At 60, my husband and I dove into the world of martial arts for the first time. We began exploring…read moreTai Chi and Kung Fu at the West LA School of Martial Arts, and we cannot recommend it enough. From the moment we arrived, Sifu Scott, the instructors, and the senior students greeted us with warmth and encouragement, instantly making us feel at home. Each class is a highlight of our week. No matter your age, background, or physical ability, treat yourself to a trial class. We think you will be hooked and want to join us on this journey.

this place is a mess!!! AVOID AT ALL COST!! My son was…read morecharged twice, given wrong uniform, signed to the wrong class!!! terrible

Dynamics MMA has truly become my second home. I've been training there for a year, and I've grown…read moretremendously--both technically and mentally. The instructors--Jordan, Sean, Kevin,Gustavo and Antoni--are incredibly talented and passionate teachers. They've not only sharpened my skills in jiu-jitsu, kickboxing, and MMA, but they've also helped me develop my mindset. The community is equally amazing--everyone, from the blue and purple belts to all the experienced folks, are welcoming and humble. I go three to four times a week and can't get enough. I'm in the best shape of my life, and I know I'll be a lifelong member!

I trained at Dynamix for a year and a half and had an incredible experience. The community is…read morewelcoming and the coaches are excellent. I trained primarily with Sean and Jordan, and I learned so much from both of them. I can't recommend this gym enough to anyone interested in kickboxing, BJJ, or MMA.

The VERY BEST Kudo instruction that you will ever receive in the United States!…read more Sensei Ito is not only one of the friendliest, most humble instructor's that you will ever find, but he also happens to be one of the most qualified Kudo fighters/instructors that there is. A 3rd Dan black belt with over 15 years of Kudo experience and a prestigious fight record (including a bronze medal at the 3rd World Kudo Tournament, a bronze medal at the All Japan Hokutoki Open Tournament in 2008, 1st Place at the All Eastern Open Tournament in 2009, and 1st Place at the All South American Tournament in 2012), Ito Sensei is by far one of the best that there is. It is nothing short of a privilege to be able to train and learn under such a World class fighter with top-notch instruction! (It should also be noted that Sensei Ito has an extensive knowledge of combat/sport Sambo, as well as Jiujitsu) If you reside in the United States and have ever thought about learning Kudo, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Aside from being one of the only official Kudo Dojos in America recognized by the KIF (Kudo International Federation), you will not find better instruction elsewhere (even comparable to instruction in Japan)! Whether you are an inexperienced newcomer interested in learning the most realistic kakutogi fighting art, or a seasoned martial artist interested in transitioning into MMA or becoming the next Kudo World Champion, Kudo LA is the place for you. If you are interested in joining or simply want to see what Kudo is like, come drop by and watch or take a trial class for free!

Sensei Ito is phenomenal ! Million light years of experience in Daido-juku, Sambo, Judo, and much…read moremore!!! First practice was free and I probably dropped like 2 lbs that day!!! Practice feels extremely dynamic and fluid, guys I practiced with very respectful and gentle to beginners while learning and teaching all aspects of KUDO - Furious Karate as they call it in Japan. Club does feel like small family! Many celebrities come here to train often, but keep it a secret ;)

A fine karate school. I attended for four years…read more It was what I needed for personal development, self-defense and exercise. Price was good. Strong community. WLA Dojo is the premier kyokushin dojo in LA.  Kyokushin Karate is one of the strongest karate's you can do.  Shihan Hasegawa is very deferential and loving towards his students. West L.A. Dojo has had at least 3 participants in the past 5 years in the Kyokushin world tournament.

Hasegawa Sensei is by far one of the best and most dedicated instructors you will ever find…read more His attention to detail and passion for teaching is only mirrored by his unconditional love for Karate. His hard work ethic and enormous spirit will be sure to invigorate you through the most exhausting practices, teaching you the true meaning of the Kyokushin spirit. His unique, lively character and compassionate nature makes him approachable and easy to talk to; you will find that Sensei is more than just an instructor, but a genuine friend. With that being said, everyone at West LA Dojo is family. The members will welcome you with open arms and introduce you to the wonderfully brutal world of Kyokushin Karate! (Do not be deceived by the Dojo's humble appearance! Although small in size, it provides some of the best Kyokushin instruction in the West Coast!)

Love doing the Krav Maga classes here! The instructors are well trained, professional and helpful…read morefor us beginners. I highly recommend if you want to learn self-defense and get in great shape!

My first review of 2025! Since January is typically the month when people join new gyms, let me…read moreupdate my original review and remind you that KMW is an awesome place to train and meet your fitness goals. This will be my 3rd year at KMW, and the place keeps getting better and better. Since my last review, they've added more classes, including Brazilian jiu jitsu classes! BJJ is so much fun, and Ross and Bam Bam are the best. I've improved my flexibility, strength, and cardio/stamina since I started bjj, not to mention all the mental health benefits - lower stress, more confidence. Highly recommend bjj for everyone. All of my favorite krav maga instructors are still here - Ross, Kelly, Todd, Oscar, Gabe. Since my last review, Reggie and Micky also have classes on the schedule now, and they're fantastic. Between here and the Sherman Oaks location, I train 6 days a week, and I've never felt stronger. The facility is super clean; in fact, one of the training rooms is a no shoes room now (so barefoot or indoor shoes only). Plenty of hand sanitizer and wipes in each room. Free validated parking (2 hours before 5pm, no limit after 5pm and on weekends). First class is free, so come check it out! Davis is great about working with you regarding membership plans. There are monthly plans, but you get a better deal if you sign up for more months (3 month, 6 month, etc). I have an annual membership, which I just renewed, so KMW is stuck with me until 2026, haha.

This isn't just another gym - it's a sanctuary where authentic martial arts instruction meets…read moregenuine human connection. From the moment you walk through the doors, you can feel the difference that comes from training under people who've dedicated their lives to these arts. Mr. Bennett brings something special to this space that you simply can't find elsewhere. His background in entertainment adds fascinating depth to his teaching, and hearing his stories has given me such appreciation for the journey that led him here.

Best private gym in west Los Angeles For both fitness and…read moremartial arts. Boxing It's very private and no one can bother you

Great place to learn Judo from in Los Angeles. This judo dojo has been around for decades and the…read moreinstructors there try to instill a sense of respect and tradition. They are very welcoming of beginners and have several regulars who have been doing judo for a long time as well. The most senior instructor Kenji Osugi is a real stickler for the rules and will call you out for doing any techniques that might injure yourself or your randori partner. For $50/ month, you won't find a better deal for a martial arts school anywhere else. You do have to help roll up and put away the mats after practice and the instructors expect all the beginners to eventually know the proper way to do this. This is a very typical way to show the teachers humility and respect.

October 2021 This is one of the best schools. We love…read moreSawtelle Judo Dojo. Our child is practicing here since July, he is coming here 3 times a week to practice. It's like home, Senseis are so caring and attentive to each child, bringing the best out of them, showing discipline, hard work, great life lesson Update after 8 month: We love this place, I'm happy I found this school for my child. We love the sensei's/instructors. Each Sensei and all volunteer instructors are super dedicated, it's unbelievable how much time and energy they invest for no money. They spent same energy and dedication with one or 20 kids. This place is all about teaching your child to become a great citizen and a great Athlet with discipline and knowledge . They don't do this for the money, it's about $50-60 a month and you train 3x a week for 1 hour. It's about $5 an hour of judo training. They encourage you to come and train as often as possible and it doesn't matter if you are boy or girl, male female, beginner or advanced. Everyone treats each other with respect and everyone is there to learn. They handle Covid situation perfectly and follow guidelines. During juniors class, 2-3 black belt Senseis are present, with 2-3 volunteers. It's all based on volunteering and not making money, That says everything. This Dojo is one of the old traditional judo dojos. Judo teaches hard work, discipline, patience, builds self confidence and sets goals at school or life. Encourages to be better in academics and everything necessary in life. In this 8 month I see different kids coming with different levels and all of them improve and get better and independent. Thank you Senseis for your hard work and dedication for our kids.

Huge mat. I mean just huge! Vibe: everyone at Meraki was…read moreextremely friendly, kind, and welcoming. The students, the professors, staff. Overall just a super solid dojo. They have women's only open mat from time to time and I think that is so neat. I haven't seen that in other places. The ratio of women is definitely higher than other dojos. So ladies, if you want to find sparring partners, this is definitely the place. It's super clean. Aesthetically pleasing to the eye. Bathrooms are equipped with showers. That's next level stuff. Parking: can be tough sometimes since it's street parking mostly. But definitely not koreatown level difficult. You can find parking.

Probably the best facilities I have ever seen, extremely welcoming classmates who go the extra mile…read moreto work on techniques or competition prep, and awesome instruction from the coaches and teachers. I especially love Professor Anthony's morning classes - a great group of students, and Anthony's teaching methodology is fantastic - lots of ramping up from drilling to positional sparring, letting students acclimate at their own pace to using the techniques and concepts in progressively more live situations.

We've had a great experience at Tae Ryong Taekwondo! My son started at age 3 and now at 8, we've…read moreseen a huge boost in his confidence and discipline. The instructors are patient, encouraging, and amazing with kids. They create a positive environment while still challenging students to grow. Highly recommend Tae Ryong to any family looking for a supportive and structured program for their child!

I love Tae Ryong ! It's so fun and amazing. I'm testing for my first black belt!!! -Olivia 9 yo…read more I've never met better child educators. I truly can't recommend this studio highly enough. We found Tae Ryong Taekwondo during the pandemic, and it quickly became something special for our family. Master Hutchinson and Master Hoyle have been incredible throughout this journey. After the fire, Master Hutchinson went above and beyond to create a safe and supportive space for all of his Palisades students. That level of care and commitment meant so much to our community. The camaraderie across the TR studios is incredible. The masters genuinely look out for all of the students, not just their own, and provide thoughtful guidance every step of the way. It really feels like a community, not just a studio.

I had a great experience training with Elliot! He is incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and…read moreempowering. He made sure everyone felt comfortable and capable, no matter their skill level. His teaching style is clear, hands-on, and practical, focusing on real-life situations to help us feel more confident and prepared. What I loved most is his supportive and encouraging approach--he truly wants every woman to feel strong and safe. I walked away not just with valuable self-defense skills, but also with a newfound sense of empowerment. Highly recommend his classes to anyone looking to build confidence and personal safety! I was the type of person to go into freeze mode and lock up during tough situations, after taking his class, I'm more confident that I will react more quickly with the skills I've acquired. Ladies, don't wait on this one. Take the 4-hour much needed class for every woman!

I took, my two daughters and I to Elliott for his conscious defense class because I wanted to be…read moresure to do so before my oldest went off to college. I'm very glad I did-this class started with something I'd never thought about before, a question about what you'd be willing to do if faced with a situation where you needed to defend yourself physically from an attacker. The question is important because it was followed by learning all the techniques for doing so, and they essentially consist of doing things to another human being that I hope I will never be faced with having to do, to say the least (but look out if you try to attack me!). I have seen changes in my daughters and myself already, for example my oldest told me about her new habit of what she now does when she enters a dark parking garage at night. Thank you, Elliott, for imparting such a wealth of safety information to us.