Capital Karate
“It's more than the physical aspect of karate but their concept builds true character, confidence, and his improving behavior!!!”
Best Martial Arts Classes in Columbia, SC
15 gyms listed · 13 in Columbia · 1 open 24/7 · 7 open weekends · 14 rated 4.5+
Data verified November 6, 2026
Spartan Academy Mixed Martial Arts
“When you think you can't go anymore, Guybson pushes you, and soon you will be far beyond your previous limits”
Legacy Martial Arts
“The coaches are awesome and you can tell they really care about the kids.”
The Karate Dojo
“They under and believe in their mission and do a great job working with kids!”
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Deep Waters Jiu Jitsu
“They could not have been nicer and the instruction was practical, detailed and concise.”
Lycan Mixed Martial Arts
“I can say that if you're in the area and looking for a spot; I would make it a point to stop in and check out what these guys and girls are doing!”
The 15 gyms listed for Columbia, SC 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: Columbia, SC
13 of the 15 gyms we list are based in Columbia; the other 2 serve Columbia from Cayce (11 mi) and West Columbia (11 mi). The gyms on this page are rated from 4.3 to 5.0 across 1,753 reviews; 7 have 50 or more reviews and 14 are rated 4.5 or higher. The topics that come up most in reviews of the gyms on this page are "atmosphere" and "skills". 1 is open around the clock; 7 are open on Saturdays and 2 on Sundays. 1 has a BBB rating of A or A+. Domain records put 4 websites of the gyms on this page at ten or more years old; the oldest dates from 2002. We have a website on file for 13 of the gyms on this page; 10 publish a contact page; 10 list a public email and 3 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.
Are weekend martial arts classes listed for Columbia?
7 of the 15 gyms put weekend times on the listing. Saturday morning is usually junior classes and an open mat for anyone who wants extra rounds; Sunday is rarer. If your shifts move, ask whether a weekday class you miss can be made up on the weekend.
Balance Martial Arts
“My daughter and I started at the sametime, and the growth we have had in the last 1 year has been truly amazing.”
Tiger Rock Martial Arts Of Columbia
“There is an opportunity to participate in competitions which basically prepare your kids to compete.”
Seidokan Aikido of South Carolina
“Training with one of the Best Professor Wedell teaching these Fine Points of Aikido contourning Power and Physical effort worth much more than that ; People training with Professor Wedell are Very Lucky indeed .”
Wing Chun
“His instruction is priceless and informative.”
Wellwithin Martial Arts
“I love that my husband and I are also able to participate and become confident in our skills, coming into a dojang for the first time in our mid thirties.”
Yim's Tiger Tae Kwon Do Academy
“He takes time to get to know his students, pushes them to do their best, & is always encouraging.”
Allbritton Martial Arts Academy
“My daughter has grown so much coming here.”
M. C. Kim's Taekwondo USA
“My grandson, 5 years old, is learning coordination, respect for others, hard work and responsibility to name a few things.”
TNT Martial Arts & Fitness
“I enjoy watching the kids interact with one another while learning self defense skills.”
Why these companies made our list
What students and parents say about gyms in Columbia
- “For families in the area, I highly recommend this gym and the way it builds focus, confidence and discipline for kids!” — from a review of Capital Karate
- “As amazing as the training is, as important to me is the confidence, discipline, and work ethic they learn from training here.” — from a review of Spartan Academy Mixed Martial Arts
- “The Seidokan Aikido of South Carolina dojo has some of the most patient, kind, and dedicated people I've known.” — from a review of Seidokan Aikido of South Carolina
- “Nader is a very knowledgeable black belt, and their gym has a great sense of community.” — from a review of Lycan Mixed Martial Arts
- “Legacy Martial Art is excellent! The instructors are highly skilled and knowledgeable, providing top-notch training in a variety of disciplines.” — from a review of Legacy Martial Arts
Excerpts from public reviews of the gyms listed on this page.
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