Best Self-Defense Classes near Columbia, MO

2 of these schools are based in Columbia; the others serve Columbia from Jefferson City (27 mi).

3 open weekends · all 5 rated 4.5+

Data verified October 18, 2026

We are still growing

There are too few quality options within 15 miles, so we have expanded area of coverage to up to 60 miles from you. This includes Columbia and several other cities.
Gracie Barra Columbia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Self Defense

Gracie Barra Columbia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Self Defense

4.9 49 reviews
“The community is great, I've already noticed health benefits, and I am looking forward to learning more.”
Free trial classSince 2020
128 E Nifong Blvd ste e
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Book onlineBook
Gracie Humaitá Columbia Brazilian Jiujitsu

Gracie Humaitá Columbia Brazilian Jiujitsu

5.0 43 reviews
“Whether you want to be a competitor or you just want to learn some techniques that will help you defend yourself and give you peace of mind this is the gym for you.”
Free trial classSince 2011
2010 Chapel Plaza Ct suite b
i
Gracie Barra Jefferson City Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Self Defense

Gracie Barra Jefferson City Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Self Defense

5.0 50 reviews
“This school turns into a family if you're willing to reciprocate the energy they give you.”
Since 2017
Jefferson City, MO · 27 mi from Columbia
i
Jefferson City Judo Club & Jujitsu

Jefferson City Judo Club & Jujitsu

4.7 18 reviews
“Everyone is welcoming and we can't wait to see all that he will learn!”
Since 2018
Jefferson City, MO · 27 mi from Columbia
i
Family Force Martial Arts

Family Force Martial Arts

4.8 5 reviews
“She continues to learn respect and responsibility and has made some really good friends.”
34+ years
Jefferson City, MO · 27 mi from Columbia
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Short self-defense courses listed for Columbia, MO are spread across the 5 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: Columbia, MO

The 5 schools on this page are rated from 4.8 to 5.0 across 274 reviews; 3 have 50 or more reviews. When students and parents rate these schools on specific qualities, they most often praise professionalism (91%), quality (78%) and communication (74%). 3 are open on Saturdays. 2 have ten or more years of experience, the longest 34 years. We have a website on file for all 5 of the schools on this page; all 5 publish a contact page; 4 list a public email and 3 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.

Do the schools on this page travel out to Columbia?

Many do. 2 of the 5 listed here sit in Columbia and the others are within 30 mi, which matters less in this category because the instructor usually comes to your room. Ask about travel before you rule out a school on the address alone.

HomeSelf-Defense CoursesMissouriColumbia, MO

Why these companies made our list

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