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    Urban Kempo

    4.6 (13 reviews)
    Closed 3:00 pm - 9:00 PM

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    5 years ago

    This place is really great and the Senseis have a real gift with children especially Sensie Sean. I'm so happy to have found this place.

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    10 years ago

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    Michael H.

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    Review Highlights - Urban Kempo

    My son started training here in August 2013 and he has grown and developed leaps and bounder under Sensei Mike.

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    Pentagon Mixed Martial Arts - MMA with Moms!

    Pentagon Mixed Martial Arts

    4.8(88 reviews)
    1.6 miColumbia Heights

    Training here has been such an unbelievable experience , this gym is great for anyone from a day…read moreone beginner up to a professional fighter. The Muay Thai coaching is some of the best I've experienced in many years between instructors who have fought at the highest levels , won national titles and local champions etc .. facilities and equipment are clean and plentiful. Robust kids program and grappling as well. If you're in the area do yourself a favor and train here as soon as you can ! Edit : And to be clear , I'm from out of town on business , didn't know anyone here and the front staff , coaches , and members did a fantastic job making me feel welcomed and invited in a new place.

    I love this place. I…read moremoved here from Denver for a job and the first thing I did was look for a Muay Thai gym recommendation, and this was the gym that was recommended. It was so important to me that I even chose my house to be close to this gym. When I got here it did not disappoint. Almost immediately I met kru Jom who has since taken my Muay Thai to the best level. To be completely honest, I move with a lot of Ego. I thought I had to be fast , strong, and impressive in order to be "good at martial arts" and kru Jom called me out immediately. "Sahira, I need you move more. Too tense" and "Sahira, I need you play more". In the 5 month I've been working with Kru Jom I've become more playful and relaxed in my motion, which is also translating into my regular life. Anger issues have noticeable decreased and I find myself applying Kru Jom's life philosophy into my healing practice as well (I'm a chiropractor). Kru Jom is my guy, and the entire gym holds excellent standards and requires high levels of discipline from me, which is the environment I thrive best in. "Train. Win. Repeat." is our motto, and it holds true both in the gym and outside of the gym. If you want friends to sweat with, play with, and get better with, this is the place for you. Oh, and we have a cold plunge and sauna as well as an entire boxing ring. The amenities are great, and the community is better.

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    Pentagon Mixed Martial Arts
    Pentagon Mixed Martial Arts
    Pentagon Mixed Martial Arts

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    Evolve All - Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class students at EvolveAll. Fun moments.

    Evolve All

    4.9(27 reviews)
    1.7 miColumbia Heights

    Evolve All is awesome and I am pleased to leave a review of them…read more I recently checked out Evolve All since I was in town but wanted to train (muay thai/striking) in a friendly learning environment. I was in town for such a short time that it'd be better for me to drop-in classes rather than buying a monthly membership. Evolve All was just the place for that. The owner, Emerson, made me feel welcome when he responded to my inquiry saying that he'll find me someone who'll work with me. That special attention to individuals is definitely what separates a warm/welcoming gym from the rest of the pack. When I went to train, I saw how beautiful the space is. Green and white mats lined practically everywhere. Coach Elijah worked with me and another student and I can honestly say that if I were still in Arlington, VA (I returned to Philly), I would be a member of Evolve All because of my interactions with the staff/coaches, the facility, and the training + community there. Overall, Evolve All is a great family-oriented gym. I can't recommend it enough for anyone who is searching for their next spot to train and looking to level up while still feeling like part of a friendly/welcoming community.

    This review is from the perspective of someone new to DC and new to martial arts. I tried two other…read moregyms before settling on EvolveAll. There was hardly a contest, in terms of the welcome my roomie and received, as well as the kindness of the staff and owner. I chose a BJJ membership where I have the opportunity to join about three classes per week (as a beginner, more as you grow), access to a weight-lifting space, and free reign to practice rolling when there is a free mat. I CANNOT speak enough about the amazing crew that runs EvolveAll. The owner and general manager take the time to truly make you feel welcomed and excited to be in their space. The instructors are of the highest level and ensure that you understand new moves and drills on an individual level. They make sure to invite experienced members to the beginner classes so that way new members can train with someone who's comfortable with the movements. I HIGHLY recommend EvolveAll for individuals of all ages, skill levels, and fitness. Every class starts with some conditioning, goes into a couple of moves, and ends with optional free rolling.

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    Evolve All - Kids martial arts classes at EvolveAll. Inside biceps control testing. This is a great technique for self defense training.

    Kids martial arts classes at EvolveAll. Inside biceps control testing. This is a great technique for self defense training.

    Evolve All - Brazilian Jiu Jitsu crew during a workshop with EvolveAll's affiliate professor Cesar Cabrera

    Brazilian Jiu Jitsu crew during a workshop with EvolveAll's affiliate professor Cesar Cabrera

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    Fifty/50 Martial Arts Academy - B.R.A.V.E Women's Self-Defense Course

    Fifty/50 Martial Arts Academy

    4.9(31 reviews)
    4.9 miFalls Church City

    I've been wanting to train here for years so the bar was high and it exceeded expectations from the…read moreminute I walked in the door! The environment was so friendly and welcoming. Family oriented with kids and parents all there to hang and train. Snacks and some play areas for kids and a beautiful bright matted area with amazing pictures from Ryans career fighting and cornering the most recognizable faces in the game. The instruction was absolutely incredible I cannot recommend Ryan and his academy more. Definitely check it out if you are in the area I wish I could train here more! - Nick Lamagna

    High recommend this martial arts academy!…read more Our kids have been going here for about 10 months and love it. Started with BJJ, but then switched to capoeira which they enjoyed more because of the acrobatics. The coaches and staff are really supportive and patient with the kids. The gym is pretty big and they have cameras so parents can observe from the lobby. Parking can be tough if you don't get there early, but there's room on the neighboring side streets which aren't too far away. Typically there's always people leaving between classes so I have always been able to find a stall. The prices are reasonable. Upfront costs may seem high, but it includes the uniform and which they need anyway. Otherwise it's a great price. They also offer discounts for siblings, military, etc.

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    Fifty/50 Martial Arts Academy - Ryan Hall and his Black Belts

    Ryan Hall and his Black Belts

    Fifty/50 Martial Arts Academy - Coach Ryan Hall winning the TUF 22 Finale in Las Vegas on Dec 11, 2015.

    Coach Ryan Hall winning the TUF 22 Finale in Las Vegas on Dec 11, 2015.

    Fifty/50 Martial Arts Academy - Mini 25/50's

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    Mini 25/50's

    Krav Maga Federation

    Krav Maga Federation

    5.0(4 reviews)
    2.7 miWest End

    After my first class I had doubts about whether I should learn Krav Maga under Brian or should I…read morereturn to Nova MMA where I took three classes in the past. In Nova MMA, I got to actually hit and learn combinations right away. As for Krav Maga Federation, you won't get to this until you pass your beginner test to the yellow belt. That being said, I do not regret sticking to KMF and not learning under a different instructor. After a few classes you actually realize that learning combinations and hitting stuff might not be the best idea because your form is awful and needs some serious work. Our classes are usually small, so Brian will give you a lot of attention. Even if you are standing in the back, Brian will see you and pick on you until you get the form right. Now, speaking about Brian. He is really patient with us. He will ask us after showing a new move or re-showing us a new move, if we have any question. If we do, he will answer the question regardless of how repetitive the question is or how ridiculous it might be. I haven't done any martial arts since I was a child and I didn't think I'd do again because I hated every instructor I had when I was a kid. That's different with Brian. However, Brian is a bit strict. He will not allow people to practice if they show up after hours. Keep that in mind when you are signing up for classes. If you are not sure you can make the times then talk with Brian or figure out a way to show up on time. Most of the class usually shows up fifteen minutes early to warm up and stretch and sometimes one will go over a move with Brian. I would definitely recommend KMF for anyone who is looking to learn Krav Maga.

    I have over 10 years of martial arts experience in Hapkido, Judo and Taekwando, and must say, Krav…read moreMaga is the most practical thing I've tried. As the other reviews and Wikipedia state (check them for a more in depth description of the art), most martial arts teach based on some rules of fighting -- no groin shots, biting, etc. Krav Maga is all about training you to survive a dangerous situation, and consequently relishes these taboo techniques. It is all about developing your muscle memory and instincts so that, when it really counts, you avoid the deer-in-headlights effect. Ditto for speed/aggression: other martial arts focus on control and fundamentals for years before you get to anything practical. In my experience with Krav Maga, it starts with practicality from the get-go, and control, respect, technical excellence come as a by-product. This brings me to my first critique. I don't feel like people have developed the proper amount of control for the level of techniques we do. On our tests we are supposed to go a full speed and stop right before striking your partner. Yet I can't say that I'm totally confident that I won't get hurt as I train with some of the others. In contrast, I'd trust my Hapkido partners with a full speed spin heel kick to the head. This is probably a difference in philosophy between the Korean martial arts and Krav Maga, and shouldn't be seen as a critique of Krav Maga Federation DC. Likewise with technical excellence. If you want a pretty kick, a beautiful throw, a quiet roll, look elsewhere. If you want a spiritual, cultural, or historic connection to your martial art, Krav Maga probably isn't the best art for you. But if you want to learn how to defend yourself in a practical situation, period, Krav Maga is a go. On that note, Brian, the instructor, is really a great guy, a good teacher, and a skilled practitioner. He's a bit rough around the edges and intimidating at first (don't think about showing up late), but just stick it out and it will pay in spades after a few weeks of training. He's one of the most friendly and dedicated instructors I've had, once I got to know him. Krav Maga Federation DC is also associated closely with Krav Maga Federation, which is based in lower Manhattan and is a powerhouse organisation. I've gone there twice now, had wonderful workouts, played with world experts, and been welcomed as a member of the family (except that one time that Rhon laid into me). All in all I really like this club. If you are not a dainty flower or a meathead you will too. Actually, if you are a dainty flower come anyway. In short time you will not be.

    KravWorks

    KravWorks

    5.0(13 reviews)
    3.8 miFalls Church City

    I've been taking Filipino martial arts here since i moved back into the area in 2021. The people…read moreare amazing, the cost of classes is the lowest I've seen. (I've been doing Kali for a long time and have had to pay triple what they charge). I love all the coaches and the community here is really great. The gym is super supportive and coming every week has been a big highlight to my weeks.

    The smartest decision I ever made…read more I have been attending this gym for almost a year now. Classes are frequent and at times convenient to all schedules. The instruction is top notch and you will not only get a great workout, but you will learn life saving techniques to get yourself out of trouble. The gym is pretty basic - think no a/c or heat. Train like you fight. They offer Krav Maga, Jiu Jitsu, and Filipino Martial arts (think stick/knife fighting - which is my favorite :)). It's no nonsense, get it done type of training. This isn't training for martial arts sports, you're training to end the fight and get out of the situation. In addition to the classes (almost 7 days a week), you can participate in sparring on Saturday mornings. No invite needed, just show up and feel what it's like to fight someone fighting you rather than a willing victim that you get during the week during training. There is gear you can borrow for the day, but I highly recommend getting your own as soon as possible. There really is no other way to learn to fight than with someone that's uncooperative. This gives you a chance to try a new things that you've learned to see it in action in real-life. You'll love it!

    Shaolin Traditional Kung Fu - Shaolin Health & Wellness Program.

    Shaolin Traditional Kung Fu

    5.0(4 reviews)
    4.8 mi

    Let me start by saying that if I could give more than 5 stars to a place, this would be it. Shifu…read moreChris and his wife manage and instruct students in this family-owned dojo. Shifu (master in Chinese) Chris is an excellent teacher. He has been doing martial arts for almost his own life, and he is very knowledgeable. He had spent 13 years in China working with different masters. As a result, he is an expert in different styles of martial arts such as Chinese boxing, Kung fu Shaolin. Following his mission to keep Shaolin kung fu alive in the US, he started this dojo in VA. Currently, they offer two free sessions to let people experience the school before joining. I joined this class after participating in two free sessions. The environment and students in the dojo are great. Everybody is friendly and respects each other. From a covid standpoint, everybody wears a mask throughout the class, and there are sanitizers for both hands and equipment. Each session includes warmup, practicing the basics, form, partner work, and meditation at the end. Shifu Chris changes the structure of the class and always has new activities and challenges in each session. After two months of going to this class, I already feel really accomplished. I am able to do basic techniques and self-defense. It had even effects on my day-to-day life and helps me to be more focused. I recommend this class to whoever is looking for martial arts or even looking for a fun and effective workout class.

    Wonderful experience, great exercise, friendly classmates. The sessions have everything I enjoy --…read morestretches, warm ups, boxing, defense, individual and partner work, meditation, some qi gong... lots of variety and progressive mental/physical challenges so you're never bored and always growing. I started this class three months ago feeling very out of shape -- and as a total beginner to martial arts. Now, I feel like I have energy enough for classes, plus I'm starting to hit the gym more too and feel less stressed during the work week. It's definitely the kind of work out that isn't a chore -- it's energizing. Come take the two free lessons and try it out for yourself to get hooked too. Shifu Chris and Weiwei, who assists, are patient, thoughtful teachers who care about culture, health, and overall wellbeing. Class is always a positive, welcoming environment.

    Photos
    Shaolin Traditional Kung Fu - Kung Fu Summer Course Opening!! Join us and train with Shifu Chris-Shaolin disciple.

    Kung Fu Summer Course Opening!! Join us and train with Shifu Chris-Shaolin disciple.

    Shaolin Traditional Kung Fu - Shaolin Traditional Kung Fu Academy

    Shaolin Traditional Kung Fu Academy

    Shaolin Traditional Kung Fu - Shaolin Traditional Kung Fu Academy

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    Shaolin Traditional Kung Fu Academy

    VIDA Fitness - Ballston

    VIDA Fitness - Ballston

    4.4(59 reviews)
    0.9 miBallston

    VIDA Ballston delivers a consistently high-quality fitness experience, and SweatBox is one of the…read morebest HIIT classes in the area. The facility stands out for its attention to detail. The bathrooms and locker rooms are well-designed and clean, and the co-ed sauna and steam room are a major plus. The filtered water stations are always cold and well-maintained, and the smoothie bar is convenient. The reception staff are always friendly! SweatBox is intense, well-structured, and thoughtfully run. The music and variety keep me coming back. Providing ear plugs and cold eucalyptus towels are the many small touches that go a long way during this high-energy HIIT workout. Coach Gwen and Coach Mike are excellent instructors -- clear, motivating, and attentive to form. There are 3 other class studios and dozens of more fitness classes. I have enjoyed the yoga classes, especially Restorative and Deep Stretch. Chris also runs a great BodyPump class -- strong pacing and consistent energy. Overall, VIDA Ballston combines diverse programming with quality facilities and good service. Yes things break or require maintenance, but the team is constantly communicating this and working to upkeep their facility. Highly recommend!

    Been coming here for a few years now and I have to say it is worth the price for me now. I've taken…read moremany of the classes to include sweatbox, Pilates, barre, Zumba, and reformer pilates, just to name a few. I still wish reformer and sweatbox were included since the price for the gym isn't cheap! The facility is always well maintained and clean. i love the saunas, though those have broken a few times the management is always quick to repair the wait is usually part related. They have a wide variety of gym equipment and weight, squat racks, etc. they also offer personal training, which I have met a few of the trainers who are super nice and welcoming. It's great to workout at a gym where you are welcomed and get to know the front desk and staff. Overall, would highly recommend.

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    VIDA Fitness - Ballston
    VIDA Fitness - Ballston - State-of-the-art cardio equipment with social distancing.

    State-of-the-art cardio equipment with social distancing.

    VIDA Fitness - Ballston - 30,000 square feet of equipment and workout space.

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    30,000 square feet of equipment and workout space.

    Urban Kempo - martialarts - Updated May 2026

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