My kids and I have been going to The Dojo for over a year now and have all benefited a lot from it. Sifu Phil is the real deal, having studied and taught several martial arts for decades, and has incredibly deep knowledge to pull from. He's also a great teacher for people of all ages and levels. My kids still refer to what they are learning as "karate" but are really learning a variety of American Kenpo, informed by Sifu Phil's other experience with boxing, wrestling, jiu jitsu, and more, striking a balance between traditional and practical. Many of the younger kids' classes are taught by Mr. Noah and Mr. Henry, who both have their own teaching styles but who all the kids love. They are both black belts who have been with The Dojo for a long time. Don't expect to get a black belt in a year or two! What I learn in the Monday and Wednesday (as of this writing) adult Tactical Kickboxing classes is a mixture of open-hand techniques and Western kickboxing. We spar--safely and with control--most nights to build up experience and understand how things really work. No hot dogs or tough guys with something to prove tolerated. Sifus Phil and Rachelle also encourage youth development through The Dojo's junior instructor program that allows kids of the right age, level and temperament start guiding other kids. The program has produced some really remarkable kids. The black belts act appropriately for their rank--it's not a badge, it's a responsibility. Finally, on a practical note, The Dojo is kept very clean! Hopefully this is helpful. I highly recommend The Dojo. read more

I haven't written a yelp review in a very long time, but i had the best birthday party experience at the Dojo I had to come out of retirement. Last weekend my son had his 9th birthday party at The Dojo and it was so easy and great from start to finish. They put together so many age appropriate, fun courses and games. All the boys had the best time. Every parent that dropped off and picked up all commented on how great this place was. Honestly it's probably the best birthday party I've thrown and I can't take any of the credit. I'm already planning on coming back for my younger son. Thank you to The Dojo for such a wonderful experience. read more

The Dojo is a gem! All three of my kids do Dojo Kids and absolutely love it. my youngest went from a wild rascal when he started to a focused and respectful little ninja. My oldest child has gained so much confidence. My middle child is thriving and loves it so much. After a couple of months I joined Dojo Fit after YEARS of no exercise. This is the most amazing program. Small classes with instructors who get to know you so well they can push you while also protecting any injuries or issues. I've only been doing it for a month and I hAve seen such amazing progress. My mental and emotional health is amazing. My body is getting so much stronger and I have endurance. I was even able to learn to roller skate this weekend! So thankful for the Dojo! read more

Great place, great people, great workouts... you name it. The Dojo has a welcoming atmosphere & is a place where you feel comfortably challenged to push yourself. read more

Sifu Robin and Phil intentionally create a fun environment that is also full of respect, trust and honor. Both black belts and great at their craft. Additionally, their team of teachers are also very decorated and great with the students. Small groups pull out during class for dedicated skill work sessions, super fun summer camps, weekday adult workouts, movie nights for families, they've thought of it all! I really appreciate the male leadership they demonstrate and how intentional they are to bring the level of expectation up when a child may be stubborn or unwilling/scared to try. They really bring out the best in their students! Appreciate you guys a ton! read more

My 2nd grade son has been attending The Dojo since preschool. The classes are fun, the teachers professional and great with children. The kids not only learn the Dojo techniques and what the moves mean, but also focus, persistence, and how to work toward a goal. He feels so proud when he receives a stripe or a new belt because he knows he's been consistent in attending classes and has worked hard. The staff knows all of the kids and puts them at ease. I highly recommend this class for kids! Robin also hosted a Mom-Daughter teen/tween self defense class for a group of us recently. It was empowering for the girls to see their moms yelling, hitting and kicking the bag alongside them, and we learned real life strategies on how to handle being grabbed, pushed, attacked, and pushed onto the ground. And we had a lot of laughs while doing it, so it was fun even though a serious topic. It was a great workout too--I run and exercise everyday, and my arms were still sore for two days after our class. We will definitely schedule more of these classes. read more

A terrific dojo. I spent many years doing martial arts before I had kids. Now my older son has attended the dojo for nearly three years, and I just recently started attempting to get back in shape by attending some classes there myself. Having seen more than a few other dojos in the past, I can attest to the positive atmosphere, character-building focus, and community temperament of this one. The Dojo in San Anselmo is a special place. It's a great environment for my son to learn karate and many other positive things, both mental and physical. read more

If I could give The Dojo 10 stars, I would! I've been attending their 6am classes for over a year and I have immensely enjoyed every single one. I have learned so much from all the instructors. Yes, I'm having so much fun while getting in shape. Phil and Robin do an amazing job. A noon class was recently added to the schedule, with Divine Davina as the instructor. The class is simply divine. Thank you, The Dojo!! You're simply amazing. read more

We love Dojo! My son has been going here for nearly two years (starting at age 4) and it has been such a wonderful experience for him. All the teachers are wonderful with children and work hard to create a fun learning environment. They really know how to measure the right balance of silly/fun with disciplined karate instruction and adjust that mix by age of kids in the class. The owners Phil and Rob as well as the office manager, Analia, are always there and know every single student and their parents by name. My son feels so safe and comfortable at Dojo. He would probably go every day if he could (our schedule, not the schools, does not allow this). As a parent, I love how they incorporate life lessons and themes into each class such as safety, respect, sportsmanship, etc. My son has also attended several birthday parties and summer camp here and all have been wonderful. The review below from Melissa, is so shocking to me as I have never witnessed anything even remotely resembling her experience and I've been there A LOT the past few years. They highly encourage students to come for 2 or 3 trial classes to see if they like it before signing up. Mine was ready to go after just 1 session! read more

I can't express enough how much I have grown to love this place. I signed my son ( 6 years old) up after hearing from 4 of his classmates mothers that their sons were going and I needed a after school activity. We do the unlimited which means he can go to 3 classes a week, which we usually do. It's great that you aren't stuck to a permanent schedule you can show up for any class that fits their age range. He just recently received his second stripe on his yellow belt, he's very proud of himself and loves working towards another promotion. All staff have been fantastic, all Sifu's we have met are full of patience and really motivate the younger kids. They also have older students help as support staff, it shows the younger kids what they are training towards. They chant their motto of spirit, honor and respect at the end of class and go over great life principles. So they are teaching more than just martial arts but also how to be a good person too. They hold a movie night at least once a month where for $10 you can drop your kid off for 2 hours on a Friday night and they feed and entertain them with family movies. My son looks forward to this monthly activity. The Dojo has instilled a sense of pride in him that he likes to tell everyone about that will listen. If he ever sees someone else wearing a dojo shirt he instantly thinks they are his new best friend. Happy I was referred here. read more

I can't say enough good things about the Dojo. I've been regularly attending their workout classes and love them all so much. Phil and Robin have created a wonderful community environment and are clearly experts in their field. All of the instructors are definitely the top in the Bay Area. Not only is it a killer workout but they bring high energy, great music, and lots of fun! I feel lucky to have found such a local gem of a fitness studio! read more

This place is everything. Great adult workouts that kick your butt (not just martial arts!!), a welcoming and structured program for kids, and just an overall positive vibe. I can't say enough good things about every class I've taken here (boxing, bootcamp, TRX, etc...) and what the kids' program has done for my (formerly timid and uncertain) son. There are a lot of dojos out there -- but I find it hard to believe there are this many truly good people (and talented fitness professionals) under one other roof. read more

We hosted my son's 7th birthday party at the Dojo and had a such a wonderful experience - I felt compelled to share. Robin was so kind, energetic and ACCOMMODATING with creating a fun party for my son. I'm extremely grateful! I was able to sit back and enjoy the party while Robin and his staff took care of all of the details. If you're looking for a fun party idea, I highly recommend! Robin, my most sincere thanks for being such a great birthday party partner. : ) read more

I took a self defense class with Robin and Davina and they were both so knowledgeable, helpful, kind, and a lot of fun! Not to mention all the awesome programs they have for kids. This place is amazing. read more

I have been a participant in the martial arts lifestyle for nearly 8 years and when I moved to San Anselmo about a year ago from another state I needed to find a new Dojo. I spent a lot of time checking out several martial arts studios in the area. I interviewed owners and teachers in each of these locations and found some excellent schools that offered so many different styles and advancement paths, but it was the feeling of warmth and family that made the Dojo stand out to me most. From the moment I walked in the door, I felt at home. Feeling at home in your Dojo is so important. It allows you to be yourself and there is never any judgement on your abilities. We are not competing against each other, we are working on our own personal goals. The individual attention that you will receive from each instructor is remarkable. If you are looking for the right place to train yourself and anyone in your family the Dojo is the place you are looking for. They are celebrating their 10th anniversary in December which is a great accomplishment that says so much about a local community centric business. I hope to see you all on the mats! read more

We loved our birthday party at the Dojo! What a caring and great staff. They not only want to make sure the kids have a good time, but that the parents are relaxed too! Great experience all around. read more

Phil and Robin are fantastic role models for the kids. They keep the kids engaged and make sure they not just learn Karate, but learn how to be their best We moved to Mill Valley but kept taking the kids there for the past 2 years, since our kids just thrive at this Dojo Thanks! read more

If you want your child(ren) to have a truly enriching experience while having fun in a supportive and positive environment, then this is the place to bring them. Phil and Robin are two amazing guys who have created something very special with The Dojo. Their respect for children and dedication to building community are at the core of everything they do. read more

This is an update - extension of what I already said 4 years ago. The Dojo, and all of the instructors are devoted to fitness! They work hard at making sure they meet the needs of all those who workout at the Dojo. I have been a member since Phil opened the Dojo, and still feel as strongly as ever that they are great people and offer great classes for both kids and adults! read more

READ ALL PAPERWORK CAREFULLY!!! You'd think deciding to take a break or stopping you or your child's membership for a place like this would be as easy as saying "hey we don't want to do this anymore, thanks" but apparently not so much with this place. They make you sign up to an automatic payment system on top of it! Extremely disappointed with the complete lack of customer service and blatant money grabbing tactics! No Senseis there just paid instructors ready to take your money and move you right along!! Oh Marin.... In response to the owners response - what's worse than a corporation??? A small business acting like one!! Your cancellation policy is ridiculous, you knew we weren't going to step foot in your studio for the month of January yet you took my money anyway. It would have been no skin off your back to refund me or credit the fee to another month since I explained that my kids wouldn't be able to make it this month due to other commitments. I'm a single father trying to keep my children active and I have to pick and choose where I put the extra $ because there's usually not much if any. read more

These guys have it down. A great, FUN, respectful place for kids to explore martial arts. Not intimidating and is so family friendly. The DOJO is so flexible with schedules and understanding. I love this place so much and my kids have learned a ton. We had a birthday party there and all the kids had a blast and I loved that I didn't have to do a thing! These guys worked hard the entire duration of the party. I don't know how they do it but I love it! read more

These guys are great with kids. They not only get good exercise, but they also learn about discipline, respect, self-control. All in a fun and safe environment! read more

My son had his 7th birthday party at the Dojo and it was perfect! Kids had a great time. The staff was wonderful at engaging all the children. And best of all, they provided the pizza, juice boxes, plates, etc! It was so easy and so successful! read more

I'm so impressed with the self defense class at the Dojo! We took our 8 year old girl scout troop here and they had a blast. Robin and Davina went over safety tips but kept it light enough not to scare them. The kids learned how to use their voice and how to hit, kick and run away. It was fantastic, I highly recommend this class for any age group. read more

I've been a part of The Dojo for three years. I've taken classes there as well as my kids. My daughter has special needs and was part of a martial arts class. Phil and Robin have been amazing. They are so caring and considerate. My kids absolutely loved being in their class. They know how to teach children respect, discipline, safety, and self awareness while making the class really fun. Robin and Phil are not only great teachers but they also care about the families of the kids in their classes. They are involved in the lives of many families in the classes as well as community. I've seen them take in troubled kids and become mentors to them. They are truly passionate about what they do. The adult classes are definitely worth checking out as well! Knowledgeable and awesome instructors that will kick your butt. read more

My 7 year old has attended the Dojo for 2 years. He absolutely loves it! He is dedicated, and he is enthusiastic about class! My 4 year old just started this fall, and he would love to go every day. The Dojo not only teaches martial arts, but instills important everyday values in the students. Every month consists of a life learning theme regarding everyday values (for example, self confidence), and every week the studens focus and discuss words/subjects within the theme. During the last part of each class the students discuss these subjects. The parents are well informed by email about the events and subjects that occur within lesson. The Dojo has provided great experiences for both of my sons. Thank you Dojo! read more

I cannot say enough good things about this special place. Sifu Robin and Phil are amazing, so friendly and warm to both parents and students. They have been so wonderful with my child and make each class exciting with such positive lessons. They teach respect (of self, teachers, and parents!), honor, and discipline -- and it's great exercise for a child to get out the wiggles. I am just thrilled to see how my child is enjoying these classes. LOVE this place! read more

Dojo is the best. My grandson is 7 and loves to go to Dojo. The instructors Robin an Phil are amazing. I would highly recommend Dojo

We've been going here for about six weeks now and our early experience has been outstanding. As a parent I love the flexibility (go any day!), the focus on discipline, and the physical workout my son gets. My son loves being there, learning karate, and striving for his next promotion. He has never found his match with baseball, soccer, etc. and so far this is it. Best activity so far for him. Thank you to Sifu Rob and Phil for having such an amazing spot for our kids. You have created an engaging, welcoming and fun dojo. read more

The Dojo is simply the best!! The owners, Phil and Robin are 100% in it, there all of the time and really care. They try - and succeed - to make this a true family spot. They offer incredible martial arts programs for kids starting at age 3. Both my kids, girl 7, and boy, 5, take their classes and get so much out of them! Self defense. Self control. Exercise. Values. The message they instill in the kids at each class are wonderful! And I work out there at least four days a week. Their "Dojo Fit" program is fantastic. Knowledgable and approachable instructors. Wide variety of classes for different fitness levels. They let you try THREE classes free. Where else does that?! And I just did a self defense class with Robin and Davina that was fun, simple, and effective. Oh! And they offer movie nights for the kids monthly. Date night with cheap child care that's actually fun for the kids. And a parent/child martial arts class on Saturdays. Awesome. They really care, they are just fantastic. So proud and happy to be a part of this community. read more

I have been bringing my 4 1/2 year old nephew to The Dojo for 5 weeks now, once a week ,and the improvement in behavior and interest has been amazing to watch. The Dojo instructors have the ability to really connect with each student that brings out their very best, in such a way the brings the student back each time with more confidence. read more

We just started our 9 year old boy here and are loving it. It channels his amazing energy and teaches great life lessons - respect, spirit, honor. We've had nothing but great experiences with the people at the desk and both instructors. We're very happy and intend to spread the word! read more

My 6 yeard old son had his birthday party here last weekend and the kids had a blast! Several people told us it was the best birthday party they had ever been to. The staff was very professional and engaged with the kids. Their passion for what they do is quite evident. The people that work in this studio are clearly happy to be there and enjoy working with kids. The feeling is palpable and the kids are energized by it. We also loved their words of the week, most recently charity, kindess and integrity. Getting kids to stop and think about these concepts is tremendous. The staff also made my son feel like the birthday star. He can't wait to go back. read more

Everyone in my family has had an amazing experience at the DoJo. Over a year after my last 5 star review, I feel that things have only gotten better! When my kids were young and taking martial arts classes, many of the parents asked Phil if he would teach adult classes. He created DoJo Fit and has a big following. When we asked him to add 6 a.m. classes, again he met our needs and has a big following. Phil and Robin are more than just instructors, they extend themselves personally to everyone who comes to the DoJo. I have never met more positive people and highly recommend them for both adults and children alike. Everyone should try it! Also, with so few party places for kids in Marin, it is an ideal and reasonably priced spot for a birthday party! read more

Ok, so I wasn't going to put my son into karate, just wasn't on my radar until my son started being bullied at school and his behavior and self esteem plummeted immediately. Someone recommended the Dojo to us, and not for learning to fight back, but for self esteem because of the way Phil and Robin run their classes. We decided it was worth a try and so did a trial week. Just a few classes really turned my son's self esteem around and I was so impressed and grateful! I had a word to them ahead of our visit and they did some self esteem work as a group and it made all the difference not to mention learning to block a punch creates self esteem too. Each month there is a different theme for life skills discussed and taught to the kids. Wonderful to have such a great program in our community where kids can be taught great life skills. Thanks Dojo!!! read more

The Dojo is like family to us! My husband and I take the fitness classes and karate classes also. Phil and Robin are just the best -- very knowledgeable and kind. The classes are great -- you get a fantastic workout, and the instructors make sure the exercises are performed safely and they can always modify the exercises for those with injuries. I enjoy going each morning as the people in class have become friends as well as workout partners! read more

The Dojo has been one of the best things to happen to my family. Last year my son wanted a Karate birthday party, and boy do Sifu Phil and Sifu Robin throw a great time for the kids! We started going on a regular basis the month before his birthday party so he would have some of the techniques down, and he is still going 3-4 times a week nearly a year later ~ simply because of the motivation and confidence that the instructors instill in these kids. Each month and each week, there is a focus - for instance, February they will be doing Behavior and this week the kids focus on self control. The Sifus bring in real world situations to add purpose to the karate moves they are teaching. As well, they incorporate the values of a Blackbelt and require that the parents and the child's teacher sign off that they are exhibiting the appropriate behavior to move on to their next belt. Phil and Robin make a point to get to know the child and their families, so you always feel welcome when you come to class. As well, they are fun! If the class was all serious and hard work, I am sure my 6 year old would not be begging to go, but he wants to learn and succeed and have fun while doing it. The Dojo also offers a Dojo Fit classes at 9AM every day, and they keep you coming back for more. Between cario boxing, strength training, core work, piloxing, in just 1 month, I am stronger and can run further than ever before. Monda and Phil make your workout worthwhile and the rest of the group makes it fun! Analia who runs the front desk is fantastic and always has a smile on her face! read more

This dojo is wonderful and I would strongly encourage anybody and everybody to train there. It is a warm and often humorous envirnment that is alway family friendly. I practiced Shotokan as a young guy and then left it behind. Now many years later, I have 3 young boys and my wife signed one up with Phil and Robyn. So I went in to check it out and liked it imediately. What I liked right away was the friendly vibe. Karate can attract a weird and often insecure element that can make a dojo off-putting. I felt as though this was an accessible path back to training because I knew as soon as I spoke to Phil and Robyn there would be NO karate weirdos in their school. And I was right. I've been training with them for several years now and I love it. It's my Disneyland, my happiest place on Earth (except when with my family, of course). I'd especially want any interested adult/parent to know, this is a place you can come into knowing NOTHING about karate, and you can learn it and enjoy doing so. The Dojo Rocks! read more

My five year old daughter has been in the Kinderkicks program here for a couple of months now. She loves it more than ballet and gymnastics which is saying a lot. The instructors take basic martial arts concepts like ducking or stepping out of the way of an attack and turn them into fun games for the kids. The kids run around and have a blast while at the same time they learn valuable life skills. I especially like how every week they have a different theme they teach the kids. This week is stranger awareness week. As part of each class they talk to the kids about what a stranger is. "Strange adults don't need help from children to do things. So if a stranger walks up to you at the park and asks you to help him find his dog, what do you say?" I watched kids classes at several different schools before choosing this one for my daughter. The staff and the classes here are excellent. read more