
Real stories from the Santa Barbara Dojo family across every program and location.
“My son has been training here about six months and his confidence and discipline have grown so much. It's been a really positive martial-arts experience for our family.”
Cung P.
“My 5-year-old has gained so much confidence, listening skills, and focus. The instructors are incredibly patient with the kids. Highly recommend!”
Ellen S.
“Master Garret is so patient with the kids. My children have developed real discipline, self-control, and confidence since starting here.”
Firas J.
“The kindness and personalized approach here is amazing. My kids are learning real self-defense and loving every class.”
Lianna A.
“The staff is amazing. My son started with the two-week trial and we've been hooked ever since.”
Cung P.
“Clean facility and so welcoming. I felt comfortable as a complete beginner from day one.”
Zeena T.
“Absolutely loving Santa Barbara Dojo! The energy is amazing, the classes are challenging and so much fun, and everyone is super welcoming. I've already noticed myself getting stronger and feeling more confident.”
Tagrid D.
“The KUT 6-week challenge was a game-changer for me. I lost 12 pounds and my head feels clearer and calmer than it has in years.”
Christine P.
“KUT 6-week challenge is a 10/10. So much fun and an amazing workout.”
Mirtha J.
“I came back after 20 years away and lost 10 pounds and 3.5 inches in six weeks. The instructors are so encouraging.”
Allyson A.
“The six-week challenge built my stamina, fixed my habits, and taught me real nutrition. The kickboxing is incredible.”
Tatyana V.
“It's way more than boards and takedowns. My 6-year-old has grown so much in self-confidence and life skills here — the instructors genuinely care about who these kids become, not just how they punch.”
Rich G.
“My daughter (8) and I (45) train here twice a week and we love it. Super family friendly, real hapkido, and Master Austin is amazing with the kids. We've found our dojo home.”
Cody W.
“My daughter has been training here for over three years. The growth I've seen in her — not just as a martial artist but as a person — has been incredible. Best decision we made for her.”
Andrew P.
“Master Austin and the entire staff are so patient with my son. They meet the kids where they are and build them up. I'd give this place 10 stars if I could.”
K W.
“My son started the Ninja Class at age 4 and the change in his confidence has been huge. He walks taller and speaks up for himself now. So grateful for this place.”
Miao N.
“My son was really shy when we started, and the instructors and members made him feel so welcome. Watching him come out of his shell on the mat has meant the world to us.”
Citlali G.
“My kids were nervous before their first class, but Master Austin and the staff were so kind and patient. My 3-year-old and my older child both love it here now.”
Regina S.
“Master Garret has been wonderful for my son's self-esteem. The Hapkido program keeps him motivated and focused — his teachers at school have even noticed the difference.”
Amy S.
“Master Garret is incredibly patient and skilled with children. My kids look forward to class every single week. Couldn't recommend the Granada Hills dojo more.”
Giovaughn B.
“We came in for a trial and the Senseis were so respectful with the kids. My child has started showing that same respect at home and at school. It really carries over.”
Justina S.
“Both my girls (3 and 6) train here. Their coordination, listening skills, and attitude at school have all improved so much. The coaches really know how to work with little ones.”
Dara C.
“I've trained here for almost 20 years, and I've been to a lot of schools. This is one of the top places I've ever been. Real respect is taught without being heavy-handed about discipline. It's a special culture.”
Adam L.
“I train in a wheelchair, and they never once treated me like I couldn't do this. The kickboxing and martial arts classes have helped me gain real muscle and confidence. Truly inclusive.”
Annemarie G.
“It's a real family environment here. I've grown so much — physically and mentally — since I started. The people make this place what it is.”
Dee H.
“I started with the KUT program, then took the free month of martial arts, and I was hooked. Training your body and your mind at the same time — there's nothing else like it.”
Karla H.
“The most encouraging fitness experience I've had. The instructors meet you where you are and push you just enough to keep growing. I leave every class feeling better than when I walked in.”
Heidi S.
“I'd never thrown a punch in my life before the 6-week KUT program. The instructors are so motivating and make it fun from day one. Now I'm hooked and actually look forward to working out.”
Haley C.
“The 6-week KUT program has such a family atmosphere — everyone supports each other. I came in not knowing anyone and left with a whole community. Highly recommend.”
Alycia V.
“I'm on week five and the results have been amazing. The instructors are kind and encouraging, never intimidating. I've never stuck with a fitness program this long — and I'm not stopping.”
Iyana B.
“I was brand new to kickboxing when I joined the 6-Week Challenge. Everyone was so welcoming and patient with me. I can't believe how much stronger I feel in such a short time.”
SooKyung H.
“I'm a grandmother and I joined the Fitness Kickboxing program on a whim. My aches and stiffness have improved so much — I feel younger and more capable than I have in years.”
Dorothy A.
“The workouts are empowering and the staff is so friendly. I never feel judged, only supported. This is the first place that's ever made me want to keep showing up.”
Naomi H.
“My first 6-week challenge and I trained 5 times a week because I genuinely wanted to. The energy in these classes is contagious. I'm in the best shape of my life.”
Melanie G.