Great people and students! Very welcoming and top notch level instruction. Gym offers a great…read morevariety of classes to meet each individuals personal goals and specific needs. Good use of space and centrally located to lots of healthy food choices and shops. Plenty of parking and clean restrooms. If you are looking for legit instruction, make sure to check them out!!!

Adding an update here: the billing team did finally get back to me and the owner of the business…read moreended up calling which was nice. Please make billing team more accessible for the future though!

Training here has been such an unbelievable experience , this gym is great for anyone from a day…read moreone beginner up to a professional fighter. The Muay Thai coaching is some of the best I've experienced in many years between instructors who have fought at the highest levels , won national titles and local champions etc .. facilities and equipment are clean and plentiful. Robust kids program and grappling as well. If you're in the area do yourself a favor and train here as soon as you can ! Edit : And to be clear , I'm from out of town on business , didn't know anyone here and the front staff , coaches , and members did a fantastic job making me feel welcomed and invited in a new place.

Coming to Pentagon MMA was the best decision I've made in a while. Classes are always challenging…read moreand tiring in the best way. And the staff are all very kind and welcoming. They're always willing to share any insight or to answer any questions one might have. I'm having a great time getting in shape while gaining confidence and new skills! Thanks all!

This place is really great and the Senseis have a real gift with children especially Sensie Sean…read more I'm so happy to have found this place.

I'm not normally the person to write reviews, but this is one time where I feel like I need to…read morewrite one. When I brought my daughter to Urban Kempo for her introductory lesson, my little girl was backward and shy, not willing or able to stand up for herself. She was too embarrassed to even admit when she didn't hear or understand an instruction from teachers. I wanted her to have the (a) tools and (b) confidence to stand up for herself. That was as far as I was thinking. Full disclosure, I am THAT mom. At our first visit, Mike listened. He wanted to be our partner, to work with us as her parents. He sincerely listened to our goals, my daughter's needs, her history, and the little things that helped him to really connect with her. And she has connected with Mike, Matt, and every other instructor at Urban Kempo. You see, they don't just create a class, they create a family. It is different. The minute that you walk in, you feel the laughter and the genuine concern that everyone has for each other. From my daughter's ER visit to the loss of her dog, from her bad day at school to the Princess of the day (her dojo name changes constantly), Mike and the other instructors really wants to hear about it. The instructors have a way of making learning fun. My daughter now has the goal to be a black belt. I see her more confident, less frightened of new situations. Yes, she is gaining in coordination, but what was more important was that she has gained confidence in herself and pride in the ability in her efforts. Last week, she told me that Mike and Matt needed to talk to the Prince in "Mulan" because they would be able to explain that girls could be strong and fight as well as boys. In that moment, my goal for Kempo was met. And it couldn't have been done without this family that is unique to here, that has been created by the leaders in this dojo.

Best decision I've made towards my health goals. the free class really kicked my ass and that's…read morewhen I knew this was for me. I'm here just about every day. I enjoy the atmosphere. The front desk staff are kind and helpful. Shoutout to Kara who takes pride in her gym! I see her taking positive upgrades in the facility. Coach Beka will really get your heart rate up and make you sweat! Coach Nema will always take his time to stop at your bag and correct your positioning. Coach Spike will keep you on your toes with bag work and new combinations. Coach DeCarlos will help you get into the mind of boxing. Thanks to all of you for always giving us fist bumps after class. Looking forward to more classes and getting to level 2!

Justin is an amazing and super motivational instructor. In his classes I feel like I can accomplish…read moreanything! Joel's classes are insanely energetic and difficult - he has great scrappy tips on how to win a fight. Walter's classes are more technically broken down to explain things and make sure you're doing it all right. Thats not to say he won't kick your ass - his classes are also difficult and he makes you WORK. Spike's classes are difficult but fun - some days he's in a burpee mood, other days he's more lax. His music is great and he fixes your mistakes on the bag! Id say his classes are my go-to on a daily basis.

Evolve All is awesome and I am pleased to leave a review of them…read more I recently checked out Evolve All since I was in town but wanted to train (muay thai/striking) in a friendly learning environment. I was in town for such a short time that it'd be better for me to drop-in classes rather than buying a monthly membership. Evolve All was just the place for that. The owner, Emerson, made me feel welcome when he responded to my inquiry saying that he'll find me someone who'll work with me. That special attention to individuals is definitely what separates a warm/welcoming gym from the rest of the pack. When I went to train, I saw how beautiful the space is. Green and white mats lined practically everywhere. Coach Elijah worked with me and another student and I can honestly say that if I were still in Arlington, VA (I returned to Philly), I would be a member of Evolve All because of my interactions with the staff/coaches, the facility, and the training + community there. Overall, Evolve All is a great family-oriented gym. I can't recommend it enough for anyone who is searching for their next spot to train and looking to level up while still feeling like part of a friendly/welcoming community.

This review is from the perspective of someone new to DC and new to martial arts. I tried two other…read moregyms before settling on EvolveAll. There was hardly a contest, in terms of the welcome my roomie and received, as well as the kindness of the staff and owner. I chose a BJJ membership where I have the opportunity to join about three classes per week (as a beginner, more as you grow), access to a weight-lifting space, and free reign to practice rolling when there is a free mat. I CANNOT speak enough about the amazing crew that runs EvolveAll. The owner and general manager take the time to truly make you feel welcomed and excited to be in their space. The instructors are of the highest level and ensure that you understand new moves and drills on an individual level. They make sure to invite experienced members to the beginner classes so that way new members can train with someone who's comfortable with the movements. I HIGHLY recommend EvolveAll for individuals of all ages, skill levels, and fitness. Every class starts with some conditioning, goes into a couple of moves, and ends with optional free rolling.

My daughter and son attend Jhoon Rhee Tae Kwon Do and we couldn't be happier. The instructors are…read moretruly exceptional--they remember every child's name, offer seamless and well-structured instruction, and tailor their approach to each student's needs. Every child receives individual attention to help them progress confidently and correctly. The school is extremely organized and runs like a well-oiled machine. You can tell the staff genuinely cares about the kids and their growth. My children love coming here, and we've seen such positive development in their skills and confidence. I highly recommend this school to any parent looking for a supportive, professional, and top-notch martial arts program!

We have had an incredible experience at this studio. Masters Shackelford, Pineda, Hawk, and Rome…read morehave all played key roles in our daughters' development. Our youngest was a student there when she was very young, and the support she was incredible. As her parents we were in awe of just how committed to her well-being they were. Now that her older sister is a student, we are so appreciative of the skills and lessons she's learning, that are helping her to be a better athlete, but also respectful and hard working young adult. We highly recommend this studio to anyone!! Everyone there is wonderful! Layton G

I've been wanting to train here for years so the bar was high and it exceeded expectations from the…read moreminute I walked in the door! The environment was so friendly and welcoming. Family oriented with kids and parents all there to hang and train. Snacks and some play areas for kids and a beautiful bright matted area with amazing pictures from Ryans career fighting and cornering the most recognizable faces in the game. The instruction was absolutely incredible I cannot recommend Ryan and his academy more. Definitely check it out if you are in the area I wish I could train here more! - Nick Lamagna

High recommend this martial arts academy!…read more Our kids have been going here for about 10 months and love it. Started with BJJ, but then switched to capoeira which they enjoyed more because of the acrobatics. The coaches and staff are really supportive and patient with the kids. The gym is pretty big and they have cameras so parents can observe from the lobby. Parking can be tough if you don't get there early, but there's room on the neighboring side streets which aren't too far away. Typically there's always people leaving between classes so I have always been able to find a stall. The prices are reasonable. Upfront costs may seem high, but it includes the uniform and which they need anyway. Otherwise it's a great price. They also offer discounts for siblings, military, etc.

After my first class I had doubts about whether I should learn Krav Maga under Brian or should I…read morereturn to Nova MMA where I took three classes in the past. In Nova MMA, I got to actually hit and learn combinations right away. As for Krav Maga Federation, you won't get to this until you pass your beginner test to the yellow belt. That being said, I do not regret sticking to KMF and not learning under a different instructor. After a few classes you actually realize that learning combinations and hitting stuff might not be the best idea because your form is awful and needs some serious work. Our classes are usually small, so Brian will give you a lot of attention. Even if you are standing in the back, Brian will see you and pick on you until you get the form right. Now, speaking about Brian. He is really patient with us. He will ask us after showing a new move or re-showing us a new move, if we have any question. If we do, he will answer the question regardless of how repetitive the question is or how ridiculous it might be. I haven't done any martial arts since I was a child and I didn't think I'd do again because I hated every instructor I had when I was a kid. That's different with Brian. However, Brian is a bit strict. He will not allow people to practice if they show up after hours. Keep that in mind when you are signing up for classes. If you are not sure you can make the times then talk with Brian or figure out a way to show up on time. Most of the class usually shows up fifteen minutes early to warm up and stretch and sometimes one will go over a move with Brian. I would definitely recommend KMF for anyone who is looking to learn Krav Maga.

I have over 10 years of martial arts experience in Hapkido, Judo and Taekwando, and must say, Krav…read moreMaga is the most practical thing I've tried. As the other reviews and Wikipedia state (check them for a more in depth description of the art), most martial arts teach based on some rules of fighting -- no groin shots, biting, etc. Krav Maga is all about training you to survive a dangerous situation, and consequently relishes these taboo techniques. It is all about developing your muscle memory and instincts so that, when it really counts, you avoid the deer-in-headlights effect. Ditto for speed/aggression: other martial arts focus on control and fundamentals for years before you get to anything practical. In my experience with Krav Maga, it starts with practicality from the get-go, and control, respect, technical excellence come as a by-product. This brings me to my first critique. I don't feel like people have developed the proper amount of control for the level of techniques we do. On our tests we are supposed to go a full speed and stop right before striking your partner. Yet I can't say that I'm totally confident that I won't get hurt as I train with some of the others. In contrast, I'd trust my Hapkido partners with a full speed spin heel kick to the head. This is probably a difference in philosophy between the Korean martial arts and Krav Maga, and shouldn't be seen as a critique of Krav Maga Federation DC. Likewise with technical excellence. If you want a pretty kick, a beautiful throw, a quiet roll, look elsewhere. If you want a spiritual, cultural, or historic connection to your martial art, Krav Maga probably isn't the best art for you. But if you want to learn how to defend yourself in a practical situation, period, Krav Maga is a go. On that note, Brian, the instructor, is really a great guy, a good teacher, and a skilled practitioner. He's a bit rough around the edges and intimidating at first (don't think about showing up late), but just stick it out and it will pay in spades after a few weeks of training. He's one of the most friendly and dedicated instructors I've had, once I got to know him. Krav Maga Federation DC is also associated closely with Krav Maga Federation, which is based in lower Manhattan and is a powerhouse organisation. I've gone there twice now, had wonderful workouts, played with world experts, and been welcomed as a member of the family (except that one time that Rhon laid into me). All in all I really like this club. If you are not a dainty flower or a meathead you will too. Actually, if you are a dainty flower come anyway. In short time you will not be.

I've been taking Filipino martial arts here since i moved back into the area in 2021. The people…read moreare amazing, the cost of classes is the lowest I've seen. (I've been doing Kali for a long time and have had to pay triple what they charge). I love all the coaches and the community here is really great. The gym is super supportive and coming every week has been a big highlight to my weeks.

The smartest decision I ever made…read more I have been attending this gym for almost a year now. Classes are frequent and at times convenient to all schedules. The instruction is top notch and you will not only get a great workout, but you will learn life saving techniques to get yourself out of trouble. The gym is pretty basic - think no a/c or heat. Train like you fight. They offer Krav Maga, Jiu Jitsu, and Filipino Martial arts (think stick/knife fighting - which is my favorite :)). It's no nonsense, get it done type of training. This isn't training for martial arts sports, you're training to end the fight and get out of the situation. In addition to the classes (almost 7 days a week), you can participate in sparring on Saturday mornings. No invite needed, just show up and feel what it's like to fight someone fighting you rather than a willing victim that you get during the week during training. There is gear you can borrow for the day, but I highly recommend getting your own as soon as possible. There really is no other way to learn to fight than with someone that's uncooperative. This gives you a chance to try a new things that you've learned to see it in action in real-life. You'll love it!

Let me start by saying that if I could give more than 5 stars to a place, this would be it. Shifu…read moreChris and his wife manage and instruct students in this family-owned dojo. Shifu (master in Chinese) Chris is an excellent teacher. He has been doing martial arts for almost his own life, and he is very knowledgeable. He had spent 13 years in China working with different masters. As a result, he is an expert in different styles of martial arts such as Chinese boxing, Kung fu Shaolin. Following his mission to keep Shaolin kung fu alive in the US, he started this dojo in VA. Currently, they offer two free sessions to let people experience the school before joining. I joined this class after participating in two free sessions. The environment and students in the dojo are great. Everybody is friendly and respects each other. From a covid standpoint, everybody wears a mask throughout the class, and there are sanitizers for both hands and equipment. Each session includes warmup, practicing the basics, form, partner work, and meditation at the end. Shifu Chris changes the structure of the class and always has new activities and challenges in each session. After two months of going to this class, I already feel really accomplished. I am able to do basic techniques and self-defense. It had even effects on my day-to-day life and helps me to be more focused. I recommend this class to whoever is looking for martial arts or even looking for a fun and effective workout class.

Wonderful experience, great exercise, friendly classmates. The sessions have everything I enjoy --…read morestretches, warm ups, boxing, defense, individual and partner work, meditation, some qi gong... lots of variety and progressive mental/physical challenges so you're never bored and always growing. I started this class three months ago feeling very out of shape -- and as a total beginner to martial arts. Now, I feel like I have energy enough for classes, plus I'm starting to hit the gym more too and feel less stressed during the work week. It's definitely the kind of work out that isn't a chore -- it's energizing. Come take the two free lessons and try it out for yourself to get hooked too. Shifu Chris and Weiwei, who assists, are patient, thoughtful teachers who care about culture, health, and overall wellbeing. Class is always a positive, welcoming environment.