United Self Defense Academy has truly impressed me as a martial arts learning studio. My wife and I were looking for a place where our son could exert his infinite energy and we looked here. My 5 year old son, Myles, has learned and grown to control his wild energy far more than I expected with the help and patience and knowledge of his sensei's- Riley, Noah, Brenda and Ethan. They showed him balance, structure and control with his form and his actions. It is always a delight to bring him and see the smile on his face when he learns. Evan has been a great part of the process in how the operation works! Very kid friendly and an amazing staff/cast of instruct Thanks USDA in FH! read more

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This is a great academy for children to learn karate and get to move their bodies. Every sensei is so patient and kind, no child feels left out. My son would get home and be excited to show me what he learned. I highly recommend this dojo! read more

These guys are amazing. They are very friendly, professional and great with kids of all ages. Their classes are very flexible and the lessons provide a great experience for our daughter - its a mix of fun, discipline, technique. I cannot recommend them enough! read more

How do I do 6 stars?!?! I am a 44 yo learning for the first time. I never had intention of taking up karate. But I took a session, finally, after watching my daughter excel with Sensei Archie. (He now trains me, her, and my wife). Every single member of the Team is amazing. The other students are amazing. This dojo has created a culture that welcomes you, pushes you just the right amount, and pays attention to the details...and you learn how to truly defend yourself. We are fully hooked. I love going especially after a long, STRESSFUL day of work as your typical corporate professional, because all you can focus on in here is present moment. I have participated in sports my whole life (boxing included); this will be a passion of mine for years to come. I think my experience HERE will only foster this passion and growing love for the sport and history of the sport. The highest of recommendations for any adult (and child) looking for a new challenge in life. Great stuff all around. read more

Our Family absolutely loves this Dojo!!! my son has been practicing karate here for about a year and it has been a great experience. Sensei Archie has been working with my son quite a bit, he is so patient and great with kids. Everyone here is amazing to work with, my son loves all his senseis. If your little one wants to learn karate... this is the place! read more

We had a great experience with this karate and self-defense class. My son really enjoyed it and made excellent progress. The instructors are experienced, patient, and wonderful with kids. They create a positive environment and focus on teamwork and discipline. I'm very satisfied and highly recommend this program to other parents. read more

Amazing place for kids. The instructors make learning karate fun while teaching respect and confidence. My kids love going to the classes and sparring sessions. They've grown so much since joining. read more

Definitely recommend!! 10/10! They made my family feel welcomed and they are extremely good at communicating with parents to fit the needs of our busy family schedule! Very clean facility, great workers, and amazing classes!!! Thank you United Self Defense Academy for everything! read more

Really friendly and knowledgeable instructors! Our 6 and 3 year old loved it. We liked how they slowed things down and catered the lessons to our kids. read more

Extremely kid friendly dojo and the most genuinely engaged and awesome senseis! My two kids absolutely love this dojo and it has been amazing to see them grow - developing not only their skill sets but also their confidence. Both started at the age of three, going on fifth and second year. I recommend having a kid's birthday party here as well. read more

United Self Defense Academy - Chinese Martial Arts Near Me - Foothill Ranch, California

My sons started here about 3 months ago. They have never had any experience with Karate before and have learned a lot since they started! Both boys look forward to Karate because not only have they leaned so much in 3 months, they have a lot of fun doing it. The greatest benefit is that outside of the group classes, they are able to have smaller groups once a week, which really helps my boys . This is a great place to start if you or your kids are interested in Karate, and self defense! read more

This dojo is everything you're looking for and more. From the entertaining senseis to the meaningful instruction, we couldn't be happier. My son started as a timid 6 year old and he has evolved into a confident, strong ninja. They offer group and private lessons which are included in the tuition where they focus on martial arts skills, weapons and forms. But the cherry on top and what sets this dojo apart from others is the senseis. I can't say enough about the phenomenal senseis, Evan, Archie, Noah, Vincent, Tony, just to name a few. Their level of enthusiasm and commitment to each and every kid is out of this world. They make every class exciting while also fostering discipline, respect and a love of martial arts. Not only do the kids come to this dojo to learn karate, they also come for the fun, friendships and positive experience. If you're looking for a dojo where your child will grow in a safe and engaging environment, look no further. Give this place a try, you will not regret it! This is coming from a very satisfied parent of a child who's been attending this dojo for almost 3 years now. read more

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My little one is full of excitement every time he attended his lesson. The moment he puts on his gloves, he transforms into a mini champion--focused, energetic, and full of joy. He especially loves practicing combos with his classmates--it's not just great physical exercise, but also a big boost to his confidence. Throwing punches with such enthusiasm, it's clear how much he truly enjoys and grows from every session! read more

United Self Defense Academy - Earning his orange belt. - Chinese Martial Arts Near Me - Foothill Ranch, California

My Son love the Studio and the Masters. They make it fun and a good disciplined workout. There are range of group classes that supports different level of skills and ages. Sensei Evan is very supportive and easy to communicate with. Thanks read more

We love this dojo! The senseis make this place incredible. They are patient, respectful, kind and provide great structure for the kids. Our two children have been attending this studio for several months now, and we couldn't be happier with the experience. We've seen noticeable improvement not only in their martial arts skills but also their self esteem. High recommend this studio to any family looking for a supportive and high-quality program! read more

We loved popping by our Foothill Dojo today! So enjoyed seeing Sensei Evan - our first instructor to welcome the girls into karate more than three years ago. The instructors are one of the best parts about this studio. They feel like family and they're compassionate and protective when it comes to working with children; they truly care about each one. The Senseis are knowledgeable, funny, and yet firm. The dojo was buzzing with excitement, today. There were children, families and instructors all busily learning/working. Summer camp season is in full swing. And the new flooring looked great. read more

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So far, we've been really happy with our experience at USSD. I grew up doing martial arts and have seen how a few dojos operate. When we did our introductory class, our toddler was so excited. The lead instructors here do a really great job at engaging kids of all ages. Lots of energy and lots of games, and they have a "discipline" structure in place where kids do frog hops if they are a little unfocused or rowdy. They also have a good progression system through the bars and belts, though I wish the requirements/goals for achieving each bar was more clearly articulated. We paid for a welcome package which came with a backpack, gi, and head/hand gear. They have some different payment plans and are very transparent with pricing, which we appreciate a lot. Also, they have assured me that progression through the ranks is not based on time, but based on skill, which I also appreciated since I've seen some places where people can progress by either paying more money or by just being there for awhile. The membership comes with a weekly semi-private lesson consisting of a small group that's split into smaller groups with an instructor. You also get access to unlimited group classes, which have a bit more people and a different structure. Our toddler loves going to those even though he was shy for the first couple. From what I've seen so far, the focus of the dojo is on creating a welcoming environment for all and to make learning fun., which is great! I would like to see how some of the more advanced classes are conducted to get an idea of how much focus they put into technique and application at higher levels. Overall, our toddler loves it here and we've loved seeing him grow in this space so far! read more

My son is having a great experience at the dojo, sensei Evan, Archie, Noah, Anthony and all the staff are amazing with the kids. They all are patient and make the learning fun. We recommend the FHR dojo, my son confidence and discipline improved so much since he started taking Karate Classes at USSD FHR. read more

The staff are amazing and our kids love the program! They are having a blast while learning valuable skills and discipline. It's a great environment and we like practicing at their various locations for a unique experience. read more

What an amazing team of Sensei's! Evan, Noah, Archie and the whole team make this place great. My son has learned so much, they are patient and always teaching him new moves and making it fun. Definitely would recommend to anyone thinking of having their kid join karate. This is the place! read more

Highly recommend the Foothill Ranch studio! Sensei Evan, Sensei Archie, and Sensei Vincent have helped to shape my 4 and 6 year old children into mindful and respectful humans. They are not only teaching karate skills, they are also teaching life skills, with an emphasis on growth mindset. When we go to each lesson, we are immediately welcomed. The kids feel important and have so much fun while learning. The instructors understand kids so well and provide an energetic and engaging learning environment. Not every program your kid attends feels like extended family. It's a space that we look forward to going to each week, and trust that our kids are learning karate and leveling up in life! read more

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Highly recommend! Super friendly staff, awesome dojo, great atmosphere. They offer adult lessons that includes a semi-private class and unlimited group classes per week. The amazing Senseis have taught me a great deal of self-defense. Enjoying every class. read more

My 4 year old son has been training now for several months now and he is still as engaged and interested as he was his first day. Sensei Archie and Sensei Evan do a great job connecting with each student, teaching them at the child's pace, and while keeping boundaries, make the lessons fun and challenging for them. This is not something that can be taught, it is just built into their strengths as instructors and mentors. I myself am a lifelong martial artists, and from my experience I can confidently say that ANY child can come to USSD and find value in their karate curriculum and easily build a relationship with both instructors. Side note: Their business model is unlike any of the other martial arts school I've encountered, the membership includes weekly privates and group classes. I think, for my child in particular, this has been extremely beneficial to how quickly he built a bond with Sensei Archie which by extension made him more passionate about studying the art. read more

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My daughter, Sierra had such a terrific time here the last few months. I cannot say enough good things about the staff here. They were AMAZING working with the kids (my daughter is 5). I highly recommend this studio if you want to build your kid's confidence in a fun environment. read more

United Self Defense Academy - Chinese Martial Arts Near Me - Foothill Ranch, California

Excellent staff, excellent program. Our 4 year old son has been training here for about a year and it's impact on him has been more than we could ever ask for. The benefits of his physical progress, self discipline, and mental capacity to listen and learn are explicit on their own, and even more impressive when you see them all combined (both inside the dojo, and at home/school) If you're reading this review to decide as to whether or not to enroll your children, then let this review be enough to at least give it a try. In my opinion, the personal lessons that come with membership are worth the weight in gold by themselves. read more

United Self Defense Academy - The 1 on 1 mentorship & awareness of staff are perfect for making kids feel safe while concurrently pushing them out of their comfort zone. - Chinese Martial Arts Near Me - Foothill Ranch, California

Highly recommended! This studio is fantastic. Both the private lessons and the group classes are incredibly fun and everyone learns so much. The senseis are extremely friendly, funny, and knowledgeable and this studio has something for everyone from the tiniest "tiger" to older kids, to teenagers and adults. Our kids absolutely love all their classes and we love the the discipline, character, and confidence they gain from them. Honestly five stars isn't nearly enough. read more

This is a great martial arts studio. My son is 3-1/2 and likes to punch and kick pretty much everything, including his sister. . We wanted to focus him into a more disciplined approach. Sensei Archie leads his private lessons and he is so great with little kids; patient, fun, and keeps him motivated with positive reinforcement. Sensei Evan brings a great energy to the group classes that he leads, along with a few assistants to ensure all the children have proper instruction. I like that even in a large group they are still going around and checking for proper technique. It's only been one month and we are already having less sibling punches at home . read more

United Self Defense Academy - Little man heading in with his gear. - Chinese Martial Arts Near Me - Foothill Ranch, California

All the instructors were great with my son. Friendly, fun, and knowledgeable staff. I would definitely recommend anyone thinking of having their child join karate. read more

Awesome karate studio! The coaches are all wonderful and do a great job of commanding the kids' attention. USSD not only teaches the kids self defense but also patience, respect and how to follow instructions. My son loves it! Shoutout to Evan for always keeping the place running smoothly! read more

Amazing experience for my 6 year old son! We have been coming here for months and highly recommend. Staff is fun and friendly, and host a wonderful birthday party as well! read more

Highly recommend this dojo studio!! If you are looking for a safe , nourishing environment for your child -nothing can beat this place. The sensei's are spectacular and want the best for your child. Huge shoutout to Sensei Evan, Sensei Archie ,Sensei Noah to mention a few - they have such positive energy and attitude and that reflects in their trainings . My son loves coming here for both the private and group lessons . In addition to learning karate he is also trained on self discipline & focus . He has grown so much and am super excited for his journey here as he makes new friends. Oh another cool thing - they even host birthdays . We have been to a couple and our kids love it . Keep up the fab work and we are so glad to have found you . read more

My son has been taking lessons here for over a year. His confidence has blossomed. He always looks forward to the classes and cannot wait to start! He is now a purple belt and is so proud of his accomplishment. The teachers are wonderful; especially Sensei Archie & Evan. They're all very caring, encouraging and supportive to the students self esteems. We loved our experience here and would highly recommend it to anyone. Thank you so much for everything!! read more

Highly recommend this dojo for any parent looking to nurture their child's growth in a positive and encouraging environment! I've had my two kids in this dojo for the past 7 months, and I couldn't be happier with the results. All of the Senseis are so lively, dedicated, and truly know how to engage children through a perfect balance of fun play and discipline. Their ability to connect with the kids and keep them motivated is super impressive. My 6-year-old daughter's confidence has blossomed, and she looks forward to each class with excitement. For my 3-year-old son, we hoped to improve his attention span and discipline, and we've seen remarkable progress. Again, highly, highly recommend! read more

After years of training at this studio, I decided to bring my toddler son in. He loves it! The instructors are soo kind and patient. You can tell they have a lot of experience with kids of all ages. My son is able to socialize, learn new skills, and get out his energy during this session. I see us taking lessons at foothill ranch for a very long time :) read more

Our son has been going here for three years and enjoys every minute of coming here. Instructors are amazing with children and adults alike. Would recommend everyone coming in and trying a session. read more

WOW! This place went above and beyond to put on a fun event for our Bookclub. The two sensei's were so much fun and we had a blast. None of us had really had exposure to self-defense classes and this was a great learning experience. I learned a lot from just an hour and it was a great way to celebrate with friends. I highly recommend checking it out! read more

United Self Defense Academy - Chinese Martial Arts Near Me - Foothill Ranch, California

Amazing! The sensei's are really good with the kiddos. They make them pay attention in a playful way and have a reward system for good behavior. My son is 4 and obsessed with Karate now. Makes me want to Join too. read more

A very fun and positive environment! My son loves going to class especially the private lessons. Sensei Evan, Sensei Archie and the rest of the team are very encouraging and engaging with the kids. read more

Our experience at USDA has been outstanding. Sensei Evan is awesome at introducing the foundation of Karate and challenging them in fun, highly engaged methods. We've seen our daughter improve in her balance, agility, speed and hand eye coordination. She absolutely loves the Sensei's. If you're looking to get your kid into it, USDA is a fantastic Dojo to start at! Highly recommended! read more

My daughter has been at USDA for a year now and absolutely loves it! The teachers are great, especially Sensei Evan and Sensei Katie! I love how each class taught my daughter patience, confidence and hard work. Highly recommend this place:) read more