Amazing classes! So much fun! Last time, I did an archery class with Master Jennifer. That was a good experience! Tonight, I did an archery class with Master Clawson. It was great! Master Clawson is so knowledgeable about the history of archery and anything related to martial arts. He is very open and gives direct feedback on form. His feedback is very helpful. He took extra time with the beginners to provide additional support. I enjoyed seeing the advanced members shoot their bows too. Getting to see that was very inspiring. I love that the environment is filled with respect and discipline. Such a great learning environment. Everyone is so kind and welcoming. If you are on the fence about taking a class here, just go for it! You won't regret it. I had a ton of fun shooting and I think I got a tiiiiiny bit better from the first class- yay! lol read more

See all

Their schedule online clearly states that they have classes at 9 AM Saturday here at their Orange location, however I'm here and there's no one here (even though the lights are on) and the doors are locked! I called the studio and it went to voicemail. I waited 15 minutes and they are still closed. Super unprofessional and waste of my time! Update. I even stuck around for another hour until 10 AM in an attempt to take the class at 10 AM, but they were still closed. I emailed the studio and they got back to me saying the whole studio is closed today and all the classes are canceled due to an event outside the studio. They should definitely be updating that on their website and/or Instagram! I even checked both before driving there this morning. read more

Pakua OC - Doors locked during time they are supposed to have a class today - Martial Arts Near Me - Orange, California

See all

PaKua is a great family oriented school that teaches a variety of martial arts, yoga, acrobatics, Tai Chi, archery and other aspects. Classes are available for kids and adults. All ages and abilities are welcomed in a very friendly, non-judgmental environment! read more

Pakua OC has made an incredible impact on my life. The fitness and physical resilience that it builds is just one of the many benefits. The friendly and enthusiastic community here supports everyone no matter their ability. The classes are a lot of fun, and each person is encouraged and challenged to grow and improve every time. read more

I felt the need to write a review based off my experience last night. They had a bubble machine outside their shop which sparked my toddlers interest. My hubby mistakenly sat on their bench thinking theirs was the public bench. Not only did the owner of the establishment greet us with kindness, he filled the bubble machine up and put music on for us. We literally were so grateful for the kindness, we observed the people going in and out and thought "how cool they have their own little community and everyone is so kind!". Definitely sparks our interest to look into their classes. I appreciate the friendly atmosphere read more

This is some deep stuff U know those dreams when you are trapped and need to defend yourself but you can't manage a single punch because you feel frozen? I used to have those dreams before I came here and studied as a serious student with Master. Now when ever I dream and see enmities they fear me and I kick their a$$es. Now, instead of feeling trapped and weak like I did when I was a kid i am wielding weapons like a beast. Seriously! The best part is it's not just in my dreams, I do it in real life too! Most people have expectations of what training should be like (so they may be too mental to come here ), but I had barely ever worked out our did sports in my life so I was really open. There is something about finding a real master and trusting the process. Total perpetual transformation and timeless knowledge. Pa Kua is the very best martial arts anyone can ever practice. My whole life I wanted to learn "karate" and I had my mind body and soul blown open and transformed by Master Clawson with real ancient Kung fu techniques that turned me from a scared little wussy to knowing how to take a life and save a life. I went from thinking I knew nothing about anything'll ito being totally confident in who I am as a person. read more

We are so grateful to be a part of the Orange Pakua family. Pakua has been a huge part of the kids life for the last year and a half. My daughter started and 3 and my son at 4. Pakua has helped them learn the meaning of discipline, strength, and self confidence. It is also a great way for the kids to release their energy while learning self defense and building strong bodies and minds. We are so thankful for Master David and all the other staff in the studio for all the work they do to make the experience nothing less than excellent for our kids. read more

Pakua OC - Martial Arts Near Me - Orange, California

My 6 year old son just started the kids karate class and loves it. First he got to try a couple classes for free then he was hooked. Very cool atmosphere and energy. Thanks Master David and everyone! read more

Amazing atmosphere and leadership. Also the ability to train in archery and other fun weapons!! Master David is so good with the kids.

This is a great organization serving the Orange County area in the pursuit of martial arts, yoga, tai chi and understanding of eastern philosophy to help you in your journey of self realization and spiritual enlightenment. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Great instructors offering a true sense of belonging to a organization expanding the greater good of mankind. read more

Pakua OC - Yin yang - Martial Arts Near Me - Orange, California

Families, check this out! A unique feature of PaKua is that all Instructors and Masters provide the aspect of working together as a family, while motivating all students to want to improve their own individual health. My 17+ years in PaKua have been life altering for me! Thank you, PaKua and Master David!! read more

Pakua is a very special place. There is a real sense of community fostered by Master David and many of the co/junior instructors. Master David also takes the time to get to know each of his students, their families, children, and friends we bring along. He also tailors classes to meet the needs of his students--many of whom are young kids. My kids and I have taken classes here for several years. The classes are fun yet challenging although there is really no pressure to perform and allot of encouragement from fellow classmates--many of whom perform at higher and lower levels of skill. I am very appreciative of Master David and his patience. I would never have stepped out of my comfort zone if it were not for Master David and the wonderful/collegial environment he created. Definitely a local business worth supporting! read more

Master David Clawson is a dynamic teacher of all the disciplines that PakuaOC has to offer. He is an awesome and creative leader of a staff of wonderful Masters and Instructors. You can be inspired to join Master Caitlyn's Acrobatics and find balance in Master Chris's Tai Chi class. Master Jennifer will teach you how to shoot arrows Into a bullseye and Master Yvonne will help you toward flexibility and strength in Yoga. All the Masters And Instructors are there to help you achieve whatever goals you have. Get in touch and train with Zoom. Be safe and be healthy read more

I never thought that I would be able to take martial arts classes let alone acrobatics classes. I was wrong! These classes are amazing. I feel like I'm part of something amazing and a family. The masters make everyone fell welcomed and the other students are always welcoming. I'm so glad I've joined and look forward to classes every week! read more

The Pakua plaza school in Orange offers a wide variety of classes for students between 3 and 93. From gentle classes like tai chi to the sweaty workouts of acrobatics and cardio kickboxing, this school offers something for everybody. Although the majority of students take a single discipline, like yoga or martial art, people who have been in the school longer will tell you that the thing that really sets the Plaza apart from other schools and studios is the ability to study several different things from the same set of teachers, so that it all works together. The school features teachers from many different backgrounds and of an assortment of ages, which makes it easy to find someone who fits well with you. From the 18-year old young man who teaches children's martial art to the 50-something (it's not polite to ask!) yoga/martial art ladies, almost anyone can find a teacher who fits with their personal style and who can relate well. The one thing that they all have in common is their love for Pa-Kua and the excellence of their teaching. (In the interest of full disclosure, I should admit that I am one of those excellent teachers, as well as one of the most enthusiastic students in the school.) read more

My Son (Age 8) has been attending Pa Kua Martial Arts classes here for 5+ years, that's right, we started him out when he was only 3! And the instruction has been a very positive influence on him. It has helped teach him discipline, balance, self confidence, self reliance, self respect as well as self protection. All of the instructors here are fantastic no matter what age student you are. The location is a beautiful setting in the heart of Old Towne Orange and a pleasure to visit nearly twice a week for 5 years!! Drop the student off and stroll around old town or relax in the studio. Prices are very reasonable. From the owner: "Pakua Plaza offers classes in Martial Arts, Sitony (Chinese) Yoga, Acrobatics, Tai-Chi, Reflexology, Kids Martial Arts, Sword, Pakua Rhythm, and special family events." read more

Let me say that Pa Kua Plaza Studio is getting a 4/5 thus far since I am merely in my "novice" phase there and I can only imagine things getting better and better as time goes on. (And I want to give them that opportunity!) The classes they offer include Yoga, Acrobatics (!!!), Tai Chi, Reflexology, Edged Weapons, and Pa Kua Martial Arts (AKA: Ba Gua Zhang). I've taken a stab at most classes they have to offer and my personal favorite is Acrobatics. Master Trager is composed of 100% awesome and will really push you to do your best. At the studio, I've had the pleasure of taking class with and from a number of instructors and I absolutely adore them. As a typically solo athlete (runner) it is nice to have that encouragement to test your boundaries and end every class feeling like you're family. And oh, man, what a workout. Seriously, stop by. - Hallifax read more

I have been taking classes with Master David and other Masters over 10 years. The classes are fun and there is strong sense of caring for each student. That's why I keep coming back. read more

I practiced Martial Arts at Pa-Kua Orange for a few years before moving out of town. During my time with Pa-kua I met and worked out with some great people especially Master David Clawson. David is a great teacher and instructor and works hard to help students of all ages, sizes and physical abilities. While my preference was martial arts, Pa-Kua also teaches other skills including yoga, weapons, acrobatics and Tai-chi. The up side: Pakua is all about the individual student. No competition and aggressive fighting. Evaluations are always paced and never pushed. You get to learn at your own rate. No one is going to make you feel bad because you can't kick high or if you have different skill sets. Classes are always varied and will challenge you. You can really get and stay in shape if you attend regularly and work hard. You will get sweaty and get your heart rate up. The down side: there are not that many down sides but I guess if you are looking for an aggressive in your face kill-someone martial art, Pa-kua may not be for you. You will get to practice plenty of basic kicks, punches, blocks, falls and self defense moves, but if you are looking to spar or hit or be hit, Pa-kua won't do it for you. Pa-kua Orange is a great dojo and studio even if you are older - younger - or right in the middle. I give a full two karate hoots on this one. Kyap kyap!! read more

I remembered when I joined here when I was 12 or so after I saw the matrix and I kept bugging my mom to enroll me in a martial art school. she took me to this place next to a philipino store when it was a small location and I was hooked, I'm 20 now and still take classes and always learn something new. I tried kenpo in garden grove with my dad when I was 16 and we had to buy the first month or get it cheaper by paying for a year, so we bought a year and sparring gear too. We ended up sparring and this big guy working with my dad ended up giving him a bloody nose and almost "accidentally" knocked my dad unconscious. I'm writing this because I know my dad doesn't use yelp But seriously picking any martial arts school ask about sparring it can be dangerous if your matched with the wrong person and all the cheaper places I checked out had a contract. read more

I could go to the gym, but with Pa Kua I can learn, slim and grow. It's so much more than just exercise! I am proof that you don't need to be an athlete to do something like martial arts or yoga. I have been a student of Pa Kua for several years, and for me, this is a one stop shop for internal and external knowledge. Pa Kua includes martial arts, tai chi, yoga, weapons, healing, mediation and much more. I am lucky to have found a knowledge that allows me to grow and change the rest of my life! I enjoy the kind and warm atmosphere and I find myself invigorated whenever I attend classes. I also recommend Pa Kua for children. Pa Kua can give your child an opportunity to be fit in mind, body and confidence. Both of my children love Pa Kua and enjoy the energy and the variety of classes available. read more

Choosing a studio to take your young child most often is a difficult task. How do to decide on a studio and discipline that is right for a young mind. Wanting the best for my child I happened by chance to stop into Pakua OC one day while having lunch in the Circle in Orange. I met Master Clawson and he was so kind as to offer for my son to come try out a class to see if it was a good fit for him. My loved the class atmosphere. Classes are broken down by and age and skill level is looked at regularly to keep a child focused and moving in the right direction. Master Clawson teaches more then just martial arts. He promotes growth and good behavors in your child. My son has been going many years. He is now a gray belt and is working very hard to get to black belt. If your searching for a studio I can say with no reservation Master Clawson as well as the other instructors at the OC studio are all going to give your child the best martial arts training. Setting your child up for success in life starts with discipline and Pakua OC gives that and great training in a super fun enviorment that my son looks forward to going to every week. read more

PaKua has been a game changer for me. I've done martial arts my whole life and I love it. The difficult part for me has been that it's "my thing" and even though I have tried to involve my family through the years it hasn't turned out to be "their thing". And so it was hard for me to continue. A few years back I was looking for a martial art for my then 9 year old daughter. OK, I was looking for a new studio, too! But I figured if I found a studio that worked for her and she liked it then it would work for me, too, and we could train together. And I found PaKua (it must have been the right time). Now PaKua is a family activity because there is literally something for everyone. My wife started with Chinese Yoga and then started with energy ways. My daughter started with martial arts and now also does archery. I train in martial arts and have started Chinese Yoga to improve my flexibility (both of mind and body). And our family has become the part of a larger family, not only locally, but worldwide. Personally, I have found in the martial arts something bigger, that I knew was always there, but goes beyond punches and blocks. And getting to experience it with my family as they also grow is so rewarding. I could go on about how I have grown, but all of us must find our own path. I hope that you find yours. read more

I love this place! A great place for children as well as adults with many aspects to choose from to improve physically as well as mentally. Stop by and check it out. read more

I'm well over 60 yrs old; moved down to Orange County about 4 years ago. Did some Tai Chi up north - came down here and ultimately got in touch with Pa-Kua and my life changed. Tai chi was more interactive, and met some wonderful people. The craziness began with the recent Pandemic and I was encouraged by 2 Masters - significantly David Clawson and Liz Filleti to ultimately continue with the ZOOM format with my former Masters. I'm looking forward to be able to interact with them and the students when the dust settles. I have a First Degree in Martial Arts and will have my Second degree in Tai Chi. I started wearing street clothes when I began, slowly but surely I gained the self confidence and knowledge to prove to myself that I can do it - there's no competition. You advance at your own pace with the guidance of your Master/Instructor. If you have any problems that need to addressed, you indicate on the enrollment form and you can voice to the Master/Instructor. It's fun - interact with friends - and move at your own pace! John read more

I've been taking my kids (now 5 & 7) to the Pa-Kua studio in Old Towne Orange for about 2 years now and they LOVE it! It is so amazing to me to see both my kids learn so much about martial arts and grow in the art. My son is already an Orange belt. Master David, the owner, is an amazing person. He's very welcoming and open-hearted. My kids have both been with Master Josh for classes since they each started. Master Josh is the BEST for kids. He's so patient, but at the same time makes them listen and do the work. If you're thinking of getting your kids into martial arts, this is a great studio to start! read more

If you are thinking of participating in any type of martial arts class, you need to check out Pa-Kua Orange. The staff is amazing, they are friendly, kind and respectful. They offer classes for all ages in various disciplines. The environment is clean and safe. Also, its in a great location in the heart of old town orange. Keep up the good work guys. read more

Pa-Kua in Orange has been such a great experience for my son, and my daughter is looking forward until she is old enough to take martial arts lessons as well. Master David is great, he knows every student by name, and Master Kaitlyn is a great teacher; she is patient, fun yet challenging. She is able to engage and positively direct even the most difficult child and over the few years my son has taken lessons, I've seen so many children grow and develop through Kaitlyn's teaching. read more

Hello all. I just started attending the 6:00am Monday,Wednesday yoga classes on March 4th. The instructor is amazing, I cannot believe how motivated I am to get there and how much more flexible I am already. What a great studio, the location is perfect in the Orange Plaza and at 6:00am parking is no problem. You shoud join us, this is not your average yoga class it is an incredible work-out, we would love more people in our class! read more

PaKua is an amazing discipline to study. It's a fantastic opportunity for confidence building and mindfulness training. Master David Clawson the studio owner follows his students abilities and ensures growth and development based on individual ability. Although you work with others on the mat, the true growth is within oneself. This discipline isn't about the "fight!" The discipline is about simply said "discipline!" I love the art because of this. Master David truly cares about his students. You would be hard pressed to find a studio where the Master cares more than that of Master Clawson. If you want to learn about the discipline, just "try" a class. You'll know right away if it's for you. The school offers yoga, martial arts, aged weapons and more! Drop by you'll learn all about the staff and the schools offerings. read more

This studio is beautiful, and Pakua is great for one on one. I am fairly new, so the extra help is something I am greatful for. Plus, I don't feel like I need to take a class to in order to TAKE the class. read more

I love Pakua Plaza Studio! I feel better and my body is more fit. My very favorite is the camaraderie. Everyone is pleasant and supportive. Master Marcy is so much more than your usual Yoga instructor. We are like "family" in our Tues/Thurs morning Sintony. read more

When thinking of a martial arts studio and the instructors/masters/personnel that run it, I think most would envision things like discipline, kindness, communication, organization, aiming to meet objective goals, and a peaceful and safe environment. Unfortunately, this was not my experience. The classes with other students and instructors were intimidating, with others involved, cold and unfriendly. After class, many (mostly the instructors) would bunch up in their comfortable little groups, with only one main instructor being kind and supportive. He is the owner and seemed to care a bit more than the others. Even when I reached out, I was surprised by many Luke warm reactions. The higher belts would hang out together. I would not have been as surprised if this was the case among students, but was disappointed and frustrated that instructors that have been trained by the owner and main master for many years would be cold, arrogant, and not make an effort to get to know me and many others. My son enjoyed his classes for awhile and made it up to a higher belt, but he and I became very frustrated that there were no guidelines on achieving goals and their next belts. This was all based on the instructors experience with the child, but we had no clue what they were looking for. Also, they learned many exciting techniques, but rarely were we informed of why student was being shown this or how it would be beneficial. I understand that it is not meant to be a competition, but for an 8 year old kid to continue to move up through a few belts, without any enthusiasm, little training, and the inability to kick hire than a few inches off the ground, is embarrassing. Many of these kids had no clue! Also, I guess it is part of the program where they let the kids interpret on their own how they are to do the kicks, punches, etc. I saw very little instruction on showing the kids how to do it, what they were doing incorrectly, using positive reinforcement, etc. although, when the kids would get ancy, loud, talk excessively, or misbehave, the instructors would get upset, often yell, have them do push-ups. Again, I liked seeing my son get a bit more disciplined, talk a bit less, take pride in helping the other kids a bit, but there was much more negative reinforcement than positive. I also didn't appreciate that my son would receive a punishment when he was doing what he was supposed to, but the other kids (usually the new ones) would screw off and the entire group would suffer for it. I am not suggesting that my son wouldn't screw off on occasion, because he would, but to punish others that have no control over the other kids, and that helping, being kind, and encouraging the kids was frowned upon is not right. I won't go in to deep on these items, but must mention that communication and organization was non existence. Much of the personnel wasn't paid or were paid very little, and because of this, there were only a few that showed true leadership and passion. With all of this happening, you can guess that there was little peace in our experience. What started off as a positive for my son, ended with frustration, disappointment, and a big hit to his confidence. Obviously, I would highly recommend pursuing another form of martial arts or another sport altogether. One that promotes improvement, camaraderie, positive reinforcement, positive recognition on goals that are objective and measurable. read more

I have been attending Pa-Kua for many years now in the sintony yoga classes and acrobatics classes. It is more than just a studio that I attend for a class and leave. Pa-Kua is a place where the classes are taught with the goal of helping students harmonize all areas of their life. I have become more aware of myself as a student of Pa-Kua. I have learned how to balance my strengths and weaknesses and Pa-Kua has given me to tools to help me keep growning physically, mentally, and spiritually. I would highly recommend taking any class at Pa-Kua as the instructors are wonderful and the energy is great!! :) read more