Griffin Judo
“Coaches Adhram and Achraf are outstanding athletes who bring a high level of skill, experience, and professionalism to the mats.”
Best Martial Arts Classes in Berkeley, CA
15 gyms listed · 11 in Berkeley · 14 open weekends · 13 rated 4.5+
Data verified October 21, 2026
Ralph Gracie Berkeley Jiu Jitsu Academy
“There are plenty of upper belts to learn from and several black belt coaches, including two women who teach women's classes.”
Berkeley Cuong Nhu Karate
“Fantastic martial arts dojo with classes for kids, teens and adults.”
Aikido of Berkeley
“The moment you walk in the door, you feel welcome and a positive enenrgy that makes you feel at ease.”
West Wind Schools
“Over the past year my son's personal discipline has improved making him more respectful and responsible.”
Nishi Kaigan Iaido Dojo
“Great place to start or continue study of a traditional martial art that is at the heart of Japanese culture.”
The 15 gyms listed for Berkeley, CA teach martial arts and combat sports. Styles taught, kids' programs and class times come from each gym's own pages, with star ratings from public reviews.
Area overview: Berkeley, CA
11 of the 15 gyms we list are based in Berkeley; the other 4 serve Berkeley from Oakland (7 mi) and Alameda (7 mi). The gyms on this page are rated from 3.0 to 5.0 across 533 reviews; 5 have 50 or more reviews and 13 are rated 4.5 or higher. The topics that come up most in reviews of the gyms on this page are "skills", "atmosphere" and "community". 12 are open on Saturdays and 7 on Sundays. 12 have ten or more years of experience, the longest 32 years. 2 list coupons or special offers. We have a website on file for all 15 of the gyms on this page; 13 publish a contact page; 11 list a public email and 4 take bookings online. We count these figures across the gyms on this page; distances are straight-line, and hours and prices change, so confirm the details with the gym before you enroll.
Why are some gyms here outside Berkeley?
11 of the 15 gyms sit inside Berkeley. The rest come from other towns inside 10 mi, each shown under the city it belongs to. Distance is measured straight-line, so check the route before you plan a class you would drive to twice a week.
Aiki Arts Center
“Nick Walker sensei balances the beautiful formality of Aikido with practicality, so that you really understand how and why the pieces of a technique fit together.”
Casa de Cultura at the Capoeira Arts Foundation Building
“Doesn't matter whether you have previous experience in martial arts or never been to gym at all - you can always start your journey to capoeira.”
Berkeley Capoeira
“She loves the class and has an opportunity to learn music, defense and some coool gymnastics!”
Pitt's Martial Arts Academy
“My youngest has been going here and has become more confident as a result!”
Studio 12
Mixed Martial Arts Bravo Zulu
“I truly never thought I'd be an mma mom, but the mental, physical, and emotional maturity I've seen develop in my three very different children has been really incredible.”
Han Martial Arts
“On top of that, the training has given them both body awareness that they did not have, and confidence in body and mind.”
Alameda Aikikai
“I always learn a lot when I come here and leave feeling more energized and motivated than when I entered”
Oakland Kickboxing
“I trained with him 1 on 1 in kickboxing for a number of years and couldn't imagine learning from anyone else.”
Why these companies made our list
What students and parents say about gyms in and near Berkeley
- “I highly recommend this dojo to anyone looking to grow in judo or to experience top-level training in a positive and professional environment.” — from a review of Griffin Judo
- “Being a white belt, and new to the game, I’ve never felt more comfortable in doing something so challenging.” — from a review of Ralph Gracie Berkeley Jiu Jitsu Academy
- “My son has gained so much confidence, discipline, and respect while having fun.” — from a review of Han Martial Arts
- “The dojo is very beginner friendly and the instructors are knowledgeable and patient.” — from a review of Alameda Aikikai
- “I have seen tremendous physical growth and confidence, but also mental discipline.” — from a review of Mixed Martial Arts Bravo Zulu
Excerpts from public reviews of the gyms listed on this page.
Is this page useful? Yes
No
Is there anything wrong with this page?
Martial Arts Classes near Berkeley
Popular in Berkeley
, CAGuides: Martial Arts Classes
Are Extracurricular Activities Tax Deductible? (2026)
Extracurricular Activities for an Autistic Child
How Long to Get a Black Belt? What the Rules Actually Say
How Many Extracurricular Activities Is Too Many for Kids?
How Much Do Martial Arts Classes Cost? Monthly Fees + Year One
Should I Let My Child Quit? A Parent's Decision Guide