I used to have a much more positive view of this Krav Maga gym, but unfortunately it has gone significantly downhill and is now in a noticeable state of disarray. The biggest issues are poor management and a lack of clear organization. Communication is inconsistent, newsletters routinely come out late, and administrative follow-through is unreliable. Even basic things like belt test certificates have been delayed by more than a year after the actual test, which speaks to deeper operational problems. There also appears to be a steady decline in membership, which is not surprising given the current state of the gym. The environment feels less structured and less cohesive than it used to be. From a technical standpoint, Krav Maga here feels like a "jack of all trades, master of none." This is an inherent trait of Krav Maga, but if you're going to steal from other martial arts, you should know the pure form of the art as well (at least at the instructor level) to demonstrate the cleanest technique and explain why you're doing certain things. As a result, students get surface-level exposure rather than real proficiency in any one area. If you are looking for strong fundamentals or mastery of a specific discipline, this is not the place. I have also heard repeated concerns about instructors not being properly compensated. Allegedly, some people taught for long periods with little or no pay, which raises serious questions about how the gym treats its staff and values their time. To be clear, this gym was never the best even at its peak, but it was at least better run in the past. At this point, the lack of organization, declining quality, and management issues make it difficult to recommend. I hope they take a hard look at what is happening and make meaningful changes, because right now it feels like a gym that has lost its direction. read more

Joined around Thanksgiving (2024) after having been at UFC gym forever. Enjoy the more intimate, clean, and relaxed environment to take classes in. Instructors are patient and friendly. Would definitely recommend if you want a good workout. read more

I signed up for the trial period and it was a lot of fun. People there are very friendly and helpful. It was my first time taking a martial arts class and I didn't know what to do. Everyone helped out and made me feel welcomed. read more

As someone who's trained at a number of different martial arts gyms, both inside and outside of Los Angeles, I have a lot of thoughts about Krav Maga Unleashed in Pasadena. The main takeaway is that it's a totally fine place to train if you're looking to learn some basics or get a great cardio workout. If you're looking for something more, you're best suited to look elsewhere. Positives - Great bag and pad classes (amazing cardio) - Great ground class - The youth classes look great (shout out to the parents out there) - Decent entry-level instruction (some of the coaches are better than others, but definitely some solid instruction) - Fairly easy parking - Fairly clean facility (two bathrooms and two showers is a big plus) Negatives - Head coach / owner (Pietro*) is not engaged at all, seems completely over it, and is always chatting with the front desk girl instead of paying attention to his class. - Head coach / owner (Pietro) clearly has a limited skillset outside of Krav Maga, which makes it rather embarrassing when he tries to teach techniques that he doesn't know (Philly Shell, teeps, various Muay Thai sweeps, BJJ, etc.) He often falls over when he demos a kick or makes a fool of himself in other ways, whether he knows it or not. - There is a major disconnect from class to class. Some coaches teach one set of techniques for a particular defense, other coaches teach another. This creates a lot of confusion for newer students looking to understand the system, especially when they're going for belts. - It's not a safe place to train imo. The mentality is to just go hard and ask questions later. Recently, two different students suffered a KO during sparring drills. I've also heard about several concussions, knee sprains, broken bones, etc. Imi was very clear that you need to create a safe environment for training, otherwise you're going to have a bunch of students limping around out in the real world. *I hear he's now a police officer, so maybe this doesn't matter anymore, but he taught most of the classes when I was a member. I assume things still trickle down from the top and he has some involvement in teaching style, curriculum, etc. read more

Shady business tactics. Don't trust them with your credit card! The owner Pietro is extremely rude, rigid and inflexible when we contacted him about recent charges after we suspended our account indefinitely with his wife in May. Prior to this our son was enrolled almost 2 years. We took the summer off for travel and were told " no problem let us know when you are ready to come back". At no time were we told to email cancelation or even gently reminded there is a no pause policy. All of these concerns were brought up and only met with hostility. This is not how a business should treat loyal clients. We had planned on returning by December and enrolling our youngest son as well. This business does not value loyal clients and it shows. Why would you give up $3984 annually (2 students) for the unforseeable future over a $150 disagreement ? As a business owner AND local law enforcement you would think the owner would have better people skills. As far as coaches go, Jessie and Jake are great. However it is a one size fits all class for kids meaning they put 5 year olds with 12 year olds so partner work isnt always challenging. Everytime there is a new student the class starts back at zero and looks lile a beginner class which is frustrating for students who have been attending for a while. Despite all of that we kept going because our son enjoyed it. Unfortunately this experience was stomach turning to say the least. read more

Completely changed my life. If you're consistent especially on cardio days, you see results in your body and mind. Not only does Krav Maga Unleashed provide practical self defense, but it improves other areas of your life outside martial arts. You gain confidence, your work life improves as well as your relationship to others. If you want a life upgrade I highly recommend this buisness. read more

I have been coming to Krav Maga Unleashed for about two years. I have grown very stroked to come to class, in large part because all the teachers are so good. I'm a university professor so I am very familiar with the art of teaching and I really pay attention to how other people do it. And all the teachers are awesome. They explain everything very clearly, are totally present, pay attention to what the students are doing and give detailed feedback. And the the fact that they put in the effort makes all the students try harder.. Plus, it's a physical and mental work out that really adds to my quality of life so thank you. Hopefully I won't have to use any of this knowledge in the future, but I feel much better knowing that I know how to. Definitely 5 stars read more

Krav Maga is one of those skills you hope you'll never need to use in real life... but if the time comes it will be the thing that ends up saving your ass! At Krav Maga Unleashed you'll learn self-defense techniques to get you home safely, while getting a great workout in a fun and safe learning environment. Long review ahead... TL;DR - Try a Krav Maga Beginners class with a ton of friendly people in a super clean gym run by amazing people. You'll get a great workout without even realizing it because you're too busy learning how to NOT die on the street. Cardio (bag) & Striking (Thai pads) classes will give you an intense workout if you're like me and looking to burn off all the cookies & pints of ice cream you ate for lunch. ------ FIRST TIME / WHAT TO EXPECT: Check in at the front desk and sign some paperwork, then take off your shoes & hit the mat. Krav Maga Beginners class will start with a basic warm-up (~10mins). Then the instructor will demonstrate a technique or drill (broken down step-by-step). You'll grab a partner so you can practice the techniques yourself (usually you're not allowed to partner with another first-timer, so you'll make a new friend who knows what they're doing and can help you one-on-one). The instructor will walk around to make helpful corrections & answer your questions. Throughout class, instructors will explain the contexts in which these techniques are helpful, so you'll know when and how to apply them. Take water/bathroom breaks whenever you want. Due to COVID, everyone will be training with your face mask on. Your first class can be a little intimidating - but everyone else is there to learn & help each other out. If you feel confused at any point in class, know that you're not alone (I've been training for a few years and still have a billion questions and feel like I don't know what I'm doing half the time!). Don't be afraid to ask questions or ask for feedback. CLASSES - You'll learn practical self-defense techniques for real-life situations. There are a variety of classes that focus on specific areas (self-defense, cardio/bag work, street fighting, striking techniques, weapons, etc.). All of the instructors are very experienced and friendly. COMMUNITY - Pietro (Owner/Head Instructor) & his wife, Georgia, have gone out of their way to make the gym a really special place. They are creating an amazing gym culture and training environment that is fun to learn in. Everyone is super welcoming and encouraging (no egos here), and you'll definitely make a lot of new friends. Pietro has some scary RBF, but he's actually a really nice guy who cares about all of the members. FACILITIES - Cleanest gym I've ever been to! They have fully-stocked showers, brand new equipment, medical-grade filters in the air system, free filtered water refill stations, a vending machine, cubbies for your bags, and Pinterest-worthy bathrooms. Free street parking + a few garage spots. MOBILE APP - The app is super user-friendly so you can book classes or watch instructional videos to help you study the techniques that we go over in class. COVID SAFETY - Everyone wears masks while training, but if you're not comfortable with hands-on self-defense yet, you can take cardio bag or striking classes which are contact-free. Lots of hand sanitizing stations & wipes. Members thoroughly disinfect equipment and mat between classes. read more

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This location is now newly branded as Krav Maga Unleashed under owner & chief instructor Pietro. The new website is KravMagaUnleashed.com See you on the mat! read more

Just joined and had 3 classes so far. Great gym. You should definitely check them out. read more

Krav Maga Unleashed - Martial Arts Near Me - Pasadena, California

Are you looking for a great workout? Are you looking to learn self-defense? (You should!) Well Krav Maga Unleashed is the way to go! Cardio Unleashed (Heavy Bag) is fun and you feel accomplished when you finish. Krav Maga Beginner classes teach you the intro techniques and Krav Maga basic strikes and defenses. These teachings are to help you "so that one may walk in peace." If you're on the fence, at least try one of the classes and see what it's about. You can do this with zero martial arts experience. The Krav Maga Unleashed community is welcoming and encourages one another. No egos here! Oh and the facility is really clean!!! Hope to see ya! *I'll be the one with a soaked shirt read more

Best martial arts place by far. I have been at this Krav maga established for about a year now and everything has been great. The place is really clean and organized. Bathrooms are new, clean and luxurious. Staff is professional and energetic. I have learned a lot and gotten in much better shape. Pietro is helpful and approachable. read more

I took my first double class today, Cardio kick boxing and the Krav Beginners class. I made it! My journey to get healthy is real. Kevin's classes are great. He takes the time to explain and listens to the questions. Thank you read more

My wife and I have been members for over two years now and I can confidently say that it is life changing. There's a variety of classes that safely teach hands on combat training and self defense that will not only improve your physicality, but will strengthen your mental acuity, as well. After the multiple lockdowns California had endured, KM Unleashed persevered and not only survived, but thrived and rolled out a brand new state-of-the-art ventilation system and a variety of new inexpensive membership tiers to choose from. For those who want the fat burning heavy bag / Thai pads cardio sessions -- there's a tier for that. For the brave ones who want the full experience of self defense and heavy bag / Thai pads training -- choose either of the gold or silver tiers. The top notch owner Pietro is the best thing to happen to Pasadena. No contracts. No excuses. All fun. Unleash your potential! Krav Maga Unleashed -- best gym in Southern California. read more

Will take all of your contact info and even text you but won't provide any program or financial information without forcing you to get on a call with one of their sales reps If this is how hard it is to get information when I'm thinking of giving them my money then I already know what to expect once they already have it Hard no for me I've been burnt by gyms like this before read more

Pietro and all the subs there know their stuff. Probably one of the best workouts you can get in an hour while learning techniques that could save your life. I started early November and I don't plan to stop anytime soon. read more

I've been wanting to learn Krav Maga for years and finally found the perfect place to learn and practice. Krav Maga Unleashed is a welcoming and supportive environment. This is the best place in Pasadena/San Gabriel Valley to come to learn Krav, challenge yourself, meet awesome people, and gain confidence. The facility is located in a new apartment complex; enter off Walnut and there is retail parking in the garage. The bathrooms and showers are meticulously clean. The training area is brightly lit and open with plenty of room. Staff are always happy to answer any questions and assist. I've never done fitness classes before joining Krav Maga Unleashed. The best part is that everyone is at different levels; you are only competing with yourself to be better than you were yesterday. If you are looking for a challenging fitness experience, look no further than KMU. read more

This has definitely been an experience; the workout, the training, the defense and striking training has been a valuable lesson. I'm very excited to continue developing these lessons with the training provided. read more

One of the best workouts I ever trained in, the Krav Maga instructors are top notch. I started my training in Krav Maga at an OC location where the upper belts had chips on their shoulder. But here, wow, such a big sense of comradely. Here in beginner class you have upper belts still training in beginner classes, who while training help out new classmates. Even though I started here for self-defens, I love the cardio classes also. You walk in and you just can't believe it's a martial arts fighting gym, very clean and the bathrooms and showers look like you're in a nice hotel. I highly recommend it. read more

Krav Maga unleashed is a wholesome business that offers quality service to it's patrons. I love going to my classes. The business leader and instructor Pietro send an open minded shroud in the future for more classes with his students opinions or what ever we might have to say influence how a new set of classes time management may go, which is amazing. I also received 50% off my bill the first month, received a free Krav Maga Unleashed Tee-shirt, and 10% off all my purchases on Merch sold in the Martial arts studio. read more

My daughter has been coming to the gym for 5 months now, and she LOVES it. Coach Jessie, and Coach Jake are knowledgeable, skilled, and have outstanding classroom management. The gym is clean, organized, and safe. My daughter is not only getting exercise, but she has also gained self esteem and made friends with her classmates. She has inspired me to start and I can't wait. read more

I joined a little over a month ago and my experience has been great! The instructors and staff are very knowledgeable and patient and this especially important for a slow learner like me. The facility is very clean and signing up/signing into class is a breeze. Lastly, everyone I've met so far in class has been extremely kind and helpful. I know anyone can join but I have only encountered people truly interested in learning this skill, and all with a positive attitude. I'm not sure if I'll pursue belt testing but with every class I attend I feel stronger, more capable and like I am that much closer to being able to protect myself if things go left. This place is truly a hidden gem. I'm so glad I joined. read more

Our uber shy artistic daughter is loving this martial art school. Pietro is an excellent teacher who focuses on excellent form, safety and application of moves. As a former Kenpo Student I'm glad my daughter has found this space to learn a new artform. Highly recommend Krav Maga Unyted!! read more

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I've been training at Krav Maga Unleashed for a few years now. And I've skimmed down and toned up. I've also made friends with the other people in class. Everyone is helpful and willing to help out with tips. read more

Excellent class to get in great shape and learn self defense as a perk. All great instructors so far to push you into shape and give you much needed motivation on proper techniques to keep you wanting on coming back to master your self defense and confidence. You have different levels of skills and makes it fun without any stress on having to keep up with members who been doing it for months. My son loves every class he has been attending and you can tell all other participants keep coming back for more. Highly recommended to get into shape or and learn some much needed self defense to protect yourself or family. All staff are super professional, friendly and make coming to class a blast. Great investment on making yourself feel more confident and getting you into excellent shape. read more

The gym just opened, it's the second of two...the first one being in DTLA. It's a great location ( close to home in Pasadena ) and a really great facility. I've done various martial arts all my life, and am an avid fitness enthusiast. Krav Maga Unyted Pasadena offers a variety of classes, and if you want a good sweat....you can't go wrong with taking any of the classes. The Krav Maga classes will teach you self defense skills, but will also get your heart rate up and the sweat pouring. My favorite is the heavy bag class, it encompasses all aspects of striking from kicking, knees, elbows, punches to jumping rope, push ups, sit ups etc and general calisthenics as a warm up before getting into the striking part of the class. I find the instructors to be extremely knowledgeable, skilled and very helpful...especially to newbies. It's a friendly bunch of people who know how to kick some serious ass. I highly recommend checking out Krav Maga Pasadena. read more

Our 14 and 16 year old daughters have trained at this fantastic studio for the past few months. Our girls have trained in Brazilian jujitsu for the last eight years but we wanted them to have additional training that was even more self-defense/reaction oriented. Pietro and excellent his group of trainers treat you more like family than just another client and you can see the care and passion they have in what they do. If you have any questions regarding training in their studio, do contact them directly as they actually take the time to be of help to you. My family & I are grateful to have found them. Their studio is always clean and there is free street parking and some underground garage parking as well. The other Krav Maga students are also very nice and you are strongly encouraged to train hard. Cheers! Dr. Michael Pangelinan read more

I don't really know what to say. The owner clearly has issues and is inflexible. I got injured training. Took some time off and tried to come back but was blocked the first time. The second time I tried I missed an appointment due to family scheduling problems and I even let them know but I was scolded for wasting staff time. As a result of missing a scheduled appointment they exclude me from the facility? I have never been kicked out of any place and I consider myself a kind and easy going person. If you like rules, six hour belt tests, rigidity and an owner that is easily angered, this is your place. Be careful. read more

I can't say enough good things about this. This studio offers amazing classes that are extremely fun and challenging. The people are extremely nice- no egos. The instructors don't compromise on the quality of the instruction-they want to make sure you learn things the correct way. It is a fun environment because you can get as much out of it as you want and challenge yourself at your own pace. Definitely the best way possible to lose weight and stay healthy. I highly recommend it. read more

KravMaga Unleashed is an awesome facility. Pietro knows what he is doing and loves it. Will make you sweat from the moment you get started. The gym itself is kept clean and it shows every time you step in, super important given the current climate. read more

Thought this was a cool spot but the cancelation process was not easy. They try to talk you out of it then delay the cancelation process.

This gym is fantastic. The trainers all know their stuff, and the work outs do their job. This is a great way to build confidence and get in shape, all while having a little fun. I highly recommend this gym. read more

Pietro is rare among Krav Maga instructors. He's welcoming, patient, and encouraging. He's friendly and even funny. But, don't let any of that fool you. He's also hard core. He will push you beyond your limits, both physically and mentally, to ensure that you're prepared to face whatever challenges you might encounter in life. He's a superb teacher whose extensive knowledge and skills have been forged not only from many years of training but from real world experiences. He will keep pushing you until you're fit, confident, and prepared. read more

Class is definitely highly recommended. Amazing teacher/class. The teacher is very welcoming, attentive and easygoing. Definitely would revisit. read more

Great place to start training whether you have prior martial arts experience or not. instructors are extremely knowledgeable and dedicated. The atmosphere is supportive and challenging. I haven't experienced workouts that intense since playing college football and rugby about 30 years ago. The mindset at Krav Maga Unleashed is to arm you with the tools, so that you can be your own solution to a real world problem(s) you may one day face. read more

Great instruction that focuses upon basic fundamentals and builds an aggressive and tough mindset. The instructors are engaging and top notch that push you to be the best that you can be so that you are prepared for the worst case scenario. The community also makes this a special place. read more

It's a great place where you will find a highly student centered learning experience with coaches that are socially intelligent making the place extremely enjoyable. By the way you truly learn how to defend yourself. read more

Best gym ever, hands down! Their trainers are amazing!! It's so clean and so new and makes you feel so safe! They push you to your limits and you feel the burn. No yearly contracts make it a no brainer to sign up. Do it. read more

The staff is very professional and informative about both the training programs and safety considerations of the facility. They are exceptionally friendly and supportive. The studio offers an abundance of classes that makes scheduling easy. The variety of experiences and levels in the classes makes it fun and interesting every class. I saw some promos for another fitness studio and we did all of the same exercises in our conditioning alone. My friends and colleagues with years of lots of experience in Jujitsu, MMA and boxing have all been impressed with the progress and techniques I've shared with them in such a short time. read more

Krav Maga as self defense is practical, the instructors are awesome, and all students are supportive of each other