Joseph, the owner and professor is great with kids and adults…read more He is passionate about his work and has a great sense of humor while still very serious about the art.

You'll almost always feel welcome here. Especially if you are a child, for example, a 12-year-old…read moregirl lost count of an exercise she was doing, and he snapped at her & asked if he needed to count for her! He will call the kids boy or girl rather than by their actual name to make them feel worse. He used the excuse that this is a rough sport to justify his abuse. He even laughed at a little boy who had accidentally gotten hurt and mocked his pain by saying, "Blood, sweat, & tears!" And he didn't even check to see if he was okay or tell his parents what happened to him, what if he got a bruise or god forbid was bleeding?! He views their failures as burdens for him rather than obstacles for them to overcome. And the curriculum is seemingly too random and doesn't focus enough on systems. He will sometimes pressure the good kids for no discernible reason; that makes no sense. So if you believe teachers shouldn't be held accountable but children should, then this place is for you! He couldn't even look me in the eye when he told me to trust his process, but he screams at a little boy to look at him when he is carelessly reprimanding him. He will use any excuse to scream at the kids instead of being more patient with them. My entire journey with him was boiling frog syndrome. All these kids he's tormenting with his childlike screaming and lies are gonna have broken brains, good job! It would be extremely helpful if he asked his students for feedback and found ways to improve his methods instead of losing his temper. He just drops random stuff on us and expects us to do it perfectly. He laughed when I misheard his instructions, and he enjoys humiliating his students in front of everyone and thinks it's good. He'd better get it right if he doesn't want his precious trophies to stop coming in. I have lost my temper here before I admit it. And maybe some kids who need to be pushed, everyone is different. But do you really want to take that risk with every kid? And yes, I overreacted when he posted an Instagram story where he joked about not turning on the a/c during a hot day of 2024. He also had this competition training technique, I think he called Red Alert, where if your opponent is being unfair and breaks your arm, he won't do anything about it. And the sweat test, which I previously mentioned. And as mentioned in my previous review, there was the 200 squats group punishment, but what I haven't mentioned about it was how he unnervingly laughed about the way the tears streamed down their face. That is a form of corporal punishment. And I can't abide that because it is immoral. He often lets the kids play a bit after class, and there was one time when a little boy was playing tag with his brother wasn't playing tag. And they acted like he hit him and threatened him 100 burpees if he did it again. Instead of hearing his side of the story and then Coach Nate mocked him for being scared of Coach Joseph. He has done kind things for them from time to time, but that's not going to cancel out all the harshness he has and still is inflicting on his students. Provoking hope amuses sadists. And I may have misunderstood Coach Martinez jokingly calling some kids liars. I also misjudged the capoeira/MMA coach; he is a good man who just has a really intense way of teaching. He used his dog to distract the students during one of the comp classes, and got mad at them for looking at her. It's an imbalanced power disparity. Then there is the matter of those martial arts camps he is a part of. The way he described them made it sound like he'll break the kid's spirits with pain to "help" them. Kids don't have the option to leave unless their parent(s) or guardians say otherwise. And he said, "We will do in a month what the parents won't dare do in a lifetime." Seems like he thinks he can raise them better. Hardly any kids will tell someone about this abuse since most kids don't do that. I should know, I've been there. They often don't know how to express themselves yet. He hates their innocence, and that fake smile and condescending laugh of his. He said no matter what I say about him, he won't hold it against me. All that talk of integrity, and this is how he acts. He called two young boys weak for having soccer practice every other week, something they can't control. He also mocked me in a direct message on Instagram for having a rough childhood and "taking it out on everyone!" Don't trust this man to respect physical boundaries either. He would often snatch away my headphones to check them out or caress me without my consent. He also forced us to ask a question, so I asked the first one that popped into my head. And it wasn't very good, and the next day he said he had a new rule. Where every question will go through him first before asking a guest coach. "Because some of you have been asking some really stupid questions." He says. That's a wonderful way to talk about your autistic pupil. He also gaslights a lot.

My son is typically a quiet and shy kid, and at first, getting him to attend kung fu class was a…read morechallenge. He didn't want to be around the other kids, and there were times he wasn't on his best behavior. But Sifu's patience, encouragement, and genuine care made all the difference. Now, my son's attitude and confidence have completely transformed. He's gone from hesitant to excited--he even performed in a Kung Fu performance, something I never thought I'd see him do! He has fun at every class and has learned so much more than just Kung Fu. This program emphasizes healthy eating, reading, positive attitude/mindset, and consistent practice. It's not just about physical skills--it's about building strong character and life habits. I can see my son growing not only in his kung fu abilities, but as a confident, respectful, and motivated young person. Words cannot express how grateful I am for Sifu and his program.If you're looking for a place that truly cares about your child's growth both inside and outside, then US Kung Fu Center is it!

Enrolling my son and daughter at the US Kung Fu Center has been one of the best decisions I've made…read morefor them. Not only are they staying active and learning self-defense, but they've also gained discipline, patience, confidence, and focus. They had tried many other activities in the past but quickly lost interest--Kung Fu has kept them motivated and excited to keep learning. Sifu has been guiding them since day one with incredible patience and encouragement, while his assistant Jackie always brings positivity and support to every class. Together, they create an environment where kids learn respect, humility, dedication, and the importance of having a good attitude. On top of that, my kids have improved their balance, coordination, flexibility, and mental resilience. I'm so grateful we found the US Kung Fu Center--it's not just a martial arts school, it's a place where kids grow into confident, respectful, and well-rounded individuals.

I've been coming to strikers since February 2025 and it has been an incredible experience! Coach…read moreJoe is truly one of the most excellent teachers I've ever met. The space he cultivates here isn't your run of the mill martial arts gym. It's an encouraging, collaborative, and welcoming learning environment where Coach takes time to focus on and refine technical skill, depth of knowledge, and rhythm. I recall in particular how Coach Joe took the time to fix my middle kick in a way that really clicked. He takes special care and attention to help you learn not only the proper form of a move but also the why behind it. Once you have it, it's impossible to forget. If he takes the time to help you correct something, just know that he believes in your capacity for growth and improvement. He is a wellspring of expertise. This learning environment is also reinforced by the athletes and experienced students who I've had the pleasure of training with. Through drills and sparring, everyone works to support each other and reinforce our learning. What you get here is not just an education; it's also a didactic community. I can't recommend this gym enough.

We took our very gentle and sweet six year old here one summer after a bullying incident where we…read morerealized she needed some skills and confidence to defend against a brat at school. Duveen was a phenomenal teacher and we saw great progress in just one summer. She is skilled at teaching, has patience and keeps the classes engaging and varied enough to maintain the students' attention. Although our child was not in love with the sport as she is with other activities, we felt it was a very valuable experience and a summer well-spent.

Training with Sifu Tom Wong has been an incredible experience! His deep knowledge of martial arts…read moreand Wing Chun has helped me grow physically and mentally. He has a patient and encouraging teaching style and the classes are engaging for everybody. Highly recommend Sifu Wong to anyone looking to learn martial arts from a true master!

Learning from Sifu Wong has been an amazing journey. The most memorable moment for me was whenever…read moreSifu would demonstrate moves on me. From his front kick, side kick, to sparring with him. Each moment shows a great depth of knowledge and experience that I am grateful to be a part of and learn. When Sifu demonstrated the front kick to the class, I saw how quick and powerful it was. It showed that Sifu was not just for show but authentic to its core. When Sifu performed the side kick while I was holding the kicking shield, it was a completely different feel compared to others. Even though it was a demonstration kick with the kicking shield, I still had the air knocked out of me. It was this moment, I realized the proof of Sifu's training and how important it is. One of the most memorable moment I had was when I had the opportunity to spar Sifu. Although I felt as if I was quick, I was only able to keep up with Sifu for a few punches. Through those few punches, I knew Sifu had already trapped me in a vulnerable position and all I could do was block the flurry of punches. As I continue to learn from Sifu, the more I can see how he was able to trap me and put me in that situation.

In 2009, I had the privilege to briefly study under Gary Lam when his school was still in the…read morebackyard. While I could only attend 1x/week for about 4 months, it profoundly impacted my understanding of Wing Chun and its application. From the first day, it was clear that this was in the Wong Shun Leung lineage. Sifu Gary has made it his own system, and there isn't any contradiction in the learning or application process. There is no belt system, but the system is clearly laid out and understandable. Progress was skill-based, not by frequency of attendance or amount of money paid. Your proficiency was determined when Sifu would observe you & tell you when it was time to learn the next thing. You also had the chance to learn from senior students, and everyone I worked with was generous in sharing knowledge. Gathering for Sifu's demonstrations & explanations was always so helpful to learn by observation and experience. Though it has been ages since I've attended as a student, I am greatly indebted to Sifu & his son for taking me in for the brief period I learned from the GLWC system. Excellent Wing Chun school & highly recommended! PS: Still waiting for a GLWC branch to open here in San Diego!

Went there for about 8 months around 2013... Phenomenol training. Too far for my commute however…read more Recommend headquarters location over satellite location.

I love taking classes here everyone is very polite and always there to help you…read more The instructors know what they are doing , they have years of experience in aikido and they adjusts their teachings to every student capacity and level of training . Oh btw if you are a full time student or a member of the military they give you a discount

A great group of instructors! Training is available for all levels, from beginner to advanced…read morepractitioners. If you are looking to try a martial art that will teach you self defense skills, improve your agility, and get you in shape, this is a great place to start with a great group of people!!

the real deal elite knowledge, elite standards, and a genuine passion for making every student…read morebetter. The coaches and professors across the board are phenomenal: technical, patient, and deeply invested in your growth on and off the mats. If you want real BJJ, clean technique, intelligent training, and an environment that pushes you to improve every single day, this is it. Kaizen offers some of the best technical Jiu-Jitsu in South Pasadena, and honestly, one of the best schools in all of LA.

Jiujitsu Kaizen has been such a blessing for our family. It started with our son, then my husband…read morejoined, and finally me. The coaches are patient, encouraging, and really focus on discipline and respect. We've seen so much growth not just in skills but in confidence and character. It's more than just training--it's a community we're grateful to be part of. We definitely love learning from Coach Edwin, Coach Jason, and Coach David.

Been coming here 4 years and it feels like my home away from home. They are welcoming from day one…read moreand the coaches are high level. The owner Savant was a top 10 featherweight in his prime and always pays close attention to each student. Coach Chris though is light work every time

I cannot stress how much I loved my time at Fight Academy Pasadena. I had been training for 5 years…read moreat different gyms (jiu jitsu) before finding Fight Academy and I stayed there for the last 2 years I was based in LA. EASILY the best training, community, vibes, and biggest improvement in my fitness and combat sports training was here. Savant leads an amazing team of coaches!

Sifu Eddie Torres is a real master of his craft. His school helped me a lot not only learning the…read moreauthentic style of Ng Ga Kuen but also becoming a better person when it comes to self-discipline, persistence, patience, team work, listening, and empathy to others. Master Eddie has great love for the art of kung fu, and even embodies the culture and its history to his teachings. His concern not only focuses on the movements itself, but also extends to the well being of his students. The teachings are very detailed and concise, which will help anyone to be groomed as "warrior" of their own. Despite of the techniques, his school gives value to fundamentals, such as flow of movement, respect, strength, honor, control, temperance, radiance, and grace. I'll definitely recommend checking the school out, and see for yourself if it is a great fit!

much respect to Sifu Torres. I am very impressed. my utmost gratitude to you. i stumbled on to…read moreyour site as i was scanning to buy real estate. it brings back memories of my Sifu in the Philippines. GM Lo King Hwei. his son, Henry is now the GM there. it gives me inner joy to see that 5 family kungfu is active in SoCal through you. deep deep respect. i bow to you three times.

I highly recommend this self defense class with RAW Power Real World Defense - an invaluable…read moreexperience to help with confidence, awareness and self esteem. Great staff who is very supportive and knowledgeable and there to help!

I recently took Meredith's 4-hour Foundation workshop and have been talking about it to anyone who…read morewill listen! It is a very unique opportunity to learn and practice full-force self defense techniques in a way that is safe for both the participants and facilitators. Meredith and her team are incredibly skilled at tailoring the instruction to each individual and creating a supportive environment. Highly recommend!!