Carlson Gracie Team AZ
“After his session, I signed up to be part of the team because I liked the community, felt welcomed, and wanted to continue learning self-defense all while getting a good workout.”
Best Self-Defense Classes in Gilbert, AZ
24 schools listed · 8 in Gilbert · 19 open weekends · 22 rated 4.5+
Data verified October 16, 2026
Next Level Krav Maga & Gracie Humaita BJJ
“I tried Next Level and fell in love with the teaching, the camaraderie of my fellow students, and the constant challenge of moving to the next level.”
Roots Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
“They let white belts roll as well and I'm so glad I didn't unknowingly sign up for a gym that wouldn't let me roll until I was a blue belt (I guess some gyms don't allow white belts to roll)”
Gracie Barra Ocotillo Jiu Jitsu
“Professor Lucas and the team have created a culture around building a family and self confidence around everyone that walks through the doors.”
Gilbert Defense Arts
“Definitely a great place to go to whether you're just starting out or wanting to take it to the next level.”
Gap Fitness Academy
“Gabriel keeps it interesting and it doesn't get boring like doing exercise videos can.”
Short self-defense courses listed for Gilbert, AZ are spread across the 24 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: Gilbert, AZ
8 of the 24 schools we list are based in Gilbert; the other 16 serve Gilbert from towns including Mesa (7 mi), Tempe (12 mi) and Chandler (6 mi). 22 of the schools on this page have a rating, from 4.7 to 5.0 across 2,445 reviews; 20 have 50 or more reviews. When students and parents rate these schools on specific qualities, they most often praise quality (91%), professionalism (88%) and communication (77%). The topics that come up most in reviews of the schools on this page are "atmosphere", "skills" and "confidence". 19 are open on Saturdays and 3 on Sundays. 13 have ten or more years of experience, the longest 24 years. 1 offers a free trial or consultation; 1 is family- or locally-owned and 2 list coupons or special offers. We have a website on file for all 24 of the schools on this page; 19 publish a contact page; 13 list a public email and 13 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 Gilbert?
Many do. 8 of the 24 listed here sit in Gilbert and the others are within 15 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.
Smart Academy UMA
Frame Strong
Evkm Self Defense & Fitness
“I've been here to damn near 3 years now and the level of self-confidence, discipline and inner-peace I've gained from here is unmatched.”
Ares East Mesa BJJ Academy
“If you're looking to start jiu-jitsu give this place a look I highly recommend it.”
Farias Jiu-Jitsu
“Not only will you learn some of the best Jiu Jitsu you will gain an amazing family at the same time.”
Kiko France BJJ (Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu)
“By far the best jiujitsu gym in Az, super clean mats which makes me feel way better plus a great coach who takes time to show the technique.”
First Taekwondo
“The school is clean and very dedicated to children and adults alike.”
Faction Combat Mixed Martial Arts Gym
“I have learned so much since I started combatives classes 3 months ago, and while I have a long way to go, I feel like I get stronger and more confident each and every week.”
East Mesa Karate
“We have also been so impressed with the physical and behavioral skills our son has learned and with all of the fun activities that they plan every month for the kids!”
Gustavo Dantas Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy
“It's been 6 months now when our 7year old son started and he love it and so do we.”
Precision Martial Arts
“The instructors keep the kids super active, and they are learning important life skills- responsibility, courage, perseverance, and respect.”
Spartan Nation Combatives and Fitness
“Luke and Gabby are great coaches and I look forward to every work out they create.”
JAB Fitness
“The workouts are geared to all levels and ages -- and I can only speak for myself, but I have definitely improved my overall strength and health.”
Soul Fighters Headquarters
“It's truly a blessing and not only because of the world class training and great professors but also because they care about the students and their personal, mental and physical growth.”
Phoenix JKD Institute
“My time spent has been the most fulfilling of my life both in martial arts and personal growth.”
Martial Arts Academy of Tang Soo Do Arizona
“She always looks forward to class, has fun with all the instructors, the students are always challenged, and Master Larson always takes extra time when students need help.”
Patriot Martial Arts Academy
“Just like any other sport there are tough moments, but there is nothing more fulfilling than watching a child accomplish something they never thought they could or you, yourself accomplish something you never thought you could reach.”
Boxout
“They also have a great spaced out facility that doesn't feel crammed and your never waiting on equipment.”
Why these companies made our list
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