Zahand's Martial Arts
“The teachers are fantastic and the way they teach is understandable for all ages.”
Best Self-Defense Classes in Akron, OH
13 schools listed · 4 in Akron · 12 open weekends · all 13 rated 4.5+
Data verified October 18, 2026
The Academy of Self-Defense
“My child is homeschooled & this is a good safe way to socialize your children plus get them to learn how to defend themselves in life if ever needed.”
Street Protect Principle Self Defense
“I appreciate Al Petrosino following up with me for my family and providing outstanding training to aid in protecting our young one.”
Mountain Oak Dojo
“Best instruction for Adults and Children.”
Hickey Karate Center
“I go to Hickey's, and I LOVE it.”
Krav Maga Self Defense at Asian Sun Hudson
Short self-defense courses listed for Akron, OH are spread across the 13 cards on this page. Who each course is aimed at, where it runs and how often it repeats comes from the school itself, with ratings drawn from public reviews.
Area overview: Akron, OH
4 of the 13 schools we list are based in Akron; the other 9 serve Akron from towns including Cuyahoga Falls (5 mi), Fairlawn (5 mi) and Tallmadge (5 mi). The schools on this page are rated from 4.8 to 5.0 across 556 reviews; 3 have 50 or more reviews. 11 are open on Saturdays and 2 on Sundays. 3 have a BBB rating of A or A+. 10 have ten or more years of experience, the longest 54 years. 1 is family- or locally-owned and 3 list coupons or special offers. We have a website on file for all 13 of the schools on this page; 12 publish a contact page; 9 list a public email and 2 take bookings online. We count these figures across the schools on this page; distances are straight-line, and hours and prices change, so confirm the details with the school before you enroll.
How do I get a course outline from schools listed for Akron?
By email, and 9 of the 13 schools here publish an address. Write with the group you have in mind, the room you can offer and what worries the group, then ask for a plan of the session. A school that replies with a price and nothing else has told you something.
True Art Jiu Jitsu
“Shannon's expertise, knowledge, and general welcoming culture makes True Art a must destination for anyone that trains BJJ!”
GT Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy
“Gregg and Todd always chose an experienced partner that would work with me to make sure I was learning in a safe environment.”
Team Kriebel Ohio Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy
“This is a gym run by black belts who teach the art of BJJ - they aren't just a gym that throws you on the mat and tells you to "fight it out.”
Marcum's Martial Art Academy
“Practice is a good mix of fun and disciplined activities.”
Cuyahoga Karate Isshinryu Dojo
“Melissa is the best sensi in the world, she doesn't only teach the students Karate, she teaches them how to be better people.”
Waterhouse Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy
“By far the best Place to train BJJ at in Ohio.”
Center For Body-Mind Harmony
“Wonderful opportunity to grow in your martial arts journey!”
Why these companies made our list
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