Best gym in Poway. Family owned and operated. Offers an array of classes for the entire family. My kids and I have been part of this family for 9 years and counting. read more

I came because I like boxing and kickboxing to be in better shape. Poway martial arts has kenpo karatee, Jiu jitsu, boxing and kickboxing. So far, I have taken boxing and kickboXing. Both classes are great. Jordan teaches the boxing class and it is an amazing class. All body workout bag work, partner work, abs, jump rope. Giuseppe teaches boxing on Saturday 11:30-12:30. We did bagwork, partner pad work, run, rope, cross floor footwork drills, burpee, plAnk, aBs...the works. Giuseppe makes the class fun. Since it's close to my house, and I don't like going to the gym, I found a new workout home and also learn boxing and kickboxIng Technique. Price: bought a punch card for 20 classes at $250 including tax. Or membership was around $105-110 / month, which is worth it if you come a lot. read more

You have 3 different disciplines being taught in one school. Boxing, Kenpo Karate, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. You can study any one, or all 3 if you like. However, the most important thing are the teachers. The Matriarch, Mr. B who is retiring after more than 38 years, is leaving the school to his children, Mr. Jordan, and Mrs. Jess who have learned these arts since they could walk. And you couldn't ask for more down to Earth, kind and wonderful people to learn from. Both believe in a friendly, happy environment to learn in, while at the same time ensuring their decades of training are passed onto you so you may, lose weight, become more confident, and defend yourself, or others in any situation. I am 55 years old. I last learned some form of Martial Arts when I was 30 but the school I went to had to close down. I looked for other schools but finding a good teacher is harder than you think. I got away from studying for the next couple decades. I have returned starting anew with Kenpo, and I am happy that these are the people teaching. You may stop in, watch, and even try a class or two to see for yourself. You will discover other black belts such as Mr. Gabe who has been studying here since he was 5, will bring the same joy, and dedication to the art when they teach as well. Mrs. Jess, Mr. Jordan, and Mr. Gabe are here almost every single day the school is open. This is dedication, and a promise to you that you will learn from people who love what they do. read more

Started taking my 4 year old son here a few months ago. At first he was painfully shy and didn't want to participate, but the teachers are very good with kids and they were able to get him out of his shell rather quickly. Now he looks at his teachers like family. He's been coming here 3 days a week and has progressed a great deal. We've also noticed that he's more respectful at home and school. Since the classes are physical in nature, he's usually worn out at the end of the night and falls asleep easer at bed time. He's also calmer too... This has been a very good investment for our son, and look forward to see where this training takes him. read more

Why you'll like it: ADULTS: you're going to get in shape AND if you've never learned how to defend yourself in a fight, you're going to learn that too. GETTING IN SHAPE: I went from a 34" waist to a 31" without changing my diet (although, the increased fitness is definitely making me crave healthier food). LEARNING SELF-DEFENSE: Whether you're in a boxing, kickboxing, or karate class (all available with the base membership), there is a strong emphasis not only on fitness BUT also on technique. Coaches will often walk around the room and fix techniques, giving students context for postures, positions, movement patterns, and striking combinations. KIDS: I have never seen better behaved or more disciplined kids at any gym or dojo. There's a lot of comradery between the children and the higher belts seem to have enough confidence to teach and assist each other in learning new techniques (and with enthusiasm rather than reluctance). Sure, there's the occasional space cadet and the kid who is mesmerized at the idea of playing with the fake wooden swords on the wall, but the instructors are super good about wrangling these kids in and getting them to participate in class. KARATE: There's karate and then there's KENPO KARATE. Poway Martial Arts gives you the latter and it's what you want. Traditional karate has gotten a bad rap for teaching only the "art" of martial arts, leaving practitioners to practice self-defense where everything goes according to plan. But like Mike Tyson said, "Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face." In Kenpo Karate classes, we practice both the art and practical adaptation for fighting, defense, and escaping messy situations. BOXING: Oh, what can I say about the most popular classes at PMA?! They're amazing. But why? 1. Great workout. From beginner to expert, everyone is challenged to their level by coaches who are incredibly aware of every member's current capacity and fitness/boxing goals. 2. Learn how to punch. Just like swimming, punching is something everyone can "sort of do," but not something many people can do with excellence and fluidity. The coaches here come from fighting backgrounds and will often be tweaking techniques on an individual basis throughout the class to clean up how you strike and move in a fight. 3. Learn how to defend yourself. What happens when someone tries to sucker punch you? Do you know how to bob, weave, clinch, parry, roll, pivot, to avoid a big hit or set up your own attack? You will after attending a few boxing classes at PMA as defense plays just as big a role as offense in their curriculum. 4. Bonus: CLASSES ARE FUN!!! So much fun. I cannot stress this enough. You leave having had a great time. That's such a high that I often stay for a second class (something I can only do because they've gotten me in such great shape). KICKBOXING: A hybrid of boxing classes and karate, these classes are highly technical (albeit friendly to beginners), and a great compliment for both boxing enthusiasts who want to learn how to kick as well as karate students who want to punch and kick in a free-form context. WHY YOU WON'T LIKE IT: You're looking to make a scene or be the biggest, baddest dude at the gym. Poway Martial Arts just isn't that kind of gym or dojo. There are some incredibly knowledgeable instructors and students here, but the culture is collaborative and friendly. Every regular here has a genuine interest not only in becoming a better practitioner of their discipline, but in helping you on your journey too. Yes. I love this gym. I hope you'll come and give yourself the chance to love it too. read more

Poway Kenpo Karate has a long history in the city of Poway since 1984! From what started out as 600 sq. ft. has now expanded to 3000 sq. ft. Not only has it expanded in size, but also in what it has to offer. For example, it is the home of The Boxing Club, as well as, their recent and newly added Poway MMA (Mixed Martial Arts). MMA is a full contact combat sport that allows a wide variety of fighting techniques, from a mixture of martial arts traditions and non-traditions, to be used in competitions. At Poway MMA you can compete, train, and/or learn (MMA, pankration, jiu-jitsu, muay thai, combat sambo, boxing, wrestling). Not only does this place have a boxing ring, it also has a full octagon cage. Most importantly, it is a clean, safe and friendly environment. There are several things I appreciate about this place: (1) It offers a wide variety of classes for kids, families, and adults (i.e., pilates, kenpo karate, kickboxing, etc.). (2) This place is that it is family owned by Mr. Barry Barker and they are very involved with the community. (3) The location is convenient, as it is centrally located. As most other gyms you would have to travel far distances for. (4) The trainers and coaches are awesome! read more

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Just tested for my 1st degree Brown Belt at 50.. Actually I am now 51. Being the oldest person in my class isn't an issue. Well sometimes it is a cardio issue but that is why I am there. This is by and far the best martial arts studio in San Diego. If you are thinking of enrolling for yourself or for your kids you need to check it out... Master Barry Barker is one of the best martial artists in San Diego County and in the State... but even better is the skills you will learn. Can't say enough and if I am ready I will finally test for my black belt this summer after 9 years of training... I have loved every minute of it. This is like home. read more

Poway Martial Arts - On the night of the advanced brown belt test. I passed it at 50 years old! - Boxing Near Me - Poway, California

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My son (10 years) and daughter (7 years), have been going to the karate classes for over 3 months now. We initially signed up for the 6 month package which was a difficult decision because it's a big investment. However, I understand why Mr. B sets it up that way. By choosing as a family to sign my kids up for 6 months, we made a commitment to give karate a real shot, to give my kids enough time to see progress and results. I can happily say that this is the first sport that both of my kids are truly enjoying and I'm not having to drag them to class/practice. They are excited when it's M/W/F because that means they can go to karate. They actually practice things at home, and are motivated to move up each level. Mr. B has set things up to keep the kids motivated. They get a sticker for attending each class which add up toward a reward. It seems silly, but it works for my kids, they don't want to miss a class. On top of that, they earn stripes on their belt once they have learned a set amount of skills. It is clearly written out what those skills are, and there's even a video at home that allows the kids to practice on their own. I think my kids really appreciate that they understand what they have to learn in order to move on, and they rewards are spaced out enough that they truly have to earn their next stripe. I also want to add that I feel like Mr. B has been great at getting to know my children and checking in on us throughout our time at Poway Martial Arts. My son broke his arm (at home), but Mr. B was really accommodating by allowing him to still participate in the classes (with a few safety parameters in place). I am so thankful for that because it allowed my son to still be active and participating despite a broken arm. Additionally, my daughter has had a few health struggles along the way, and Mr. B has been great about asking how she is doing, and making sure we knew he was thinking of us. Karate has been such a great addition to my kid's lives. It has given them something active to work on, and feel good about themselves. They are learning self confidence and discipline along the way. Making the commitment to 6 months for 2 kids was scary because I worried what if they hated it, but I'm so glad we made the decision to start our 2 kids at Poway Martial Arts. read more

I went there thinking this was part of the Boxing Club. They are far from it! They use the name The Boxing Club but they are not in anyway connected to them. They actually use so many names to call their business you do not know what to think. BOTTOM LINE IS TO STAY AWAY STAY FAR AWAY!!!!!!!!!!!!! They tried to swindle me into signing up for another membership saying that they were mush better than any club out there. The owner, it seemed wanted to pick a fight with me because I did not want to join. Save your time, go elsewhere! TOO FUNNY, HERE HE GOES AGAIN TRYING TO PICK A FIGHT AND CALLING NAMES! (LOOK AT HiS RESPONSE THAT TOOK A YEAR FOR HIM TO RESPOND) YOU ARE A CLASS ACT........ (I cut and pasted his comment here so he can not delete it or edit it after he relies what an A$$ he made of himself LOL!) FROM THE OWNER HIMSELF: " This knucklehead is annoying. Not sure where to start. We are the original Boxing Club and would never want to be associated or thought of being associated with the Lava Fitness Boxing Club franchise. If this idiot new anything about business he would realize we have different programs under one business name because different people like different things. We have 'The Boxing Club of Poway', Poway Kenpo Karate', 'Poway MMA' and 'Graci-Barra Brazilian Jiu Jitsu of Poway' all under our business name of 'Poway Martial Arts' with 4 training floors and experts on staff in each of these areas. When he has been in business for 27 years at anything like I have been here then he might have some credibility but as it stands now he's an ignorant fool. Next point: How would it be possible for me to be in business this long if I ever tried to 'swindle' anyone. It doesn't happen here and I take it very personal when any idiot can say whatever he wants in a forum like this. My last point is there is no doubt that this is one of the best gyms and karate schools in the county, absolutely true. There are other good gyms and karate schools around and it depends on what someone is looking for but on balance we are near or at the top when you look at longevity, level of instruction and training, facility, polite and friendly staff, etc. BB " read more

10/10 recommend this place. The group class allowed everyone to take the moves at their own pace. I was sweaty at the end without losing my breath! read more

Great for my kids. Youth martial arts is about structure and fun. This place has the belt system, the experienced instructor, and all at an affordable cost. read more

Poway Martial Arts - Children karate Saturday class - Boxing Near Me - Poway, California

Absolutely the best! This is a family business that is dedicated to teaching true martial arts. Mr. B's passion for martial arts is amazing and his continuous involvement in the Poway community is refreshing. What I love about Poway Martial Arts is the fact that it is not about getting people in and then promoting them when they haven't earned it. They are the real deal. You earn your next belt and in doing so it's a great way for kids to learn the importance of discipline while still getting good physical training and having fun. Although I'm not an active student due to my location, it's great to see some of the same faces that I trained with as a child still actively involved with the studio as black belts as well as their kids. My children have participated in camp over the summer here and classes in the past and I give nothing but my highest regard to the instructors and the Barkers :) read more

Don't trust this business. I was specifically told there was no notice policy to stop classes and that autopay was not required. Then after I took classes for a month they started me on autopay without my permission when I paid for my second month of classes. then I injured my back and contacted them to stop my autopay and it took me multiple days of follow up to get them to finally do so. I decided that I was done with them after that and sent them a specific email to permanently stop the autoopay. They continued to deduct the money from my checking account and then claimed 30 days notice was required (even though they had specifically stated in the beginning that no notice was required). BEWARE of this business. It will cost you!! read more

I have trained in 6 different styles in 3 cities across the country and Poway Kenpo Karate is by far the best run school I have seen. They teach good solid martial arts without the ego experienced at many other schools. I have seen the staff take students with minimal athletic ability and nurture them to high ranks. This is done by tailoring instruction to the individual's needs. The results are that all students, regardless of natural aptitude are capable of reaching a high level of proficiency. I couldn't recommend them enough! read more

I went in for a trial class and let me just say this-if you are looking for egos, or maybe you yourself has a big ego and want to share, this is the place to be Edit: With all due respect, Mr B. my comment was not directed at your facility-Poway Kenpo Karate, I originally posted it for the Boxing Club in Poway. I'm not sure how it ended up here. Regarding the egos-the guy at the front desk laughed at me when I asked if they had contracts for membership-he said "name one gym that doesn't have contracts"-I actually named a few....and there was another younger guy who just wouldn't stop giving me tough guy looks read more

I have been a member for 6months, and after shopping around, before I finally joined, I have t tell you that It doesn't get any better than this! Let's start with the facility itself.-- They have a full size Octagon, boxing ring, weight room, bag room, (2) full training floors, and a spacious mat area for MMA! The staff is knowledge, friendly, flexible and professional! Mr. B (the legendary owner) has what seems to be an "open door policy," and is very involved in training, support, and customer service, and has responded to every email I ever sent, as I was a little gun shy of training and had quite a few questions on the different options of types of training and prices (THEIR PRICES CANNOT BE BEAT). He gives FREQUENT discounts, specials, and free classes, and is very good at keeping members informed via email and Facebook! If you have time, or have EVER thought about training in Kenpo Karate, Boxing, Jiu-Jitsu, MMA, or just want to lose weight, I highly recommend this facility--It does not disappoint. Their website offers a FREE training session, where there is NO PRESSURE to join, and at the least you'll walk out with some new skills and a fresh outlook on how MMA gyms should be ran. Oh yeah, I almost forgot! 1) THEY HAVE A WEIGHT ROOM THAT IS INCLUDED IN MEMBERSHIP, SO JUST DROP YOUR GYM MEMBERSHIP, AND YOUR EXCUSES :D 2) I heard from everyone I talked to that they are AMAZING with their children classes, and have perfected the balance between discipline, training, and fun! Check em out! read more

Heads up to parents who are thinking about signing up. Years ago when my children were 9 and 6, they were members. I always thought it was money well spent. There is not a lot of room for a parent to watch and I hate crowds, so I would sit in the car. My kids started complaining they didn't want to go anymore but I persevered. I decided I would just sit on the floor in the doorway and watch to see what went on. My son who was 9 was at a higher belt level than my daughter. I was shocked and appalled at the lesson I was forced to watch. My yellow belt son was up against 3 older brown belts and they were punching and hitting on him so hard he was crying and trying not to bend over with the pain. There were other groups having the same training technique and it seemed the older boys were talking with the student and punching in slow motion so a block could be made or demonstrating how the block should be done. (My son has always had problems getting along with others and I thought this might build friendships from a mutual interest or, as a last resort, a way to defend against bullies.) I decided to go home and talk with him. He did not want to return, naturally. There was a no refund policy even though there were several weeks left in the month, I just left without any prorated refund. I guess I got really angry when they told me that's just how it's done and he should toughen up. My daughter was in a different class and she was testing for her next belt stripe which cost more than $100 at the time. I continued to take my daughter for a few more classes but she was not comfortable there and quit days before the testing. Again, no refund whatsoever for not getting a piece of electrical tape on her belt. I made a formal request for the money for the belt testing but did not receive even a telephone call. The same family runs things still and I would assume the same policies are in effect. Because I believe in two sides, you should know I always paid my bill timely. I was always ready for a conversation if my kids weren't living up to expectations. I cannot think of anything I did or my kids did to deserve to be treated this way. I am still hurting with the memories years later and wish I had more diligent in protecting my child from this so-called self-defense training earlier. read more

I just got a call from this place. They raised their prices 10 dollars a month. Not worth it!

Poway Martial Arts is a great place for learning all aspects of self defense. Mr. B and his staff have really put together a place to learn and feel a part of something. The friends that I have made there are life long and the skills in Kenpo, Muay Thai, Jiu Jitsu and Boxing are just as priceless as the friends. Awsome place to train, awsome people to work with. Love it.....all thumbs up.. read more

My son has been going to Poway Martial Arts for two months now, we were concerned that he would not do well in the class because he is a bit of a day dreamer, but the structure and discipline, that Poway martial arts bases its platform on, has allowed my son to focus and start to grow within the class. His first tournament was two weeks ago were he was able to take home a silver in his division. I highly recommend Poway Martial arts for those who are looking for a structured sports experience and motivation builder for their child. It also really helped with is manners and all around attitude. read more

Phenomenal gym. I started here less than a month ago, but they have exceeded my expectations. I have a physical condition that the trainers go out of their way to help me work around; making modifications, showing me different work outs, and even stretches and other preventative measures to take to make sure i can still work with the class. Extremely happy with these guys. read more

Nice facilities and the coaches are very knowledgeable, but the place lacks members who are serious about competing in MMA. Good place if you are interested in starting out and want to learn Sambo. read more

I would like to include the un-professional response of the owner that in my opinion all should see-including my rebuttals. It clearly in my opinion, shows the owner is extremely unprofessional and hurting for business due to his response. First off, after my son's injury he was not gone for six months. Medical records and attendance and other documentation would clearly show that. Second, the owner called once during the time that my son was out. This is also again very well documented. He wanted to know when we would come back as monthly billing would be starting again. We were not on monthly billing as we had paid 6 months in advance. He also never asked how my son was. In addition, one email was sent after that again regarding billing. The entire duration was not anywhere near six months. In addition, I also mentioned this was the best thing that happened as prior we would run into staff and they wouldn't know this. Mr. Barker is indicating his staff would know us due to our being out six months. Again, we were not out six months and in addition this was going on prior to us being out for my son's injury. The interesting thing is the day we did return, both my husband and I walked into Mr. Barker's office to say hello. Mr. Barker barely said hello, and when he walked out of his office he did not even have any interest to see how our son was doing. It is in my opinion that Mr. Barker should be very fornuate. My son's injury happened at his studio under his instructor's watch. It was a case of clear negligence that we were nice to let go due to his struggling business and decided not to blame them. The law is on my side on that regardless of what his martial contract law states. Should Mr. Barker like to pursue that, I would be fine with that as my son came very close to having surgery. We are still under the Statute of Limitations. Mr. Barker should you feel differently, please have your attorney send me a Letter of Representation and I would be glad to move forward on that. Lastly, Mr. Barker referred to my son's new martial art's studio as a "belt factory." It is quite amusing in my opinion as it shows he is jealous and upset that we have moved on without him. Mr. Barker does not know the name of this studio know what the instruction contains. My son was extremely bored at his studio and now is having the time of his life as well as growing with martial arts. Incidentally, quite a bit of Mr. Barker's former students are coming to our studio. Finally, most that I have spoken to have not put up a negative response due to Mr. Barker's rude and obnoxious ways. It doesn't bother me, and I would encourage anyone to not be intimidated by in my opinion this struggling business owner who can't get his facts straight. Mr. Barker-It might be in your best interest to work on your customer service skills and your branding. As well as paying attention to what goes on in your studio and why people are leaving to what you call "belt-factories." In addition, you are extremely lucky I have not pursued you for legally over negligence at your studio. You stated you were "disappointed in me as a person." To be quite frank, I am disappointed in you as person as well. As a black belt, I would expect you to know your facts, hold your self accountable and learn from criticism. If you would like to pursue me as a liar, sadly you picked the wrong person. I have documented well and can prove my case strongly should you want to continue this. Hi Amanda, I saw you posted a negative review of my business. That is very disappointing to me as I run a high quality school and am always extremely aware of and try to give my members great customer service. I am sure you remember how many times I called and emailed you to check on Michael's status. Your review said you had returned and nobody noticed or seemed to care? When did you return and why would you not have contacted me personally? In addition, my attendance records do not show Michael attending any classes in over 6-months. In fairness to my staff, if he had returned none of them would have seen him in over 6 months so of course they wouldn't know he had an injury. I don't mind legitimate criticism, although I think an adult would call me personally, but the type of exaggeration and even lies you put in that review is uncalled for. Thankfully, most people know that there's a complainer every couple years even for the best of businesses. I am very disappointed in you as a person and I am now also glad you are gone as my successful business does not need customers like you. Best of luck with what sounds like a belt factory school you are now attending. Barry Barker Barry Barker (aka Mr. B) L.Ac., Dipl O.M., MSTOM AMA, 8th Degree Black Belt Owner - Chief Instructor Poway Martial Arts 13246 Poway Rd Poway CA 92064 Bus: 858-486-1003 Cell: 858-735-1603 www.powaymartialarts.com read more

I just joined the MMA classes two weeks ago and I am very pleased with both the trainers and the facility. The workouts are extremely challenging and I am already seeing results. I was given the opportunity to try out 2 of the classes free of charge before making my decision in joining or not which was enough for me. I haven't seen any egos walking around and everyone that I have talked to was more than freindly and very respectful. I am happy to be part of the team and would like to see more people who are serious about MMA competion to come try it out. read more

I took my Daisy Girl Scout troop (6 and 7 year olds) to Poway Martial Arts and the girls resoundingly voted it as our best field trip of the summer. They thoroughly enjoyed the class and some even earned their first stripe on their white belt (which Mr. B provided at no charge). A few of the girls even signed up for ongoing lessons. My daughter has been going to this school for about 8 months and here are a few reasons I recommend it: 1) The teachers are great! They have a unique way of mixing discipline with fun that keeps the kids (and the parents from the lobby) entertained. Although we were sad to see Mr. Josh and Mr. Jordan go, the new teachers (and of course Mr. B!) do a great job of keeping the kids engaged and focused. 2) Kids are constantly making progress. Belt testing takes place four times per year. Mr. B does a great job of ensuring the kids are ready to move on to their next belt. He even lets students take additional lessons the week prior to belt testing at no charge. 3) Family atmosphere. Mr. B adds some special touches to make it fun for the kids. He had a holiday party (crafts, games and prizes) and an easter egg hunt this past year. I also like that he knows all the kids names and that there almost an equal number of girls and boys in the Little Ninjas class. 4) He gives back the community. A few times during the year Mr. B and women that have earned their black belt at Poway Martial Arts hold a free self-defense class for women. As for areas of improvement... The benches in the waiting room aren't all that comfortable. However the small areas for improvement don't detract from a high rating for me. This school provides valuable skills (athleticism, discipline, respect, self defense) in a positive environment. Tip: if you pay up front (6 or 12 months), you get a discount. read more