parking can be found across the street, easy-peasy. I'm happy we have found a family martial arts school. I will recommend JSK Riverside 100%.

As a parent, you're always hoping to find "that one thing" your kid connects with. For us, that…read moreturned out to be Marcellini's Martial Arts Academy. Before Jiu Jitsu, we tried several activities, but nothing really stuck. Our daughter felt shy and uncomfortable in most environments. From day one here, Sensei Sam made her feel welcome and part of the group. That care and encouragement meant everything. Now, three years later, the change is incredible. She's more confident, more focused, calmer, and makes better decisions. Her social skills have improved so much, and she's not afraid to step into new situations anymore. She carries herself differently -- stronger and more self-assured. And the best part? She absolutely loves going. This isn't just martial arts training -- it's character building, teamwork, and life skills. We're very grateful we found this place. Highly recommend to any parents considering it.

We brought my 7 yr old daughter because we really wanted her to take self defense classes. They…read moregave us a free class to try it out. Well then after the class I expressed that it just seemed more like kids playing than actually teaching them self defense. The classes are large, about 50 kids per class. They start them by running around the room and then "teaching" them some moves. They do this for about 30 min and then they end the class with the kids playing dodge ball. I told the instructor that I wanted more self defense and I wasn't to happy about the class but he said he was a black belt and knew what he was teaching but was doing it in a laid back way for the kids. I really gave the place the benefit of the doubt so I went forward and signed up for the classes. It's a 1 year contract and if you decide the classes aren't working you have to pay $250 cancellation fee if you cancel with-in the year. We brought my daughter for 2 months and honestly it felt like the same thing each week. She even said she didn't want to go anymore that it was the same thing all the time. I decided to cancel and paid that huge fee. Just if you're looking for more fun and maybe for your child to make friends and stay active this place is great for that, but if you want more "fighting" and self-defense then maybe look for something else before you sign a contract. Don't be like me and have to pay that much to cancel.

I've been training Muay Thai at USKO Riverside for almost two years. This studio is run by the…read morePagliuso family where Joey fought in Kickboxing and some Muay Thai. The evening classes that I attend are taught by lead instructor, Ray. Although I only train in Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Karate classes are also offered here. Onsite gym access is also offered with Gold membership and access to the Orange facility is also offered with the Gold membership. Muay Thai practices typically consist of a warm-up such as jump rope or jumping with conditioning drills in-between, shadow boxing, learning technique by hitting pads, bag drills with punches and kicks and sparring at the last 15 minutes of practice. The workout is great for me as I'm in my 50's and I don't have any aspirations to compete. I attend 2 - 3 times a week, evenings during the week and sometimes Saturday morning. It would be tough to get that high intensity workout by just going to a gym. The staff is is friendly and helpful. My only opportunities for improvement are more clinch training is needed on Monday or Fridays and the mats could be cleaned more frequently. Four stars!

My 6-year-old ended up with ringworm 2 TIMES after attending class, I'm extremely disappointed with…read morethe cleanliness of the facility. This is a kids' program where children are rolling around on the mats all day, sweating and making constant skin-to-skin contact. Hygiene should be an absolute priority. Simply giving the mats a quick wipe with a soft cloth is not enough. Mats need to be properly cleaned and disinfected regularly with products and procedures designed to prevent the spread of things like ringworm and other skin infections. After this experience, I seriously question their sanitation practices. When parents trust you with their children, providing a clean and sanitary training environment should be the bare minimum. I would strongly recommend parents pay attention to the condition of the mats and ask about their cleaning procedures before enrolling their kids.

Rachel and her staff are some of the finest Pilates instructors I have found. I have been doing…read morePilates for about 11 years. The owner, Rachel, is wonderful and very caring. Articulations has a studio downtown Riverside and a new studio in Jurupa Valley off Limonite next to Wells Fargo. They not onLH offer Pilates but also Suspension Pilates and Barre classes. Many of the classes are for beginners. I highly recommend for all levels of Pilates students. Mya M.

I took Pilates with Tricia and she is amazing and knows really well what she does. She is very…read moreprecise and tries to listen to all your physical ailments. I took pilates before, but I loved the individual attention I got from the one on ones. She taught me how to articulate my muscles together, especially my core. Unfortunately, I developed severe knee pain and back pain and have to lay off pilates, but for those of you that are healthy and have no chronic problems, pilates is the best way to stay fit and keep your core strong.