After class, I noticed my daughter was sad and asked her why. She explained that she and her classmates had worked very hard, but the instructor only picked a girl for the reward, even though that girl had spent a long time in the bathroom during the class. No one else received any prizes. I did notice there was one happy girl walking out of the class, but many others had sad, disappointed faces. My daughter felt it was unfair. I encouraged her to speak up to the instructor, and I also inquired about the criteria used to select for reward. The next day, I received a long email that not only judged but also insulted my parenting skills. The email included condescending statements like, "I do not mean to insult but it is what it is," and "I have way more experience at parenting than you guys." I was also told that I "need to apologize to Sensei Shannon in front of Amia to show respect to the authority." This kind of response implies that she believes she is better and more experienced at parenting, which is both presumptuous and offensive. My child respects her teachers. Questioning or addressing concerns is not a sign of disrespect; it is a necessary part of ensuring her well-being and growth. As parents, it is our right and responsibility to question and address any aspects of the program that we feel are not in our child's best interest. This does not equate to disrespect; it equates to involvement and advocacy. We are not here to be judged and insulted by the owner Stef when raise concerns; we are here to ensure that our child receives the best possible environment for her growth. To all the moms and dads out there, I strongly suggest reconsidering this place due to its values and practices before enrolling. The owners are defensive and confrontational, refusing to accept any constructive feedback. I am also attaching the owner's emails in screenshot. read more

USSD 4S Ranch - The email from the owner - Karate Near Me - San Diego, California

We are so grateful that USSD 4S RANCH is part of our tribe. Our son has been attending for 1.5 years, and this studio has given him great martial arts skills, but also confidence, a sense of purpose, and a community. Our child has had a rough few years with physical challenges and the mental health struggles that can accompany his diagnosis. All of the senseis are mindful of this and are helping him break down the barriers that have been created. They treat him like one of their own and like the awesome human he is. We are forever grateful. read more

Great dojo with fantastic instructors! If you are looking for a place to turn your kids into leaders, look no further!

I cannot say enough about the owners and instructors at this studio. The care they show for the students is unmatched. The devotion they commit to providing a fun, safe and educational place for the children is truly a blessing. We plan to be part of this family for years to come. read more

If I could give this place more stars I would. The Sensis, every single one of them are awesome! My daughter started June of 2018, and she was a very shy, quiet, and timid little girl. The moment she start class, She start to flourish! They have an amazing study area for kids too. If they need to come early or stay a little later- they have an area to color, draw, or do homework! It's awesome. It's super clean, and organized as well! It's an all around great studio- from classes, to staff.... all of it! read more

This martial arts studio and the ALL the Sensei's are amazing. My 5 year old (almost 6 ) has been coming here for some time now. She's has gained a lot more confidence, patience, discipline and compassion. Not only does this show in her martial arts but she also shows it at school and playing with her little sister. There are children of all ages at the school and there are adult classes as well. They have group classes and private classes. Oh and a lot of motivation, encouragement and positivity at this place. There are times when I want to jump in and do the drills too. read more

We have always loved our experience with USSD 4S Ranch but we are even more impressed with the dojo's response to training during Covid. There has been no interruption to the progress my children have been making with their practice and in fact USSD 4S Ranch has continued to find ways to add value and opportunities for their students. read more

Our daughter loves going to USSD and has really improved her karate skills. The instructors are patient but still challenge the students to improve at their own pace. Stephanie and her team have done a great job through Covid by using live, virtual classes and training videos. We highly recommend this dojo! read more

See all

My husband was right. After 3 years of volleyball w/o much progress my husband and I decided to try encouraging our 12yo daughter to try Karate. The husband made the argument of an "individualized sport" where you compete against yourself instead of others. At first I wasn't sold but after meeting Will I was. We decided on a Monday night that she should try karate. We decided on a Monday night to checkout the studio. We decided on a Monday night it was a done deal. Yes, same Monday. Our daughter's been in class for about 2 weeks now and we are already seeing some change in her. First of all, she loves going to class. (we've never seen her so motivated) second of all she is picking up more that just punches and kicks. All the things we talk about at-home didn't hit-home until Will said them in class. When we observed one class and saw "how to treat your family w/ respect" on the board we just both chuckled and giggled. Seriously, this is what she needed. This has boosted her self confidence, it's giving her the exercise she needs and she is learning so much. Lastly, Will is awesome. He makes me kids super comfortable while maintaining a very respectful environment. We are super happy we signed her up. read more

Just want to echo the positive reviews of the other parents here. USSD 4S Ranch has really done wonders for our son's confidence since he began about a year ago (yes, during COVID times!). Yes, your child will build strength and develop physical skills, but the true benefits of martial arts training are mental - it helps build confidence, discipline, and respect. We look forward to seeing our son grow and flourish here under the watchful eyes of the Senseis! read more

As the Dad of a high energy 5 year old I found this studio perfect for allowing him to experience structure as he vents energy in a productive manner. Tim Rocks. When you sign up for monthly classes you'll meet up 3 times a week (2 group and 1 private). The format allows for training and fun throughout the week. Typically you could drop your karate student off and indulge in a little shopping (45 minute classes). Next to Cost Plus. read more

Great staff and senseis! We have been with them for years and all the while they have been dedicated and caring. Look no further.

Stop spamming me!!!! I've already canceled my membership after 1 month in July and repeated asked to be removed from your mailing list. I keep getting text messages from random numbers that you guys are not having class. Or to bring certain things to class. This is a violation of Federal Trade Commission regulations - https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0350-text-message-spam I considered going back after I cancelled but not now ever. this is ridiculous, if I'm getting these messages think about how many other people who have also canceled are getting these messages. read more

The instructors here are fantastic. They really take the time to get to know each child individually and work with their unique personalities and abilities. They strike a great balance between being fun & kind while at the same time demanding attention, obedience & greatness. read more

My 5-yr old daughter loves this place! I've seen a huge spike in her ability to focus and she is having fun. Sensei Will is the best. They don't only teach Karate but they also try to build a community by doing holiday activities, "ninja" days, supporting a local women's shelter, and picnics. After 3 months of watching my daughter, I also decided to take their adult classes (I'm 38). I've found that I now have more energy, in better moods, and lost 15 pounds - AND - I get to share something with my daughter. Sign up! The best dojo in town. read more

I can't say enough about this place! I have a 7 year old boy and an 8 year old girl and they have grown by leaps and bounds because of the amazing staff and wonderful teachings. My son has become more focused and disciplined while my daughter has gained confidence and improved in her agility and coordination. There is a huge emphasis on family values here that I absolutely love! Sensei Will is a fantastic instructor that all kids can't help but fall in love with. Sensei Stefanie is extremely knowledgeable and is one of the most caring by people I know. We love being a part of the USSD family! read more

USSD 4S Ranch - Sensei Will teaching a private lesson with my kids! - Karate Near Me - San Diego, California

Great dojo with wonderful group of sensei. Big shout out to sensei Will. After taking my daughter there for couple of months, I decided to join as well since they have adult classes. I enjoy the teaching environment they create for kids and adults. USSD 4S = learn karate + get fit + have fun. read more

USSD 4S just isn't a karate studio, it is a community. My sons enjoy going there for classes. Martial Arts at USSD is more than just kicks...there is meditation, stretching, and athletic endurance. The instructors are phenomenal and challenge the students to reach their full potential while maintaining a respectful and fun atmosphere. read more

My son has been attending Bridge the Breakthrough karate since July of 2017. We had tried other sports for my super energetic 4 year old Aiden. He would cry when he had to go to soccer or swimming so I was frustrated and needed something for my son to enjoy. He loves karate. He actually looks forward to his classes. The instructors are absolutely amazing. We have 3 classes a week. Each day we have a different instructor which I really love because each instructor brings a different dynamic while maintaining fundamental skills. My son is learning how to be focused and follow directions which has always been hard for him. I also find it amazing that they work with kids with a myriad of special needs as well. read more

USSD is the best place you can take your kids for learning this individual sport. Sensei Will, Sensei Stephanie, every other assistant instructor there are extremely patient and most importantly love what they do. You can tell this is a place full of positive energy. There is a reason why it is called Team Focus because that is what it is. A team, with individuals that know the meaning of focus. Could not have asked for a better place for our sons to learn karate. read more

My son started lessons two months ago only and he has learned a lot already!!! He loves all his sensei"s and is looking forward to going to class every time. As a parent, I personally like him coming here because I feel safe leaving him behind and just come back when the lessons are done. I also like it that they have behavior standards that they encourage the kids to work on. Kids not only learn to focus and get fit but they also develop better discipline and self control. Thank you USSD 4S Ranch! (Minnie) read more

My son joined more than a year ago and he is loving it. Sensei Will along with all of the teachers at USSD are super nice and sincere. He is learning Technics/Forms and he is being exposed to proper conduct/mannerism. My son says: they teach you a lot. Thank you United Studios of Self Defense read more

We have been with the studio only a short time but my 5 year old son LOVES karate nights. Sensei Will is amazing. The schedule is open and flexible. Multiple locations is a plus. We are very pleased! read more

My 5 year old has been taking Karate at USSD 4S Ranch for almost two years now and I've been extremely impressed with their program. They are exceptionally good with kids and keep it fresh and interesting. However, they go far beyond karate instruction to provide motivation, inspiration and training to the whole entire family. It feels more like a community than just a place to take lessons. I highly recommend them. read more

My 8yo son has been with USSD 4S Ranch for about a year now and I have seen an incredible difference in him. He's growing and maturing with good values that we teach at home and are supported through this studio. He absolutely loves the program and Sensei Will and especially the light saber classes. When I asked him specifically what he loves about the program, he said he likes that he does the techniques on his own (once he's learned it) as opposed to following someone through a routine. I appreciate how flexible they are with rescheduling and how kind and respectful they are to everyone. I am impressed with the older students, such as the brown belts, who have offered a helping hand or a kind word at any opportunity, including young kids! They are definitely doing this program right and I'm happy to be a part of the USSD family. read more

I absolutely love this studio and the entire staff. Sensei Will, owner Stephanie, Ben, Kady and all the other instructors are extremely kind while teaching the discipline my son needs for karate. They have transformed him in so many ways. He's been going to class for one year now. Prior to joining, he was bullied in school and didn't know how to respond. He had a hard time focusing on school tasks and came home with behavior notes frequently. He also lacked the self confidence he needed to make friends. The karate instructors taught him how to perform in front of others, defend himself, focus, and pay attention to his physical health. He's attended a tournament, obtained his new belts, and even had a birthday at the studio. He enjoys going so much that he's invited his friends to join him. The difference karate has made in his life is remarkable. I strongly recommend this studio to everyone. read more

My 6 year old son has been a student at USSD for 3 years now, and my 4 year old daughter decided to follow in his footstepsand joined a few months ago. This is not just a karate studio, its our second home. The instructors are like family. Sensei Will is extremely patient with the kids. I am in constant awe of the respect he earns from each of his students. Both of my children are making amazing progress. I can't recommend this place enough! read more

My 12 year old son started classes 6 months ago and loves it. Sensei Will and Sephanie are amazing and teach not only karate, but respect, discipline, and all sorts of other wonderful life lessons. The classes focus on real life self-defense issues that kids can relate to. We tried out a few different places in 4S Ranch and this one wins hands down. read more

My Son has been going here for a few months. He absolutely loves coming to see Sensei Will, Andrew and Stephanie! This place is such a positive environment, teaching my 4 year old so much! He has learned to be focused, respectful of his peers and an overall better member of our community. He is learning so much more than karate! I would recommend this place to anyone looking to get their child into a extracurricular activity. My Son looks forward to coming each time! read more

My 6 years old daughter started self-defense at USSD 4S Ranch 1.5 years ago. She likes the sensei and the classes. She learnt a lot of positive attitudes towards challenges, which we believe will be very helpful for her growth. Not to mention she's having great fun there! read more

We moved to San Diego in August and because our son had expressed interest in karate, we were new to town and wanted to get him involved in an activity where he could meet friends, we chose USSD in 4S Ranch. It has been the greatest experience on so many levels. The instructors are wonderful, positive and great influences on the kids. There is definitely focus on karate, however they use karate as the vehicle to impact the childrens lives and teach them valuable life and character bundling skills, which is exactly what we want and hope for our children. We will definitely enroll our two year old daughter when she turns three! read more

First, there are not enough words to say how wonderful the staff are! The team is awesome! They love what they do and they are all very good at what they do! I am 48 and was way out of shape! I was pretty athletic in my younger days, but the day to day life caught up to me. I have been working out at 4s Ranch for almost a year now and I feel fantastic! Not only am I feeling fantastic, but I am having a ton of fun too! I now have a karate family who is there to support me all the way! If you have children bring them in! The staff are really great with children as well! I can guarantee your kids will leave with huge smiles on their faces. Give them a call, you will not regret your decision! read more

Sensei Will, Sensei Stefanie and Sensei Andrew are truly amazing, dedicated, and talented teachers. My son has been studying karate for 9 years, the past 5 years have been at the 4S Ranch USSD studio. My son has learned so much more than just karate, he has learned discipline, integrity, leadership, commitment, focus and patience. The studio emphasizes the importance of being the best person you can be. They stress the importance of family and friend relationships, excelling in school, and being a role model. When your student joins the studio, they become part of a community/family. There is so much more to Bridge the Breakthrough than just learning the art of karate. As my son trains to take his black belt test in a few months, we are so proud of him, and are grateful to the incredible dedication, encouragement and positive environment that the Sensei's have provided over the years to him and our family. read more