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 had always wanted to take a self defense class and had seen great reviews about Justin and this…read morestudio. My girlfriend and I attended a class and it was really fun! Justin and the other participants in the class were really welcoming and helpful in giving us tips on form and technique. We are definitely going to be returning!

Was very impressed with my recent Krav Maga course taught by Joey and Justin. Just the right…read morebalance of foundational information, skills development, scenario practice, and real life impact of combatant choices. The instructors read the room very well in terms of when they needed to change the pacing.

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

My family booked a 2-hour private Krav Maga lesson with Yuri. It was honestly one of the best…read moredecisions we've made. Yuri comes directly from Krav Maga royalty with training straight from Israel, and the quality of his instruction shows immediately. He taught us proper fighting stance, how to break out of different chokeholds, and how to prevent a fight before it starts. Everything felt practical, real-world, and surprisingly easy to learn under his guidance. The session was so good that we all agreed to attend weekly lessons. If you want real Krav Maga taught by someone world-class, go see Yuri. Highly recommend.

I love Krav Maga of OC. This place was highly recommended to me by a good friend and colleague…read more All the instructors are first-class! They are completely invested in your success, and will continually challenge you, because they care enough to ensure that you are prepared to handle any situation on the street. I really like Yuri, Gal, Jonathan (Asian guy), the two Asian ladies (Jackie & ing? they are tough as nails, sorry can't remember all names). Big shout out to ownership and everyone involved in Krav Maga OC for their guidance, support, and inspiration! I've been into self defense since I can remember. I have my guns, my knives, etc... that said, l needed to learn Krav Maga... ESPECIALLY during these unfortunately CRAZY TIMES as antisemitism is at an all time high. This little Jewish lady was not raised to be a victim! Anyhow, i have been practicing defending with knives at home, spend quite a bit of time shooting at the range, etc... but having the tools and skills stated above would be more beneficial with some Krav Maga training... being attacked on the street is a completely different experience when you're dealing with an attacker in real life than in a controlled environment. I want to be prepared just in case G-D forbid I have to implement these techniques in real life. I truly look forward to learning more and refining my skills. That being said, I highly recommend Krav Maga OC. Yuri, his team, and those who are in my classes continue to impress me with their deep reservoir of knowledge and talent. Todah Rabah!

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.

This review is long overdue. My son, who is almost 5, has been attending this jiu-jitsu program for…read morenearly a year, and the changes I've seen in him have been truly life-changing. We tried several other trial classes before, but I can confidently say that Triunfo is the best MMA/jiu-jitsu gym for both adults and kids. Every instructor is incredibly patient, supportive, and genuinely invested in helping each child thrive. You can tell they truly care. The drills, structure, and sparring are thoughtfully done and really help build confidence, discipline, and focus in a fun and safe way. A special thank you to Chelsea for welcoming my son with open arms from day one it honestly makes me emotional thinking about how supported he has felt here. The entire staff has been so patient with him, encouraging him, guiding him, and teaching him all the "bad-ass" moves he loves while still keeping everything age-appropriate and positive. I truly cannot recommend a better dojo than this. If you're looking for a place that will take amazing care of your child and help them grow not just physically, but emotionally too this is it , super structured . love - KN family

After the week trial my daughter and I signed up. Chelsie and the team are welcoming and beyond…read moreknowledgeable. They have world class coaches and staff. My daughter being part of the mini's I wanted somewhere I felt safe taking her and Triunfo has built itself to be family friendly and oriented. Adult classes are fantastic and everyone has been super welcoming and friendly. Couldn't recommend Triunfo more. It's incredible

CHECK YOUR CREDIT CARD STATEMENT - this gym will re-activate your cancelation and then offer you…read more"credit" to continue at their gym. A Really Good Thing about this gym is that you get preferential treatment if you speak Portuguese. Other than this, it is a GREAT studio if you are pushing your child toward competitions.

As the grandparents for our 6-year-old grandchild, we wish to register our 1000% support and…read moreappreciation for the classes my grandson has enrolled in at your AOJ Costa Mesa facility.  Under the strong guidance and leadership of coaches Leo and Caro, we have noticed our grandson grow on so many levels that we believe are attributable to his classes. There are too many attributes to even list, but his ability to listen, focus, and of course be a kind warrior is truly remarkable.  Coach Leo and Coach Caro are truly fantastic teachers and role models, and we wish to thank you for contributing to his growth and maturation. Job well done!

I first saw the USSD demo team perform at a local event and I was left super impressed by the demo…read moreteam, which consisted of all youth. I was also drawn in by the sensei as she was incredibly nice, but yet respect she was given by the students show great discipline. I walked into the dojo with my 3 year old and the rest was history. Arya is 4 now and has been a part of this great family for 1 now with her yellow belt and growing wiring martial arts in every session. This is what the DOJO is. A family. Thank you USSD for embracing us and for nurturing a great sense of confidence in our little Arya. She loves her Dojo and so do we.

Great family friendly dojo. My kids love it here and the staff are amazing!! The class schedules…read morework well with our family demands and our kids have developed great self defense skills, confidence, and bonds with their dojo mates. Highly recommend.

This dojo, the other students and the senseis have been a second home and family to my son. Not…read moreonly is he learning a martial art but he has also gained confidence. He just earned his blue green stripe belt from USSD. Semsei Jerod and Sensei Greg helped make this possible.

Very knowledgeable and helpful. We've been going since Covid shut things down. My kids have…read moreadvanced ranks and have enjoyed the private lessons and STORM program too.

Great teachers. Very patient and kind. Spend the proper amount of attention to everyone in the…read moreclass.

So far so good, learning YMAA Qigong and Tai Chi meditation and martial skills. Looking like I…read morewill get what I put into it. Have met great people on this path and great leadership at the helm.