5 stars because there's no 10 stars! My family and I have been training at Dogo Krav Maga for about six months now, and I can't say enough good things about this place. From day one, we were welcomed like we'd been part of the community for years. Gustavo, Gustavo Jr., and Samantha are incredible coaches -- knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely passionate about teaching proper technique. They have a way of breaking things down so anyone can understand, whether you're brand new or already have some experience. More importantly, they really care. They notice when you're improving, they push you when you need it, and they always make sure you're learning in a safe, supportive environment. The atmosphere here is exactly what we were looking for. It truly feels like a family. No egos, no intimidation -- just people of all ages and skill levels learning, growing, and having fun together. In the six months we've been here, I've watched my family's confidence, fitness, and overall mindset improve in a way I honestly didn't expect. Being part of this community has made a real difference for us, and we're grateful to be here. If you're considering Krav Maga or just looking for a positive place to get stronger and more confident, Dogo Krav Maga is the real deal. Highly recommend. read more

Fourth year training at Dogo. Personalized and structured training, motivating and family oriented. Fully equipped for technical and strength training. Thank you Gustavo and Dogo team for the continuous encouragement and learning!! I appreciate everything. read more

This is coming from someone who had been training muay thai, boxing, krav maga, and jiu jitsu at multiple gyms around the bay, DOGO is absolutely fantastic. Gustavo is very knowledgeable and knows what he's doing. If you are looking to learn basic or more advanced self defense skills, this is the best gym for you. You really get what you put in with these classes, but you are guaranteed to come out stronger and more prepared. I absolutely recommend DOGO, and refer all my friends here all the time! I love this place and the people who teach and go here. It's a family, not just a gym. No intimidation, no judgement, just support and good vibes. Join now, you won't regret it, trust me. read more

Dogo Defense Academy - Boxing Near Me - Concord, California

Timely , challenging , respectful, professional- I couldn't ask for more in a self defense school.

This place is a gem! I am new to Krav Maga and recently joined. The instructor, Gustavo, communicates and demonstrates the techniques well. Each session is different, which keeps it fresh. The gym is clean and doesn't have the musty odors you find in other places. The equipment is in great shape and the mats are new. The other members are welcoming. There are separate sessions for kids. The adult classes draw both men and women. I highly recommend this place! read more

I had been eyeing Dogo Krav Maga for a long time and about a year and a half ago, I finally took the plunge and I'm so glad I did! Gustavo Sr., Samantha, and Gustavo Jr. are amazing, welcoming, and just really make you feel part of the Dogo family. Self-protection is a non-negotiable skill and I want my littles to know how to protect themselves. Sam works hard helping them build skills, focus, and respect while keeping things challenging in the youth class. I'm excited for the day they can move up to the older youth class with their son Gustavo Jr., who is amazing with the older kids and consistently inspires and motivates them through his training. I started the boxing fitness class over a year ago and even though I've always worked out regularly, this class pushes me every single time. I've gotten stronger, more defined, and feel like I can actually kick butt! Gustavo Sr. is hilarious too and his energy makes every class a blast. The Dogo Krav Maga family has made such an impact in our lives. I can't recommend them enough! If you've been hesitant or intimidated like I was, go and try a class or two. Seriously, you'll be so glad you did! read more

Tremendous improvement in my strength, balance and movement. I sit at a desk all day and this training has helped all my little physical issues. Plus I'm less anxious around personal safety. Very beginner friendly. I am not He-Man and always feel welcome. Gustavo and team met me where I started, which was about half a push-up. I can do more now read more

I'm glad to be practicing martial arts once more after being a student of Taekwondo years back! After doing online homework about which styles of martial arts to restart up on, Krav Maga seemed to work well for my needs. After several months of private lessons, Gustavo and the team certainly make it worthwhile to continue coming back to learn more! Practicing at home daily helped me immensely to retain the muscle memory, physical conditioning, and techniques necessary to making Krav Maga an effective self defense system. Not only in physical aspects, but also in mentally stimulating activities such as negotiating, everyday conversations, and general situational awareness. read more

I have been training here for over 8 years at this new location. I get a better cardio workout doing 1 class than I did training with the military. Here I'm able to work out and learn real world training for street survival in a crazy world. I would heavily recommend this to anyone that wants to become a better version of themselves. There are no egos and a family friendly environment. Show up and give it a try you won't regret it. read more

Phenomenal Krav Maga Gym Experience I've been consistently impressed with the workouts at this Krav Maga gym--challenging, energizing, and tailored to push you while building real-world skills. But what truly sets this place apart is the care and attention they've given my two sons. Over the past three years, they've grown from curious teens into confident young men, thanks to the instructors' mentorship, discipline, and genuine investment in their progress. This gym isn't just about self-defense--it's about character, community, and transformation. Highly recommend! read more

If I could give more than five stars, I would. This place isn't just a gym--it's a force of nature. From the moment you step in, you're welcomed like family, challenged like a warrior, and transformed from the inside out. The energy here is magnetic. It pushes you beyond your limits but always with care, integrity, and humor. I've laughed, sweated, bruised (in the best way), and grown stronger--physically, mentally, emotionally. The instructors? Next-level. Skilled, passionate, and fiercely dedicated. They don't just teach technique--they teach resilience. They see your potential before you even believe it yourself. Every class is intentional, dynamic, and addictive. And the attention to detail--from warm-ups to mindset coaching--is on point and deeply impactful. The community here is one of a kind. Everyone lifts each other up--no egos, just grit, respect, and so much heart. Whether you're a total beginner or a seasoned fighter, you'll find your place. And then you'll never want to leave. Come for the Krav. Stay for the growth. This DOGO has changed my life--and I mean that with every fiber of my sore, empowered self. read more

This review is long overdue. What started as a means for my daughter and I to learn a little bit of self defense has turned into a few years of continued practice. From day one, Gustavo and his family teach practical techniques, opening your mind to being resourceful, always with several options on hand. Besides a great physical and mental workout, you get to learn with props, train with the thought of real life situations, and best of all they cultivate an encouraging environment where everyone cheers on each other. They care about the community and each individual that comes through their door. Personally, when I suffered through rough patches in my life, this gym has provided me an invaluable safe haven. It's a place I know I can be embraced without judgement while furthering my physical fitness journey. read more

I'm older and arthritic and thought Krav Maga would wear me out -- but no! it's oiled the joints and I feel better with more energy. The dojo is great -- they let you proceed at your own pace then push you to make sure you stay on it and improve. Kind good professional people with patience and humor. Really wonderful to be part of it. Make sure it becomes part of your routine and you'll love it too !!! read more

My son and I enrolled in this place because I want my son to gain confidence and be fit at the same time. And for me as woman and a single mom I also want to learn how to defend myself and my kids. And turned out we love every moment of it. It became me and my son's bonding, everytime we go home he always excitedly showed everyone in the house the moves he learned for the day. Gustavo and his family run this business and they treat the people like family too. This place is highly recommended read more

My son took youth classes at Dogo Krav Maga with the Owner's son as his instructor for a few years. He came there after being bullied in middle school and it helped him gain so much self-confidence and strength. This place is truly amazing and you can really tell the owner and his instructors truly love what they do. I can't recommend this place enough! read more

The best place in the area to practice Krav Maga. The instructor is one of the most knowledgeable and experienced instructors I ever worked with. Highly recommended read more

I'm Norman, a student of Gustavo at Dogo Krav Maga since February 2018. I was recently in Bangkok Thailand for vacation and training at the world renowned Yokkao Training Center. At first, I was very anxious of the thought of training with elite fighters. I wasn't so sure if I can do what they ask of me. It also didn't help that I was wearing Dogo Krav Maga shorts as opposed to everyone who were all in traditional Muay Thai training clothes. However, as the training progressed, my confidence steadily rose as I was able to do everything that they tossed at me - high knee, teep, elbow to the head, round house to the head, punch-elbow-kick combinations, etc. Everything was just familiar. My trainer, who is a WBC champion, commented that I have "good technique" and that I am strong. In all honesty, I did better than the other students at the class. I felt so proud of the moment and even more grateful of Gustavo for what he has taught me at Dogo Krav Maga! My experience in Bangkok is a validation of the high quality and authenticity of the techniques that is being taught at Dogo Krav Maga. DKM is definitely not a run of the mill self defense school. I have come across a number of students who have been in the military or police force where Krav Maga was taught and they all said that the techniques Gustavo teaches are definitely legit and effective. I can't recommend Dogo Krav Maga highly enough to anyone who wants to seriously learn how to defend themselves and others on the streets or to just get fit by punching and kicking. The Krav Maga classes usually star with high intensity body weight training, so you'll get fit no matter what. The techniques that Gustavo teaches involve striking, wrestling and grappling. The school also has Boxing Fitness and Kickboxing classes. Sparring is on Thursday afternoon, which is keenly supervised by Gustavo to control egos and avoid injuries. There are also a number of weight machines and free weights for strength building. It really has everything to get you fit and ready. In short, DKM will build and strengthen your body, boost your confidence and prepare you for the dangerous characters out there. Just follow Gustavo's instructions and you'll get to where you want to be. It's definitely worth your time and money. read more

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I'm retired. I live in a fairly safe neighborhood. One evening, I'm walking my dog. I'd say we're only a mile or so from my home. About a hundred yards from us a stranger yells, "Nice dog." I reply, "Thank you." Smiling, he asks, "How much will you sell him for?" Surprised and somewhat flattered, I reply, "He's not for sale." Then with a blank facial expression, I believe he says something like, "Too bad, I might have to take him from you!" Not believing what was said, I said, "Excuse me?" Speaking with more conviction, he responds, "I might have to take him from you." Being street smart, I really don't know if I was more annoyed, stunned or amused. I always try to avoid confrontation because the worst-case scenario can always lead to violence. Now having been around the block a few times, I know that the last thing you do is to ignore a street challenge of confrontation. While walking toward him, I'm sizing him up. He's at least 35 years younger, 3 or 4 inches taller and at least 20 lbs. heavier. I doubt if he's in better shape but if he is, so what. Finally, I'm within arm's length. Even if he has a knife or gun, there's no doubt in my mind. I can take him. Training, preparation with confidence and real-life combat skills for the sometimes not so nice world we live in; that's what you'll get from Gustavo Desperetti, chief instructor and owner of Dogo Krav Maga. Family oriented, you'll find that he genuinely cares about your development and ability to protect yourself and loved ones. If you want straight forward self-defense instruction in a caring, supportive considerate environment, you need to check out Dogo Krav Maga. Gustavo is a Pro's Pro. I rate Dogo Krav Maga "5" because I can't rate it 10. Oh, and by the way, I still have my dog and about a week later, the guy in question walked across my path. I suppose for good reason, he acted as if he didn't see me. read more

the best place to get in shape and learn new skills, great gym, clean, safe and open to all ages and levels, but the best part is the trainers all of them with years of experience and they know how to transmit the knowledge read more

I would highly recommend Dogo Krav Maga. If your looking to up your skills in self-defense or just learn the Art of Krav Maga, Gustavo is a wonderful instructor, teacher and motivator who has a nonsense straight forward approach. He doesn't teach flashy skills. He teaches techniques that actually work! The workouts and training are consistent and will bring you to the next level of conditioning in self-defense. The great thing about Krav Maga is that it was designed for all ages and has no restrictions or limitations. Another great addition to the school is that they offer high intensity kickboxing, boxing plus open gym. If your looking to work on your striking ability your conditioning or just want to get rid of stress, its the perfect addition for anyone. read more

Came to Dogo a year ago this is natural reactions of self defense and fine tuning it with understanding how the body reacts, pain points, and how to control stress and the panic reaction. This is the school of the self, the scenarios, practice, the element of pushing yourself to failure and still not giving up it builds your internal voice to tell you to never give up no matter what. Learning to defend yourself is a skill not many learn but what I learned here at Dogo is beyond what I thought I would learn. Every class teaches me something new even if it's been a revisit I find myself learning to do something different and improve and that's a good thing. Gustavo, his family and everyone are amazing it's not often you find an instructor who understands you as a person and knows you personally. Rather than just knowing you as a face in the dojo. Every time I go to train I leave as a better man, to protect myself, loved ones and others. It's not easy but nothing good comes easy. Amazing, don't wait if you wanted to train and learn Krav Maga. read more

Best decision ever made training here. Thankful for what I learned and the confidence I gained in protecting myself and loved ones. Gustavo and his family (and all the trainers) are incredibly kind and hard working people and you will love spending time there building relationships with them - there is no such thing as a bad question and in fact questions are highly encouraged and makes you feel like your training is tailored to your needs. They are very fair with pricing and even offer an intro session to show you what to expect to ensure you feel like your money will be well spent - in just in one hour I felt like I learned so much that I almost felt bad I didn't pay them more. But hopefully this review demonstrates my gratitude for the lessons I learned. Again, best decision ever. Thanks Gustavo and family! read more

I started at DOGO KM just under a year ago as something to do with my wife. We fell in love instantly with the routine, the class structure, and, above all else, the people. When my wife began working nights, I continued to go and I can say it has changed my life. In addition to giving up a self defense program that is based on routine and repetition, DKM teaches everyone at all levels in a manner that is easy to understand and apply in real life situations. You never feel intimidated or "not experienced enough" to take even your first class; and for beginners, the more tenured classmates there are just as helpful as the instructors themselves. Gustavo and his family have created not only a great self defense class, but a great space to meet new people, and forge unique relationships that can last long past the end of class. I highly recommend anyone interested in martial arts or Krav Maga to pop in for a free lesson and see what you think!! read more

Great Krav Maga and combat fitness gym located in Concord. Family business and good atmosphere amongst the students. You'll get a great workout/sweat here and learn some great self defense. Boxing fitness and Kickboxing fitness are great exercise, also has sparring once a week. Welcoming atmosphere for men and women, all fitness levels will enjoy it. Check out a class of interested! read more

I am a 72 year old geezer, with nasty feet and leg neuropathy, and Gustavo's boxing fitness program has given me back my legs!!, does it cure neuropathy, no, nothing does, BUT, I am now able to due physical activity that I had lost the ability to do because of the neuropathy . And, of equal importance, because of the self defense aspects of the program I am now less apt to be a casualty of the street lowlife's that prey on old folks. Gustavo's self defense programs are very much well worth your time. Hank read more

I can't say enough good things about Dogo Krav Maga. My son has been practicing for about 2 1/2 years now, and absolutely loves it. His confidence, physical skills, fitness, confidence in his ability to handle himself in any situation has increased tremendously. He is in fourth grade now and I can see him doing this until he goes to college. Thank you Gustavo and family for the ongoing amazing experience at your studio! read more

I have done videos, gym membership, classes but Dogo Krav Maga has been the best for my weight, cardio, strength and mental health! Having an instructor like Gus that pushes you hard, even when you want to give up on yourself is important for motivation. I came in 35lbs heavier and couldn't even do a sit up, push up. Now I have more energy and confidence with all that comes my way. Lastly you get more here than any gym or class, you will get lifelong experience on how to defend yourself in this crazy world. 1 year in and I am hooked. read more

SUMMARY: It doesn't get any better than this. One of the very few things I miss about the Bay area and esp. Concord. Excellent training by an instructor who truly gives 110% for his students and his family. BACKGROUND: Was with this program for about a year and a half before moving to TX in early June 2021. Unfortunately I have NOT been able to find a KM or KB dojo as good as his out here in TX, but that speaks more to the quality of instruction I received at Dogo Krav Maga than anything else. INSTRUCTOR: Gustavo is truly one of a kind. Alot has been said about Krav Maga schools and the mixed bag of quality instructors, but I will tell you with certainty that Gustavo is not a McDojo fake instructor pushing belts for money like dojos you may have been a part of (been there, done that). You have to apply yourself here and he's an excellent and patient instructor. During the time I trained at DKM, I came to find out that he is certified by Roy Elghanayan (REKM in LA), one of Krav Maga's well known, world famous KM practitioners. Also towards the tail end of my time at this dojo, he was routinely flying down to Santa Monica to sharpen his boxing skills with the well known Olympic champ Tony Jeffries. Both of these guys you can find on Youtube. And after looking at some of TJ's free videos, I know Gustavo brought some of those drills back to the dojo. Gustavo's eldest son and daughter also help teach the adult and kid's classes. You will see his wife training there as well. One of the things I love about this place and Gustavo is seeing how tight his family is and how much love he has for them. There are times (announced) where we won't have Saturday classes and that's because he's taking his family out for weekend trips. Who can't respect that? KRAV MAGA CLASSES His classes are both educational and fun, but yes, you're getting conditioned as you should be. A typical class starts with a bow (ki-da), some light stretching, light shadow boxing, jogging around very clean and nicely equipped studio. And from there, there might be some bag work on the really nice heavy bags and then go into drills. As for the drills, they vary but all involve some kind of real world situation. Sitting in a chair and being attacked. Sitting on the grass and being attacked. Attacked by multiple defenders. Attacked with a blade. All very practical situations with the emphasis to survive, escape, or take out the attacker. No point sparring or any sport ridiculous stuff like that (have you seen how TKD has evolved now in the Olympics? lol). KICK BOXING CLASSES (More like Muay Thai than KB) In my opinion, if you want to get your ass kicked into shape quick, join the kick boxing classes. This isn't like those old Billy Blank DVD or your typical big box gym KB classes. His are more styled around real boxing and Muay Thai. Gustavo grew up boxing (seen the pics) and in my opinion, this is where his instruction really shines. Taking KB helped me drop a good 14lbs while I was there. The classes are fun but rigorous, but there's no pressure to keep up with more experienced and more fit regulars. He always emphasizes to get the technique right. With taking this class though, you will find that you will need to buy your own equipment like legit boxing or muay thai boxing gloves, wrestling or boxing shoes, and hand wraps. But trust me, it's worth the investment. I have seen some amazing transformations of other students too while taking this class. There was a family of four who joined after I did and the whole family started dropping some serious weight and I could tell the eldest son gained a lot of confidence while there. Really great to see him gain that confidence so quickly from the instruction there. FACILITIES Gustavo and his son clean this place like a hospital after the class. Every student is required to wipe down their workout area, heavy bag, etc. to help out, but Gustavo is ultra careful with his dojo. He not only disinfects the entire dojo in between classes, but also has those UV light/disinfectant machines that he and his son spray on every heavy bag. The equipment they use is primarily Revgear, which is not a cheap brand and must be shipped up from LA (Van Nuys). He's always adding new gear, and prior to my departure, he built a gym in the spare room. They do have a toilet w/ sink as well, which is also clean and well maintained. STUDENTS / VIBE I will say that at no time was there any over aggressive b.s. ever seen or ever tolerated at DKM. People of all levels, fitness type, etc. were there having a good time and learning. Egos were expected to be checked at the door. I made good friends there and when I return back to the area to visit family, I'll drop by to say hi to them. RETURN VISIT? Well until CA gets it's act together, we're happy out here in TX. I would love to bring him out here, but for the rest of you folks near Concord, definitely train with Gustavo. He and his studio are truly diamonds in the rough! read more

My children have been attending for about a year now. This has been such a great experience for them!! They keep the children engaged and the classes are always different and exciting. Both my 7 yr old and 15yr old have really enjoyed training here. The Dogo is family owned and the whole family/staff is very nice. First impressions are everything and when you walk in and look around everything is well taken care and you can tell cleanliness is a priority! Very thankful to have found them. read more

I've been coming to Gustavo for 5 years, and I can't recommend him enough. It's a workout that you won't get bored of, it stimulates your brain, it has real-life applications, and it's incredibly fun. Krav Maga definitely allowed me to meet my fitness goals, but that's not where the confidence it gives you comes from. It's just so empowering to learn how to leverage what you have to protect yourself. It will change you. read more

Dogo Krav Maga - DO IT! I cannot say enough about how awesome this place is! As a less-than-fit female who has never been to any gym and has ZERO experience with any type of self-defense or kickboxing, I was at first a little intimidated by the idea of throwing myself into a "macho" environment. But Gustavo's positivity and approach to teaching all kinds of students has fostered a completely welcoming and safe environment which has all students - beginners and advanced - supportive and friendly with no egos involved. In this gym, it doesn't matter where you come from or what your shape is, or even if you have physical limitations; Gustavo will work with you and get you to the best self you can be - all you have to do is try. I myself have chronic shoulder and knee issues, but Gustavo never fails to provide alternative movements to ensure I can do what I need to do without injury. The kickboxing is an amazing cardio workout, and every day is different! Gustavo includes such a variety that you never get bored. The Krav Maga classes are thoughtful, well planned, and also a challenging workout...and fun! Gustavo provides detailed demonstrations and explanations with ample opportunity to practice and receive feedback. His style is straightforward and honest without the "macho" BS you get from other instructors. He even provides his Krav Maga classes on Facebook live for those who are unable to make it to the gym! I can honestly say that joining this gym is one of the best decisions I've made for my physical health as well as stress management, learning self-defense, and gaining confidence. I would highly recommend any person of ANY shape or fitness level give the 101 class a try! read more

Gustavo is an excellent coach, who not only teaches you proper techniques, but is engaging and corrects your moves  while making it fun to good music. I began training with him two months ago and already feel stronger and more confident. I've been playing professional volleyball a good chunk of my life and working with him reminds me of a drill we had to go through before competitions, but even tougher sometimes! Our rapport has been excellent. I'm doing private sessions, which I highly recommend. The sport is challenging and often feels like boot camp, but it is highly rewarding. I come home "licking my wounds," but with a great smile and always looking forward to the next session. I'm 50 and still love to kick ass, so please consider this training for you or your kids as well. You will be right at home. read more

I have taken my son to 4 prior martial arts schools. They were all lacking in discipline and physical activity. Most karate schools just take your money & your child gets a nice belt but learns zero. More importantly none actually taught him how to defend himself. Gustavo and his instructors truly have a grasp on what is needed in a well rounded class for any child. If you're looking for a self defense school for your child to get fit, learn how to protect themselves in a discipline, safe and clean environment this place has it all. read more

I initially started looking into other ways to stay fit with my husband and switch up the gym routine, when we stumbled upon Dogo Krav Maga. I think the thing I value most about training here is the respect everyone has for each other, the dynamic training style of Gustavo, and the mental strength this self defense system yields. Krav teaches you to believe in yourself and stop seeing yourself the way the world sees you, and start seeing yourself as a stronger person without limits. 10/10 recommend to anyone looking for a wholesome way to stay fit and become stronger both physically and mentally. All experience levels have a place here and it is a safe place to train. read more

This is not fancy. This is not some ornate style meant to show off or impress. This is real world solutions for real world situations. Taught in a group setting with one on one attention to detail, Gustavo makes sure you are learning what he is teaching. I would recommend Dogo Krav Maga for those who are looking to push themselves out of their comfort zone, get a great workout and learn how to really defend yourself. read more

If you want to feel an instant burn while pushing yourself both mentally and physically, then Dogo Krav Maga and Kickboxing are for you. Gustavo Desperatti is a disciplined man who expects your very best because truly your biggest competition is yourself. Everyday life is not predictable, so through the self-defense class, we are prepared by analyzing real-life circumstances. Desperatti demonstrates his knowledge and skill by teaching us many techniques to help us avoid being defeated by anyone. Apart from Dogo Krav Maga, kickboxing is fun but really more badass. It consumes a lot of energy but it's so worth it when you finish, thus, feel like a champ. I recommend​ DKM to all ages! - Fabiola Parra (2-year member) read more

All I can say is WOW. Gustavo held a complimentary class to introduce women to Krav Maga and I left with many practical ways to defend myself in actual situations. I also got an excellent mental and physical work out. You can tell he really cares about helping people. His enthusiasm and passion for Krav Maga is contagious! Thank you. read more

This is one of the best local martial arts Gym in the Bay Area. Gus is a fantastic teacher, trainer, and sensei. He's helped me learn self defense skills from scratch as well as kick my butt in shape. I had 0 experience in martial arts and he's given me the tools needed to take care of myself in a crazy social environment. When Covid hit, Gus pivoted almost immediately and made the transition to doing online classes which was amazing. His teaching is bar-none and although it is much better to practice and learn in person, his teaching makes it so that you can learn it from home as well. Thank you for everything Gus! read more

I used to train here regularly when I lived in Clayton. Gustavo runs a clean, family friendly training environment, with great people. If you are in the Concord area and looking for a martial arts gym, look no further. Give Gustavo a call, I promise you won't regret it read more

Gustavo is a really good teacher pushes everyone to do their best no matter how experienced you are. It's been great coming to train here my body has never felt better and everyone here is very nice. Youll feel at home here. read more