My daughter Rylee has been attending since she was 7 years old and she is now a very proud black…read morebelt! My youngest daughter also joined last summer and she also loves it! The sensei's are very patient and are great teachers! It gives my girls an outlet away from school and home, keeps them active, focused, and having fun! They look forward to training twice a week. Definitely recommend for kids!

FSKA Milpitas has been a great experience for me as a student. I've seen real improvements in my…read morediscipline, confidence, and overall conditioning since training here. Shihan Kyle is a solid instructor--very knowledgeable, holds high standards, and actually cares about students getting better, not just showing up. Everything about the school is run efficiently. The sign-up process is simple, the payment structure is clear with no confusion, and the scheduling is flexible, which makes it easy to stay consistent. The environment is professional, focused, and motivating. I'd definitely recommend FSKA Milpitas to anyone who's serious about training and improving themselves.

There are many schools in the Silicon Valley, but after searching many, this is the best karate…read more and martial arts dojo. A traditional style of karate taught by a Sensei who trains in Japan every year - so cool! Sensei focuses on high-quality techniques and working hard to earn your next belt. They are in the well maintained Akiyama Wellness Center. This school is perfect if you are a beginner or experienced in karate or another martial art.

From the owner: Established in 1998…read more Seiwakai Karate of Silicon Valleyis a registered state and federal non-profit 501.c.3 (509.a.2). We formed our clun to alleviate the common cycle of dojo closing under the costly financial hardships of doing business and living in the bay area. Goju-Ryu Karate-do was introduced to the USA in San Jose California at San Jose City Cillege by Yoshiaki Ajari in 1954 and follows the teaching methods of Miyagi Chojun (yes there really was a Mr. Miyagi!).

We have been part of this dojo family for the past four years, and our daughter has absolutely…read morethrived here. She trains six days a week and can take up to eight classes, so needless to say, we spend A LOT of time at the dojo. We love how clean the dojo is, the discipline they teach, and the small, intimate, family like atmosphere. Sir and Ma'am are experts in their Kempo teaching style, which is exactly what our daughter needed. Cantrelles Martial Arts has helped her grow not only as a martial artist but as a person. As a parent who has been in quite a few dojos, I have to mention one of my favorite things is this is one of the only dojos I've been to that DOESN'T smell like feet. Unfortunately, the journey at this particular location is coming to an end after October, but that's not the end of our journey with this amazing team. We will be following them into their new chapter at Eastridge mall and continuing three days a week. That says everything about how much we believe in this dojo, the instructors, and the family they have created. We are incredibly grateful for the last four years and excited for what comes next.

This is our first year at this dojo and I am pleased with the results of both my 11 and 9 year…read moreold's training. Each day I pick up my kids from their practice, they are excited to tell me what they've learned and show me their cool new moves. I appreciate the discipline that is taught; it aligns with our kid's life goals. We recently had our 5 year old join. I was a little nervous for his young age and the fact that he has a speech impediment. Although I know both reasons might be more of a challenge for him, the way he is treated equally with respect, compassion, and discipline, shows he is in the right place as well. The exposer to another adult's instruction helps develop his speech. I learned that Cantrelle's Martial Arts has been around for about 20 years or so now and I can attest their business ethic proves what they offer is excellent. It would be amazing to have a bigger waiting space for parents with smaller children to help avoid the distraction of the students, but other than that Cantrelle's Martial Arts has my 5 star all the way!

We invited JACC to perform at our International School Festival this Fall. It was beautiful to see…read morethem perform Kendo, Karate, Iaido and Kyudo with every possible attention to detail. They patiently introduced each art to our students and guests. It was an honor to have them in our school. In the Silicon Valley where everything happens fast, where nobody stops to take a breath, and were children are expected to pay attention to every stimulus, it was surprising and very enjoyable to be part of a culture that is aware of the change of seasons. It was great to see our students realize that they can practice meditation and listen to their own breath to distance themselves and refocus before attempting a challenge. Thank you for showing our families to appreciate the beauty of traditional rituals, and showing them how to slow down to admire little things while everyone around is rushing.

I just started taking Iaido classes here after seeing how much my son enjoys the kendo class…read more Sensei Omi, the founder of the dojo, is amazing! As a Japanese educator, he really cares about the development of children and helping people learn. He sees martial arts as a way to clear and sharpen the mind. He demonstrates martial arts with a non-militaristic approach. At the start of class he has everyone sit down and he sits with them. This is very important especially for children as it demonstrates a willingness to talk with them at eye level and helps kids feel more at ease rather than having adults tower over then giving them instructions. Even adults feel the same way when taking instructions from someone in a higher authority. Lastly they have moved to monthly pricing as their prices weren't keeping up with the increase in building rent. Still, for less than the cost of most gym memberships you get access to multiple classes (kendo, aikido, karate, kyudo, etc). All the instructors donate their time to help keep the spirit of this dojo alive. I hope more people will consider joining.

My kids (11 and 5) started karate at WVMA a little over a year ago. Immediately, I was impressed…read morewith the instructors, who not only teach punches, blocks and kicks, but more importantly, teach self-discipline, self-confidence and self-control. More so, during this challenging time of COVID, West Valley Martial Arts has risen above and beyond. They didn't miss a beat, being the first (even ahead of the school district) to schedule multiple weekly Zoom classes and create fun contests to keep the kids engaged - from a distance. As it was declared safe to do, they have carefully and thoughtfully planned in-person, small classes, setting up canopies and mats outside to create their parking lot dojo. They do all this safely, requiring health questionnaires and temperature checks prior to class. I can not praise Sensei Dan, Sensei Lucas, Senpai Paula and the rest of WVMA staff enough for showing the kids what it means to have grit.

Our child went to WVMA. All of the instructors were great,…read morebut the place just got more and more crowded. There are just way too many kids in a class for the size of the place. SUPER crowded! And the more and more crowded it got, the more and more chaotic the floor got and that led to less and less instruction for the kids. I wish it didn't get so bad, because we really liked it there! They desperately need to limit the class size!

My son has been training here since he was 2 and recently earned his Little Pandas purple belt. The…read morecoaches are patient, friendly, and work very well with kids. My son is engaged in the classes and the coaches are great at redirecting his focus and attention when it wanes. It's been a joy to watch my son grow in his confidence and skills in these classes. My daughter, who is now 2, enjoys interacting with coach Jarad who teaches the Little Grasshoppers class in a silly and very engaging way with the toddlers. We love it here!

Kung Fu Kids is a wonderful place! My son began this past May and has grown so much since. All the…read morecoaches are great! A special shout out to Coach Corey who has played a significant part in my son's success especially with his confidence. Coach Corey is very caring and patient when it comes to teaching all the techniques. My son looks forward to seeing Coach Corey and all the coaches when it's time for class each week. Thank you Kung Fu Kids!

As a former instructor at San Jose Shotokan, I have to say that this dojo, as well as the broader…read moreSKA organization, is top notch for traditional martial arts instruction. As a non-profit, it is more concerned with perfecting simple but effective techniques, rather than flashy moves. Such skills originated in Okinawa when it was subjugated by feudal Japan. Openhanded self-defense against a samurai determined what techniques were most effective. Likewise, at that time Karate practice was forbidden and it was taught in secret. This history influences the current Shotokan Karate of America (SKA) culture. We follow a traditional passage of the art from teacher to student without adding any personal biases. It is analogous to a pure bread dog. If you are interested in improving yourself, your sense of confidence, by challenging yourself to new limits, then SKA and San Jose Shotokan is the organization for you. Kevin Floyd

I started taking the Krav Maga classes because I could take a class at the same time my 10-year-old…read moreson was taking the kid's Krav class. It allowed me to get an extra hour of a workout in during the week and now I'm hooked! Krav is a real world self-defense that makes me feel strong and prepares me for real life situations. ASD also offers many other classes and so many talented instructors! Coach Shayne has been a big influence on myself and my husband. He continues to help us learn proper fighting techniques. Andrea is an awesome coach who continues to amaze us! Amit, Troy, Chris, Sergey, Marziya, and Jason have all taught me so much in Krav. Ilya's Hyrox and Fighter Flow classes are fun and a great workout! He also has a cook book that explains easy and healthy recipes! Manny's Boot Camp/kickboxing classes are always intense and will leave you sore. James' DEKA class was creative, hard and definitely worth a try! My son has enjoyed the Kids Krav classes....thank you James, Andrea, Anh and Marziya for teaching the big group of kids! I love watching him come home and practice and share what he learned. We often compare what we are all doing in class during the week. I can't forget Neal, the owner! And Carrie at the front desk! They always make us feel welcome and at home! I joined the Locked In For Summer Challenge that they organized at ASD. It has helped me stay focused on my nutrition and fitness goals. And has helped me meet some new friends! Overall, ASD is a super special place. I'm so glad my family found it and I'd recommend it to anyone interested!

I came to this gym on their trial period, and I have to say, they are VERY generous with the 2-week…read morefree trial, which is honestly pretty rare! What I really liked about this gym was the variety of classes they offer. You can try different types of workouts and figure out what you enjoy without having to commit right away. They also let you borrow gloves and other equipment for free during the trial classes, which I thought was a really nice touch. I ended up trying the HIIT and DEKA classes, which were my favorites, and most of the coaches I had were really great. Unfortunately, my experience with one of the kickboxing classes wasn't as good. I specifically asked multiple times beforehand if it was okay that I was a complete beginner, and I was told that it was totally fine. However, when I showed up, pretty much everyone else already knew what they were doing, so I naturally felt a little intimidated. I also wasn't given much guidance despite being a first-timer. What really bothered me was that the coach called me "silly" when I wasn't able to follow the instructions. I understand that a fast-paced class can be challenging for beginners, but I didn't think making fun of someone who was trying something for the first time was appropriate, and it definitely put a damper on the experience. One other thing I wish they had was a proper locker room or changing area. They have gender-neutral bathrooms, but they didn't feel clean or comfortable enough to change clothes in, especially if you're coming straight from work. I really liked the variety of classes and the generous trial period, and most of my experiences with the coaches were positive. I just wish the beginner experience was a little more welcoming and that they had a better space for changing.

Just attended a self defense workshop and the annual Norcal women's practice which Saratoga Dojo…read morehosted. The Saratoga Dojo is part of Shotokan Karate of America, a non-profit karate organization that was founded in 1955. This dojo has been around for over 25 years and teaches serious, traditional martial arts. They have great instructors who have practices many years and are seasoned instructors of both adults and children. Classes are offered as part of the Group Exercise program at the Southwest YMCA in Saratoga. Come try it out! https://saratoga.ska.org/

I have been practicing at Shotokan Karate of America, Saratoga dojo since 2007, with Craig Hamman…read moreand Curt Wvong as my seniors (dojo leaders). Under their guidance and mentoring, I feel that even as an adult I am growing stronger in mind, body, and spirit. SKA practice emphasizes the development of a strong mentality: polishing of techniques through extensive and exhaustive repetition, committing to one's attack, defense, and counterattack without flinching or bailing, and breaking through one's natural tendency to rest or give up in the face of fatigue or adversity. SKA practice at Saratoga is included with a current Southwest YMCA membership and a single annual SKA fee. Unlike some other martial arts organizations, SKA is a nonprofit organization that does not charge any fees for gradings or require members to purchase SKA-branded equipment. For anyone looking to strengthen their whole self and learn a martial art, I wholeheartedly recommend looking into practice with SKA.

I have been training at this dojo for many years and I love it here - the many people that I've…read moremet, become training partners with (and eventually friends!) along the way make coming to the dojo such a pleasure. ASJ offers many classes for all levels of training - from the youngest child of 5, to the not as young crowd; from a true beginner who is taking that first step into a dojo to the ones who've traveled and visited far more dojos than they can remember; from those that have no idea what aikido is to those that are revisiting aikido - there is a class for everyone! I love how the training here is always changing and growing - there will forever be something that I can learn and pick up every single day I train. All the senior students are helpful and willing to lend a hand. Drop by and try it out!

Coming back to Martial Arts after a 25 year hiatus and a major detour into endurance sport. I…read moreresearched styles of martial arts to take for , ahem, " men of a certain age" and decided that BJJ would be too much and Tai Chi would be too little. Aikido is the middle ground of using flow as opposed to brute force. It's very low key, not like a chain black belt mill for kids, great instuctors and supportive group. I'm about 3 months into this journey and I love it