Find a self defense classes in El Cajon, CA

Find self defense classes in El Cajon, CA

Find self defense classes in El Cajon, CA

Confirm your location to see the best self defense classes near you.
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Find self defense classes in El Cajon, CA

Confirm your location to see the best self defense classes near you.
Zip code

Top 10 self defense classes in El Cajon, CA

Students agree: these teachers are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
Raul A. Diaz

Raul A. Diaz

29+ years in business
Serves El Cajon, CA & Online
Real World Training delivered with a train like you fight mentality. Extreme Fitness. Love to teach life experience-based saving techniques for those who need it.
Mobile Martial Arts

Mobile Martial Arts

18+ years in business
Serves El Cajon, CA
I am an expert with children ages 4-6 But do well for any age in general. Attention deficit and autistic individuals are welcome too. Plus there’s no need for you to travel, to your location
Dao-Dharma-Dorje Publications Ltd

Dao-Dharma-Dorje Publications Ltd

4.0(1)
1 hire on Lessons.com
3+ years in business
Serves El Cajon, CA & Online
Martial M. says, "The teacher, Mr. Michael is a very opened and humble man. The teachings are very explicit and easy to understand and put into practice. The teachings are well structured and organized. I highly recommend the school to anybody who want to learn." Read more
SyQ Jiu Jitsu

SyQ Jiu Jitsu

5+ years in business
Serves El Cajon, CA
Black belt In Brazilian Jiu Jitsu close to 18yrs of training, competing and teaching, professionally since 2014. Please DM me directly on Instagram @syq_jiujitsu Facebook SyQ Jiu Jitsu
Rōnin Martial Arts Academy SD

Rōnin Martial Arts Academy SD

17+ years in business
Serves El Cajon, CA
Established in 2008, Rōnin Martial Arts Academy, located in San Diego, California, is a veteran and women-owned business offering comprehensive martial arts training. They provide a variety of programs, including traditional and combat martial arts, firearms safety, fitness classes, and security consulting. The academy boasts a dedicated team of instructors, composed of current and retired law enforcement and military personnel. With a robust kids program and specialized women's self-defense classes, Rōnin Martial Arts Academy is committed to giving back to the community and fostering a safe, inclusive learning environment.
Tang Soo Do Karate Institute

Tang Soo Do Karate Institute

5.0(3)
48+ years in business
Serves El Cajon, CA
Marlene C. says, "My 10 year old son has been part of the Tang Soo Do Karate Institute for almost 4 years now. During this time my son has grown so much, he developed so much respect, confidence, and strength. I was surprised to see so much change in him since he started. He is just so happy to be in class and be able participate and learn something new every time. " Read more
Ryukyu Japan Karate-Do

Ryukyu Japan Karate-Do

46+ years in business
Serves El Cajon, CA
Ryukyu Japan Karate Do, also known as Ryuei Ryu Poway, is a highly respected dojo located in Poway, California. Founded in 1979, the dojo is recognized for its dedication to teaching respect, discipline, teamwork, and leadership. Known for being one of AAU's top karate schools in the U.S, it has a rich history rooted in Okinawan Ryuei Ryu Karate. Under the guidance of Arashiro Sensei, it has expanded to multiple locations across the U.S, Argentina, Caracas, Venezuela, and Europe.
Explosive Krav Maga Self Defense

Explosive Krav Maga Self Defense

2+ years in business
Serves El Cajon, CA
Explosive Krav Maga Self Defense, located in the heart of Alpine, California, caters to the surrounding areas with their exemplary self-defense training. They are dedicated and highly skilled in teaching Krav Maga, a combat and self-defense system developed for the Israeli military. Their goal is to empower individuals with the confidence and skills necessary for personal protection. Join them to learn, grow, and enhance your self-defense capabilities.
Switch Fitness

Switch Fitness

7+ years in business
Serves El Cajon, CA
Founded in 2018, Switch Fitness in El Cajon, California, is the ultimate destination for Combat Sport and Martial Arts training. This family-owned gym, founded by 5x Bellator veteran Andy Murad, offers high-quality coaching in disciplines like Muay Thai, Jiu Jitsu, Boxing, MMA, Strength & Conditioning, and Yoga. Catering to everyone from beginners to pros, it's centrally located in East County San Diego, welcoming both locals and visitors for workouts, facility tours, and browsing a fully stocked pro-shop.
Silva Jiu-Jitsu Academy

Silva Jiu-Jitsu Academy

15+ years in business
Serves El Cajon, CA
Silva Jiu-Jitsu Academy, founded in 2010, is a family-oriented martial arts academy located in El Cajon, California. They offer a variety of classes, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Judo, Wrestling, and personal fitness instruction, to students of all ages. As a women-owned business, their focus is not just on the art of self-defense, but also on building character, promoting anti-bullying strategies, and strengthening family ties. This academy believes in creating champions both on and off the mats.

Your self defense questions, answered

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Lessons.com.

How much are self-defense classes?

Self-defense classes cost $150 to $400 on average for a 6- to 10-week program at a martial arts studio or dedicated self-defense school. Classes held at community centers typically cost less than those offered by professional marital arts studios, and some local police departments and offer free classes.

Some martial arts studios offer single-session self-defense classes for $30 to $80 each, depending on the studio, class size, length, and location. Most one-time classes last 2 to 3 hours.

Are self-defense classes worth it?

Self-defense classes are worth it for individuals who want to be prepared for a life-threatening situation. A self-defense class teaches you how to recognize and avoid dangerous situations, and how to survive situations that can't be avoided. Many people consider the added peace of mind worth the investment.

Self-defense training can be especially helpful if you find yourself in any of these common circumstances:

  • Walking alone at night
  • Jogging in a secluded area, such as a wooded park or trail
  • In a crowded bar or club where alcohol is served
  • During a home invasion

Are self-defense classes effective, and what are the benefits?

Self-defense classes are an effective way to learn how to avoid dangerous confrontations and how to deescalate or escape the confrontations you can't avoid.

Self-defense classes provide a wide range of benefits:

  • Builds your confidence
  • Improves your physical fitness
  • Increases your awareness of your surroundings
  • Improves your balance
  • Provides a sense of personal empowerment

In addition to teaching you how to defend yourself against a human attacker, self-defense training can also be useful when defending yourself from an animal attack.

What do self-defense classes teach?

Self-defense classes teach you these skills to defend yourself from an attacker:

  • Situational awareness and how to detect danger where you might not expect it
  • Verbal skills to prevent or deescalate a confrontation
  • Strikes, including punches, kicks, knees, and elbows
  • How to avoid being dragged to the ground
  • Grappling techniques that are useful if you find yourself on the ground
  • How to defend yourself with improvised weapons or objects in your environment

During a self-defense class, you will practice physical skills alone and with a partner. Practicing with a partner provides a sense of what real physical contact with an attacker may feel like.

Many self-defense schools teach Krav Maga. Developed by the Israeli Defense Forces, Krav Maga remains one of the most popular defense systems among military personnel and law enforcement agencies.

What to wear to self-defense classes?

Wear comfortable athletic clothing that allows you to move freely, such as a T-shirt or tank top and leggings, yoga pants, sweatpants, or shorts. Opt for breathable moisture-wicking fabric to minimize sweating.

Where to take self-defense classes near me?

Follow these tips to find the best self-defense classes near you:

  • Decide whether you want to attend women-only classes or co-ed classes.
  • Compare costs from at least three local schools or martial arts studios.
  • Read school and studio reviews on Lessons and Google.
  • Avoid schools that include pre-rehearsed self-defense demos, as these demos typically don't reflect real-world circumstances or outcomes.
  • Visit the class location to confirm it's well-maintained and the staff is professional.
  • Ask about special offers for new students. Some schools offer a free trial class.
  • Take one class to ensure the studio is a good fit for you before enrolling in a multi-week or ongoing program.
  • Get a copy of the membership contract in writing before making a payment.

What questions should I ask self-defense teachers?

Before signing up for a self-defense class, ask the instructor these important questions:

  • How much do your classes cost?
  • Do you require a membership contract, and if so, what does it entail?
  • What is your class schedule?
  • Do you offer any specials for new students?
  • How many people are in a typical class?
  • Are your classes women-only or co-ed?
  • How long does a class last?
  • What should I wear to the class?

Reviews for El Cajon self defense classes

Recent success stories from people in the El Cajon area.
EFRAIN P.
It feels like been part of a very large family.
Tang Soo Do Karate Institute
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