Jeff is very knowledgeable and cares about his students of all skill levels. Just show up, be…read morerespectful to everyone, and be willing to learn. Understand it takes time and work/effort. You will reap many benefits.

My son goes to this martial arts studio led by Jeff Frater and my husband and I are truly happy…read morewith Jeff's teaching strategy and method. I highly recommend this place for every parent who wants their child to be disciplined, to have self-respect and respect for others, especially parents. My son goes there 4 times a week for 2 hours. There is a possibility to attend 13 classes a week which is in my opinion just great. I see difference in my son's attitude and I see his growth. He is stronger, smarter and faster. Thank you, Jeff

Beware of their 60 cancellation policy requirements. They will not consider the duration of time…read moreyou've been enrolled. It's a good program but after a while it becomes redundant. Also never really felt like my children learned real self defense skills.

I'm writing this review not to be negative or cause problems but because I hope it creates some…read morekind of change. I trained at GB Upland for about four years. I was consistent, sometimes training twice a day, and I competed around 7 times, always placing gold or silver. I trained through injuries, balanced family life, and showed up ready to help others on and off the mat. I gave a lot to this place. What really pushed me to leave was a comment from Professor Ana. She told me, "I don't really see you at class that often." That hit me hard, because I knew how much time I'd put in. I plan to post my attendance card and medals not to brag but to show that I was showing up, even on days I was hurting. That comment made me step back and look at things more clearly. Over time, I started noticing a lot of favoritism. Certain families especially those who are friends with the owners or have kids that compete get more attention, more praise, and more support. I understand why competitors are highlighted. They represent the gym. But let's be honest the people who pay monthly, train consistently, and support the academy from the ground up deserve just as much respect. If you use words like "we," "family," or "community," that should apply to everybody not just a few. I also heard stories from people especially at CompNet tournaments who didn't have a coach in their corner when it was time to compete. Some had to wait. Others had no one. That's rough, especially when you're out there nervous and relying on your school to back you up. And it wasn't just adults. In the kids' classes too, who gets more attention often depends on how involved their parents are with the school not just how hard the kid trains. When you see it enough, it starts to feel off. Injuries are expected in this sport I've had two or three myself. But I'm always upfront about them. I let the professor or coach know before class, and I let my partner know too. I want to protect myself and others. But not everyone trains like that. There are some people who roll with ego and try to prove something every time and they end up injuring other students. I know at least one person who hurt multiple people and is still there. I'm not naming names, but in my opinion, one person shouldn't be allowed to ruin the experience for so many. Another thing that started bothering me was the 60-day cancellation policy. After doing some research and talking with people from other schools including other Gracie Barra locations I found that most have a 30-day policy, no contracts, and more flexible options. For people who are dealing with financial stress or personal issues, being forced to pay for two extra months feels like it's about money, not community. Then there's the issue of people with prior martial arts experience competing in lower-level brackets. I'm not hating on anyone's success. Like I said, I've competed and done well. But when someone barely trains at the gym, walks into a competition with a big advantage, and then gets praised like they just climbed Mount Everest it's hard to watch. I stayed quiet about it for a long time, but it didn't sit right with me. I've always earned everything whether in the Army or in Jiu Jitsu through effort and integrity. I want to be part of a gym where that kind of value actually means something. Since leaving, several people have reached out to me privately, saying they've felt the same way but didn't want to speak up. I've also run into former students who said they stopped going for the same reasons. The feelings I had weren't just mine. Leaving wasn't easy. I made a lot of good friends. I had a routine. I still love the sport. And to be fair, the coaches themselves are very knowledgeable and talented. That was one of the best parts of being there. They made training enjoyable and challenging. This review isn't an attack it's just my truth. At the end of the day, for my own mental well-being, I needed to go somewhere I'd feel genuinely valued not just as a student, but as a person. If you're reading this and thinking about joining go see it for yourself. But if you're already there and you've noticed some of the same things, just know you're not alone. -- Rod

We have been so happy with this karate studio! We signed up our 5 year old for karate to build…read moreconfidence, but it has done so much more for her. Her self-esteem has grown, she has made friendships (including us parents), and she has fun. Sensei Chris Pellitteri and Sensei Bill will help your child, give them attention, and do whatever it takes for your child to grow in confidence and skill. We cannot express how grateful we are to have discovered this gem and happily recommend it to all our friends and family.

My kids have been practicing karate here for 4 years, and we couldn't be happier! All the sensei…read moreare wonderful -- they're patient, encouraging, and truly great with kids. The classes are well-organized, and the price and schedule work perfectly for our family. I once asked my kids who their favorite sensei is, and they said they don't have one because they love all of them! That really says a lot about the amazing team and positive environment here.

My experience at UCS has been phenomenal. I could not be happier at any other gym. The environment…read moreis friendly and welcoming to anyone coming from any background. Myself personally having zero martial art experience, found it very difficult to begin and get a hold of everything. Coach Jamar and the students have been incredibly insightful walking me through all of the drills and ensuring everyone gets their reps in properly before moving onto the next. Having both morning and evening classes which start at 6pm is perfect for those 9-5 workers looking to get a good workout in. Since joining, it has been the best decision for my life. I've lost weight, gotten stronger and feel the best Ive ever felt. I look forward to every day inside such an enthusiastic and competitive environment created by a wonderful instructor pushing everyone to be the best they can be. UCS for the win! Also shoutout Eddie and Aaron for being such wonderful Kids class coaches. It's a great feeling coming in everyday to see such passionate teachers empowering the youth and next generation.

Started my Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu journey in Feb of 2025. I did not know what to expect at all and…read morewhere to begin. I typed mma gym into google map and UCS popped up. I emailed Jamar for a trial run and he set up an appointment for me. I will break this review down into a few sections. Head Instructor: Jamar adapts to each individual and motivates them according to their personality. He is one of the finest and most professional individuals I have ever had the pleasure to work with. He takes MMA very seriously and passionately. He cares about his students on and off the mat has made positive impacts on many people's lives, me included. He runs his business with integrity and honesty even if it means not making as much money as he could. He is upfront and honest with his students whether it's promotion or not being a good fit for the gym. He puts his students first and truly believes that his team is his family. Parking and facility: There are plenty of parking spaces. Facility is spacious with two restrooms. Got a few changing rooms to change in between classes from Muay Thai to Jiu Jitsu. Got a staging area for your gear and cameras all over the gym so you do not have to worry about your stuff going missing. Jamar offers refrigeration in case you have protein or drinks you want to keep chilled. Plenty of weights and workout equipment in case you are injured and cannot participate in sparring or rolling.I recently tweaked my ribs and while others rolled after lessons I just worked out at the side. Jamar cleans the gym after each use after the morning session as well as the night session. Environment/hours/schedule: UCS is one of the friendliest places I have ever been to. Unlike some of the other gyms out there, the students and instructors are not out to impress anyone. What I mean by that is no one is going to beat you up just to show you how cool they are. In fact Jamar is very big on being respectful and frowns upon being a mat bully. Hours of the gym are very accommodating. However accommodating Jamar is he does not tolerate being late, it's part of being respectful to other students! Muay Thai/Jiu Jitsu: As far as I know, this gym is one of the only gyms that still offers Muay Thai around the area. There is no "beginner's class" as everyone learns in a big group setting. This goes for both Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu as well. Jamar has a keen eye for each individual's skill level and pairs you up with people that can teach and guide you. Each session starts with warm up following up with a lesson plan for the week and ends with light contact sparring. Safety is very important at UCS as it should be at any MMA gym. Jamar has a no nonsense policy when it comes to the hygiene and safety of his students. With that being said you will get punched/kicked in the face and body, but it's something you will be able to tolerate. I mean after all you are coming to learn a combat sport. This is a Carlson Gracie Jiu Jitsu and they teach both Gi and No Gi Jiu Jitsu. One of the reasons why I love this gym is because it is a very balanced gym. Jamar encourages his students to learn both and be well versed in both. At first I was super lost as to what I'm supposed to do but from the short months I have been here I feel like I have improved significantly. Everyone here is very patient and welcoming and I never felt pressured to practice any moves I'm not comfortable with. One of the earliest lessons I have learned from Jamar is tapping early and not pushing myself because I do not know what I am doing yet. As far as promotions, go there isn't a test so you do not have to worry about paying extra to advance. Overall, I cannot recommend this place enough. I have made many valuable friendships that I know will last a lifetime. you will just have to come and check it out. Reach out to Jamar about trial class and begin your journey, you will not regret it, OSS!!!

When I started looking for a karate studio for my son (age 5), we tried a couple of free trials at…read morea few different places. We ended up choosing Power of One because their instructors were absolutely amazing with kids. They blew the competition out of the water. We have now been attending for almost a year and we love it even more. My son is very shy, but his confidence is so much higher and his bravery is shining through. Big shout out to Mr Ryan and Mrs Hignite for coaching him so well and to Sensei Jeremy and Mrs J for their support. Aside from the twice weekly lessons we have done a couple of day camps at the studio. My son loves these! They keep them entertained all day on days that there is a school holiday. We appreciate that they offer these day camps. We also did his birthday party here this year! It was absolutely amazing. Everyone was so helpful with decorating. The kids had the best time!!!! We have rented jumping places in the past, and the kids actually said this was way better. My son loved that he got to cut his cake with a katana and break a board with his friends! The studio is beautiful and well kept. There is plenty of parking and it's in a central location. I would genuinely recommend Power of One to anyone interested.

I love this place the staff are GREAT the dojo is in good shape/it looks good,and the place is…read moregreat I recommend it if you wanna learn MMA/and JiuJitsu

I've been working with Jarrad virtually for a few months. Im active law enforcement/military and…read morecan't recommend enough. He teaches applicable usable techniques relevant to modern combatives. I wish I was local in the area. Very straightforward and articulate instructions. 10/10

I go here for Libre Fighting Los Angeles Chapter classes and various seminars whether Muay Thai,…read morejiu jitsu, trauma care etc. Jarrad is an excellent head instructor; he communicates well, has a depth of knowledge of various martial arts, is well read, and personable. The name of the school is not an accident; Jarrad wants to provide you with concepts and with his guidance and your sweat & dedication, you build out from there. There is no one way. Very much recommend training at ASD Concepts.

This is Luke. I like martial arts very very much and I also like Master Peter and all the other…read moreinstructors.

I would like to thank Master Peter, Teacher Victoria, and the entire staff for instilling…read moreconfidence and excellence in our kids. There are many martial arts studios you could choose, and some may be excellent, but if you want your children to have mentors who truly practice what they teach, discipline, honesty, hard work, and perseverance when challenges arise, then bring them to Top Stars Martial Arts. The combination of self-defense lessons with meaningful discussions about being your best self,at home, in the community, at school, and wherever you may be,as well as the importance of speaking up for yourself, is priceless. My husband and I are so grateful to have found this studio, and I'm confident you will feel the same.

First time visiting for a seminar with the Muay Thai kickboxing legend Saenchai. The owner was very…read morepolite and told us to make ourselves at home. This is a very clean facility with great equipment and fun environment.

Amazing staff and friendly environment! Definitely a great place to come educate yourself and…read morepractice Muay Thai! Everyone is incredibly sweet! No huge ego. Super humble!! I've been searching for a legit place for a while and came across this location. Really glad I took the leap and checked this place out :)! I enjoy learning and taking tests to level up. They also host fun guests and events, so be sure to check them out :)!

I was in the area for a family vacation and was able to drop-in on the Wednesday 6am gi class (I…read morehad made a mistake and only brought no gi stuff). I had DMed the academies instagram a few days prior and heard back very quickly. I was greeted by professor Elder, very cool and nice guy. I was caught of guard when I saw everyone in their gi's (MWF gi) as I must have seen an old schedule that said it was no gi. I would have been happy to just watch the instruction but Professor Elder asked one of the students to take his gi top off and allow me to get reps in. He went over some awesome techniques - explained very well: conceptually and fundamentally sound. Class was structured into warm-ups, techniques, positional sparring, and live rounds. This academy is full or killers of all ages, shapes, sizes and skill levels! It was a pleasure to meet everyone. Thank you for the hospitality and the rolls!

Hands down, thee Best BJJ in IE and many places period…read more Infamous World Champs Marcelo Lapela Mafra & Lucas Leite teach you hands on, and bothhave seperate other locations La Habra & Hesperia: So you get a solid mix of both camps here. I trained many years and honestly need a Brasiliero Professor and level with my teamates. But beginners, solid fundamental classes that i even go to bcuz basics are very impirtant and with soo many techniques, u cant know them all, and refreshing or learning is something that bjj just evolves. i came from sd a rival big team, and honestly, peeps here are really team based and enthusuastic. Dont waste $$$ at other gyms with ego's, ufc attitude etc.. this is a team sport if u compete, or just train for what ever reason, all walks of life here. And both Mafra & Leite are moito bom! (the best). Checkmat: love my new home. Fight Studio

My 5-year-old son just started at Excel Taekwondo, and we could not be happier with the experience…read more From the very beginning, Master Kim made him feel welcome and excited to be part of the class. Master Kim has a great way of teaching. He uses humor and real-life examples to help the kids understand discipline, respect, and confidence in a way that really connects with them. My son looks forward to every class and quickly immersed himself into the lessons. It is amazing to see how much he is learning, not just in martial arts but also in life skills that will help him grow. I highly recommend Excel Taekwondo and Master Kim.

We found out about Excel Taekwondo through an after school program at our son's elementary school…read morewhich has brought us to the studio full time. Master Kim is a great teacher and uses the perfect amount of humor and discipline in his classes. We can't recommend it enough. Our son is learning great techniques in self defense as well as discipline and respect.