When I joined this program a couple years ago I had just finished doing a Breathwork certification…read moreteacher training and wanted to do something that I thought was exactly the opposite of what I just learned. I pick a new trade or skill annually and learn it. This time I chose United Defense Tactical. I was never really into guns or shooting or MMA or anything like that. I'm more into film and music and what not. But after joining and finding myself thinking of perfecting my grip, stance etc, and noticing i was getting quicker, more accurate, and finding myself thinking differently about regular and routine situations, even walking into a room or where I sit at a restaurant, I found that I felt like I had greater and broader awareness of my surroundings, other people, and myself. When I first started I didn't own a firearm and originally hadn't planned to which was cool that it wasn't necessary. So don't let that hold you back from starting this. You will know when the time is right. Ive been really busy so unfortunately haven't been able to go as much as I'd like to but when I do, I get so much out of that hour I'm there. It's a great way to separate yourself from all other areas of life because it requires your entire focus, in detail. Perfect way to start or end your day. All the instructors I've had have been great. They each have their own take on it so it's beneficial to get different classes in with various instructors. Vince makes it fun and helped make the details enjoyable while showing where I needed to improve and focus more. John i originally thought was kind of tough and focused a ton on fundamentals which I'm happy he does. I find that I get a lot out of his classes bc the tone is serious and the attention to surroundings and detail is heavily focused on. Lance is good with connecting to his students and creating exercises that make you think, and can seem like a lot at first but then you surprise yourself with how good you do. Tony is good at pin pointing your weak spots and helping you get better at it. Vince does a great job of this too. Joshua is great too but I haven't taken many classes with him. I remember him slightly adjusting my draw and it helped immensely. These guys are all pros and great to learn from. If you go in with a mindset of being broken down in order to be built back up stronger then you will get so much out of this course. There's a couple other guys that I took classes from that I don't think are there anymore. Again, I haven't been in for a while, but if you're serious about getting more knowledgeable in de escalation, self defense, educated on guns and thinking in a way that makes utilizing your gun education as a last resort, and you want to become more confident in potential real life situations (that do/can happen), then this is your place. The majority of people have no training like this. It's beneficial to learn. To say the least. All these guys would be cool to use in a short action film as well. If they were interested Thanks UDT! See you soon.

SCAM ALERT: Do not give them your card!…read more Update: so funny look at their reply - trying so hard to explain their policy, but ignoring what I was offered is a paid trial and they keep charging me even if I canceled. it is a FRAUD, Check their BBB, it is a F score. I was promised a $179 per month "flexible" trial, this is specifically given that I can cancel before the trail ends and not bind to their one year membership but it was a total lie. Classes are impossible to book and the schedule is a joke. The worst part? I officially cancelled on Feb 11 and got a written confirmation saying "no further payments will occur." Today, they ILLEGALLY charged my card $200 anyway! This is straight-up fraud. They lure you in with "flexibility" and then rob you even after you quit. Save your money and stay away. I'm reporting this to the police and filing a chargeback immediately.

I enrolled my 8 year old in February, right after the New Year. I wanted to put her in an activity…read morewhere she would build confidence and learn discipline. Blackbelt collective offers 2 trials days for kiddos which was perfect to test it out. Immediately my daughter was hooked, she wanted to go every day! The monthly payment option gives you access to unlimited classes each month! My daughter has learned the core values, how to respect others, and how to protect herself. The instructors are clear, consistent, and passionate. They really care about the kids and want them to learn how to protect themselves if they are ever in danger. Communication with Mrs. Jodee, the kid's program director and the owner, Abel, has been so easy and they've answered every question that I've had along the way! Blackbelt collective Krav Maga has been a perfect fit for our family and I keep telling my friends and family about it! The goal is for my husband and myself to start adult classes soon, so we can all train as a family!

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1043161240851634?fs=e&mibextid=wwXIfr&fs=e…read more New Year, New Confidence -- For Kids, Teens & Adults If you're a parent, a family, or someone who's even thought about martial arts or self-defense, I genuinely want to share something special with our community. We've been part of Blackbelt Collective Krav Maga since 2022, and I can honestly say it has changed our lives. This school is different. Their motto is simple and powerful: "Get home safe." That's why I enrolled my kids. At the time, my middle-school son was being severely bullied. He was smaller, quieter, and struggling. After enrolling in Krav Maga, the bullying stopped completely. Not months later -- immediately. What he gained wasn't aggression... it was confidence, awareness, strength, and self-respect. He became physically stronger, mentally tougher, and more sure of himself. He has never been bullied since. Now all of my children are enrolled -- including my toddler -- and this gym has truly become family to us. Why Blackbelt Collective is different: * Strong youth program (ages 3+ through teens) * Excellent adult program (beginner to advanced) * Classes for all fitness levels -- no experience needed * Unlimited classes -- come as often as you want * Morning, midday & evening adult classes (great for working parents) * You can sit, watch, and observe your child at any time * No pressure, no ego -- just support and growth * Instructors who have been there from day one and genuinely care It's also an amazing stress reliever. If you love working out -- or even if you just need a healthy outlet -- Krav Maga is an incredible way to release stress, built-up tension, and aggression in a controlled, empowering environment. It's not just about self-defense; it's a powerful way to take care of your mental and physical health, improve stamina, strength, and overall well-being. The instructors aren't just teachers -- they become people your kids trust. As a parent, that matters more than anything. What gives me the most comfort is knowing that as my kids grow -- whether they're hanging out with friends, going downtown, or living adult life -- they will always carry their "secret weapon": the ability to protect themselves and make it home safe. New Year Special (January only!) Blackbelt Collective is currently running a great New Year deal, making it one of the most affordable and flexible programs around. Monthly Membership Options: * Month-to-month: $219/month * 6-month: $199/month * 12-month: $189/month * Enrollment fee: $100 (includes uniform shirt) Additional discounts: * $25/month off for additional family members * First responder discount: $179/month * Homeschool program: $209/month * All programs = unlimited classes First TWO classes are FREE -- just sign a waiver and try it out. This is not like some martial arts programs where you're limited to two classes a week. You truly get your money's worth here. The school is led by Senior Instructor & Owner Abel Martinez, and the entire team is patient, skilled, and incredibly supportive. If you've been on the fence, thinking about confidence, safety, fitness, stress relief, or overall health for yourself or your kids -- this is the sign. 17010 Magnolia St, Suite B/C, Fountain Valley Call or text: 714-536-7007 blackbeltcollective.com I recommend this place with my whole heart. You will see the confidence, stamina, growth -- and yes, you might shed some happy tears along the way.

Just finished a whole day of training with Greg Block and his team, and it was absolutely worth it…read more Greg is knowledgeable, experienced, and clearly knows how to teach. He breaks down fundamentals in a way that's easy to understand without ever talking down to you. You can tell right away you're learning from someone who takes safety and skill seriously. Assisting Instructors Emilio and Julie were both excellent -- attentive, professional, and supportive throughout the drills. The whole class felt structured and well run, but still relaxed enough to enjoy. It never felt overwhelming. By the end of the day, I was noticeably more comfortable handling and operating my firearm -- from basic fundamentals to controlled drills and clearing malfunctions. Everything just felt smoother. Great instruction, great team, money well spent. I'll definitely be back.

My husband and I took the basic course with Greg & team. I highly recommend Greg! He is incredibly…read moreknowledgeable and pretty funny, which helps keep you engaged when parts of the course could get dry. Courses are priced very reasonably for what you get, too. I will definitely be signing up for additional courses.

Fit defense is an amazing studio to learn all kinds of martial arts. I come for practical self…read moredefense (individual lessons so far), and Sensei Tyson is such a good instructor. I've trained extensively in Tae Kwon Do before I came to Fit Defense, and based on my past experience Fit Defense greatly surpasses my expectations. Tyson takes his knowledge of a plethora of of martial arts and boils it down to what's practical. His lessons are just enough information to remember everything, but not too much overwhelm. He is extremely well-versed in all styles of self-defense and always seeking to improve and learn more. He uses a punching bag, Bob, focus mitts, weapons, and other ways to instruct to his maximum potential. Since he is constantly building on his own knowledge, he constantly learns and teaches new techniques and forms. Fit defense also has a variety of classes, from karate for kids to practical self defense for adults. Not to mention the prices. Fit Defense won't break the bank and you'll definitely get your money's worth! Take it from me.

Fit defense is the right fit. Pun intended. I wanna say that I found them through $40 for 4 hours…read moreof kid free date night. Gonna be honest. Every 3 months they offer ninja night. They do obstacles and eat pizza and socialize. But then I saw my son really click with Tyson! Tons of the local kids come here and it's very comfortable. The one and one trainings have been a plus. Along with the group trainings for kids 6 and up. My son has been so focused and has been going at his own speed. Their membership prices is the best around for what they offer. I would def recommend them!! You won't be let down. My son is a orange belt and looks forward to his classes.

My kids have been here for one year and they really enjoy coming to class every week. The Power of…read moreLeverage has positive, respectful, and family friendly environment. All instructors are great and professional. My children have gained more confidence and discipline since joining. Highly recommend!

We love The Power of Leverage Jiu Jitsu! Both of my kids…read more(ages 4 and 7) have been attending for the past 3 months, and it truly feels like family here. The coaches are kind, patient, and super attentive--especially with the younger group (4-6 years old), where they focus on building confidence and coordination in a fun, encouraging way. For the older group (7-9 years old), the classes are offered five times a week, and having extra coaches on the mat every session means each child gets plenty of personal attention and support. My kids look forward to every class and have grown so much--physically and emotionally. Highly recommend!

Great instructors and so much fun in my private lessons! I love the group classes and time spent…read morewith other students. Go check the out!

The Brookmans do a phenomenal job at making the studio a family environment. They combine their…read moreincredible skill with an incredible ability to inspire people. Master Brookman was one of the people who trained me and helped me earn their third degree black belt. I can't say enough about how amazing this studio is.

When you walk into Gazze Academy, you're not just stepping onto a mat you are stepping into a place…read morewhere character is shaped, confidence is built, and discipline is earned through sweat and patience. Instructor Paulo Gazze Jr, is more than just a jiujitsu coach he is a mentor, a role model, and a steady hand in my son's life. The amount of time, energy, and genuine care he invests into his students especially the young ones is something rare and deeply impactful. He doesn't just teach submissions and escapes; he teaches responsibility, humility, and perseverance. Watching my son grow under his guidance has been nothing short of inspiring. I have seen him become more focused, more respectful, and more driven on and off the mat. Paulo pushes his students, but always with encouragement. He expects the best from them, and in turn, they learn to expect the best from themselves. Gazze Academy isn't just a place to train it is a place to grow up strong, kind, and capable. I couldn't be more grateful for the environment Paulo has created and the example he sets every day. My son is learning jiujitsu, yes but more importantly, he's becoming the kind of young man we can all be proud of.

It has now been 5 years into my BJJ journey and I have achieved my Purple belt at the age of 64…read more For those in BJJ they understand what an accomplishment that is. For those that know little of BJJ it is probably the greatest accomplishment in my life. Greater than when I made a big ten baseball team and even made the majors. I owe it to Jr. Jr has been a tremendous professor and has been guiding me through my journey to help Jiu Jitsu find me! I thank God for Jr and my BJJ family for my success. You owe it to yourself to give BJJ a try. Recommend you contact Jr!!

Day 1 of wrestling, my son Hayden (14) has started out with Coach Joe Solis @soliswrestling…read more@grappling_grounds For over a year now. Thanks to Coach Joe for pushing Hayden to reach new heights and for always reminding him of his capabilities. His dedication and expertise have transformed my son Hayden into a formidable wrestling opponent, and Hayden's success is a testament to Coach Joe's exceptional coaching skills! We also send my 2 younger kids, Hailey (12) and Hunter (10) to Grappling grounds where they are thriving in their wrestling journey. Truly grateful to have found a Coach that has a true passion and dedication to his craft and his students! Grappling Grounds specializes in wrestling and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. * *Professor Joe Solis of Grappling Grounds has achieved a great deal of success. He has trained in Gracie Jiu Jitsu for 20 years and obtained his black belt in 2016 under Professor Evaldo Lima, a Black Belt under legendary Royce Gracie. Joe Solis, an All American Wrestler for California Community College and a Member of a California State Championship Team where he was coached by Wrestling Hall of Fame Member Ken Bos, California legends, John Rosales, and Lyndon Campbell. Joe Solis has a wide range of wrestling experience, coaching at the High School and College level to running a successful kids program.

I've been training BJJ for 7 years and i really appreciate this Jiu-Jitsu school…read more I love the emphasis on self defense every class. Unique to other schools that's for sure. Especially in this day and she with all the public risks that exist and it's becoming more prevalent. Professor Joe is a great teacher and patient with his students. He teaches great practical fundamentals of Gracie jiu jitsu that are the building blocks of self defense and sport. Another element that he teaches is a solid wrestling base that any grappler can benefit from. I'm glad to be training there

Hands down the best decision we've made for our daughter…read more Our daughter has been attending Gracie Barra Costa Mesa for a year now and the growth we've witnessed in her both on and off the mats has been incredible. The level of instruction here is unmatched. Every coach brings not just technique and discipline but heart and intention to every class. They see each student's potential and push them to rise to it. She has advanced so much thanks to their dedication and more importantly she's gained confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging that carries into every area of her life. Jiu jitsu is more than a martial art. It is a way of life. It teaches humility, patience, manners, self-control, and problem-solving. Even at her young age, we've seen her carry herself with more focus, awareness, and kindness. She is stronger physically and mentally because of it. The studio is clean and welcoming with an energy that makes you want to stay. They offer Kangan water which is a huge bonus. There's always plenty of parking and the community here is full of amazing people who genuinely support one another. The vibes are just different--uplifting, positive, and empowering. Gracie Barra Costa Mesa isn't just a place to train. It is a place to grow. Whether you're looking for a powerful way to build confidence in your child or you're an adult wanting to challenge yourself in a life changing way, this is the spot. I couldn't recommend it more.

5/5 Review: Gracie Barra Costa Mesa Jiu-Jitsu -- Professor Elon Sets the Standard…read more Training at Gracie Barra Costa Mesa Jiu-Jitsu has been one of the better decisions we've made for our boy Ben's fitness, discipline, and personal growth. Professor Elon leads with exceptional technical knowledge, patience, and professionalism. He has a unique way of breaking down complex techniques so students at all levels -- from white belt to black -- can truly understand and apply them. The energy on the mats is focused yet welcoming. Every class challenges you to get better, but the environment remains positive, respectful, and supportive. The team embodies the true Gracie Barra values of discipline, integrity, and community. The facility itself is spotless, well-organized, and clearly run with pride. Whether you're looking to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for self-defense, improve fitness, or join a Costa Mesa BJJ family, this academy delivers. Professor Elon's leadership and attention to detail make all the difference -- he pushes you to grow technically, mentally, and physically every single class. #GracieBarra #CostaMesa #JiuJitsu #BJJ #BrazilianJiuJitsu #ProfessorElon #MartialArts #SelfDefense #OCFitness #Discipline #Community

HB Strength has all the right vibes! The environment is chill with an easy going energy while still…read morehaving the sleek high-end gym aesthetic. The owner and training team keep the equipment and facilities pristine -- making sure things are working properly and its all so clean. Each staff member I have interacted with is friendly and encouraging, there is a real welcoming feel for all fitness levels and ages. In my opinion my personal trainer Maddie is seriously the best!! After two years training elsewhere I started with Maddie and HB Strength and I have made so much progress with them! Right away Maddie helped me establish my personal fitness goals and she routinely assesses and revises my training routine to keep my strength and mobility pushing forward. She's help me correct my form on so many movements and has helped me avoid flaring up my lower back which used to happen allll the time before her training! Im finally making gains because I can move more weight without injury. Last week I achieved a big milestone first -- an unassisted pull up! And I am telling you, two years trying to master this and with Maddie's help and expert form correction I finally hit that milestone! Even on my days when I train alone, I still feel comfortable and capable to achieve what I need to at HB Strength Plus the recovery room is amazing -- sauna + cold plunging always sets me up for optimal recovery 10/10 recommend Maddie and HB Strength if you want a great gym to elevate your fitness! HB Strength has all the right vibes! The environment is chill with an easy going energy while still having the sleek high-end gym aesthetic. The owner and training team keep the equipment and facilities pristine -- making sure things are working properly and its all so clean. Each staff member I have interacted with is friendly and encouraging, there is a real welcoming feel for all fitness levels and ages. In my opinion my personal trainer Maddie is seriously the best!! After two years training elsewhere I started with Maddie and HB Strength and I have made so much progress with them! Right away Maddie helped me establish my personal fitness goals and she routinely assesses and revises my training routine to keep my strength and mobility pushing forward. She's help me correct my form on so many movements and has helped me avoid flaring up my lower back which used to happen allll the time before her training! Im finally making gains because I can move more weight without injury. Last week I achieved a big milestone first -- an unassisted pull up! And I am telling you, two years trying to master this and with Maddie's help and expert form correction I finally hit that milestone! Even on my days when I train alone, I still feel comfortable and capable to achieve what I need to at HB Strength Plus the recovery room is amazing -- sauna + cold plunging always sets me up for optimal recovery 10/10 recommend Maddie and HB Strength if you want a great gym to elevate your fitness!

Personal training with Maddie…read more I truly enjoy working with Maddie as my personal trainer. I started training with her to address some deficiencies related to an injury, and she immediately created a customized plan that took my limitations into account while protecting me from further harm. Maddie makes every workout enjoyable with her easygoing personality. She strikes the perfect balance between pushing me and encouraging me without ever feeling overbearing. She's incredibly knowledgeable about body mechanics, anatomy, and movement, and always demonstrates each exercise beforehand so I have a clear visual. What I appreciate most is how attentive she is during each session. Maddie gives real time cues on my form, which not only helps protect my injury but also ensures I'm building strength and muscle correctly. Her fun banter makes the sessions something I genuinely look forward to, while still challenging me enough to keep progressing. I cannot recommend Maddie enough as a personal trainer, book now!