This place is the real deal. They teach you real life-saving skills and do it in a supportive environment.

(June 2026). I just completed a self-defense seminar at Invictus Krav Maga in Poway. It was really good, very informative. I have been going to this Krav Maga location for over a month now, and find the owner John, Ute, and all the instructors to be very friendly, helpful, and professional. They accommodate people with previous physical issues (I had knee and shoulder surgery). The other attendees are all very nice. The big plus is that you find that you get more self-confidence and knowledge to help defend yourself. I would definitely recommend this place to others. read more

Instructors and students are so warm and welcoming. I loved the classes! Learned so much valuable info

I had a blast doing Krav Maga in a 4-class series for beginners at Invictus Krav Maga in Poway. Our instructor, John, kept things light and peppered in jokes and cultural references when he was teaching, but what he taught works for serious situations - being violently attacked. I looked up YouTube videos on what we learned in class, and John's instruction fit right in in terms of proper techniques. I like how John explained the logic behind doing this or that move, rather than just telling us to do it a certain way. For instance, he explained why we wouldn't want to punch with a fist, but use a palm heel strike instead, because you might fracture a knuckle with a punch to the skull. After each session, John sent us notes via email on how to perform the moves we did in class - which I found especially helpful. My impression is that Krav Maga specializes in dealing with "street fights", and isn't a "sport" (like boxing). Anything goes in Krav Maga, including strikes to the throat and groin. I feel that even with a little bit of instruction, the stuff we learned could be useful if attacked, but I'd need to take more courses for all the stuff to be in "muscle memory" and be able to act quickly in various situations. I think a challenge when in a fight is to "read" the attacker the right way to know what defense or offense to use - is the attacker coming up to you more casually or rushing you? Is he yielding a knife, stick, or gun? Is the attack from the side, behind, or in front? Those different scenarios require different responses. Be prepared to practice the moves again and again, as repetition is necessary to get the moves down well enough so they become automatic in a real-life situation. I do think knowing self-defense can make you feel more assured in social situations, especially when around strangers. You just don't know what will happen these days. One tip I can provide is to pick a partner who is about your same level of strength, so you'll feel comfortable that they are strong enough to handle the strikes you throw at the pads as hard as you possibly can.  In sum, I encourage you to give Invictus Krav Maga in Poway a try! read more

I am brand new, middle aged, and not very athletic. They made me feel welcome and I didn't feel out of place. What they teach is how to survive any kind of attack. It's quite practical and physical. I was a little worried about getting hurt but that didn't happen...totally recommend! I left feeling strong and empowered and I know practice will help me tremendously! read more

John and Ute are wonderful. It is clear that they are incredibly passionate about what they do and go above and beyond to empower us each class. Somehow in only an hour, they manage to provide caring and personalized support to each person while also managing the group and teaching new techniques and approaches each class. They not only teach how to defend against a variety of attacks, but also how to minimize risk and understand psychological contexts. I am grateful to have learned from such excellent empowering instructors. read more

John and Ute are compassionate, enthusiastic and masterful . The women's self defense class is enlightening and empowering . Ladies, do this for you . read more

The introductory class taught by instructors John and Ute was a mix of demonstration and scenario based trainings. They teach simple and highly effective self defense moves and increased my situational awareness tremendously. I will be going back for more training, and would highly recommend the course for anyone who has faced a threat or unwanted attention. read more

I'm so lucky and grateful to have found Invictus. Everyone should be required to take classes here! The instructors are all extremely knowledgeable and experienced, but also supportive and provide you with personalized attention. They give you the tools to feel empowered! read more

Coming from someone who never thought they would willingly go to the gym three days a week, Invictus Krav Maga has truly changed my life for the better! I began studying here after stumbling on an IG ad having never taken a martial art before, thinking it would be a good way to get some exercise while also learning ways to defend myself, and I was proven absolutely correct. Every instructor I have worked with has been very knowledgeable, encouraging, and you can really see their overall passion for empowering you to do better. Over the six months I've been with Invictus, I've watched myself not only become more invested in my personal health and wellbeing than I ever was in the past, but also develop a newfound self-confidence and self-reliance I never knew I had. Thanks Invictus!! read more

Invictus Krav Maga - Instructors John and Ute presenting me my P1 patch after passing my rank test. :) - Gyms Near Me - Poway, California

Learning self defense with a great supportive team can make a whole lot of difference! Recommend

The best instructors, and what a environment that is created. If you're looking for a great authentic Krav Maga training or even just want to learn some of the best self defense techniques there is, you should definitely check out Invictus Krav Maga! read more

John and Ute are wonderful instructors. They are also very patient and kind! I have taken several self-defense courses but this was by far the best one! read more

The instructors are very knowledgeable and welcoming. The techniques we learn are meant to prepare us for real-life scenarios. I've gained so much self confidence through Krav Maga. I'm really grateful for the instructors. Give it a try!! read more

Took a Sunday class with instructor John and loved it! The place was clean, open, and nice! The instructor was funny and informative. He made my first class not scary or intimidating at all! Will definitely be back again! read more

Invictus Krav Maga - Instructor John was amazing! Funny and great music! Made me feel comfortable and safe! - Gyms Near Me - Poway, California

I have never taken a self defense course in my past, but since the worlds a little wonky I decided to take one. I met with Jon who told me how Krav Maga started, what types of techniques were to be taught and how they would transfer over into the real world. I was offered a free class to see if it was right for me. There were all levels of persons within the class, as well as different age groups. I felt completely comfortable with Jon and his direction of teaching. All the instructors are patient, understanding of ones personal and physical limitations, working with you to understand and move ahead. I was happy to hear that Invictus is adding children's/youth courses. This will help prepare my son for possible outcomes in his life that may warrant him protecting himself against others. read more