10th Planet Jiu Jitsu
“The head coach Scott is amazing, loves what he does and really puts time into his student & gym.”
Best Self-Defense Classes in Los Angeles, CA
20 schools listed · all 20 in Los Angeles · 19 open weekends · all 20 rated 4.5+
Data verified October 21, 2026
Beverly Hills Jiu-Jitsu Club
“The contrasting yet complementary styles of Marcus and Sasha, along with the variety in class structure and the wonderful camaraderie among the students, provided a diverse and enriching experience.”
Like Water Jiu Jitsu
“Professor Mauricio Antunes is so knowledgeable (his competition credentials are impressive) and cares to explain things in detail to make sure you understand everything.”
Meraki
“Great jiujitsu school as Professor Jason has thought of all the specifics that you need in a positive BJJ atmosphere.”
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Sparta Academy
“So far, my daughter loves it and it the instructors are very hands on and there's plenty of instructors to children ratio, which is very helpful.”
Rokah Karate
“If you want a place that will teach your children discipline, provide a positive and fun experience, and nurturing your entire child than there's no better place then Rokah Karate.”
Short self-defense courses listed for Los Angeles, CA are spread across the 20 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: Los Angeles, CA
All 20 schools we list here are in Los Angeles itself. We have 43 schools in Los Angeles on file; this page shows the highest-rated 20. The schools on this page are rated from 4.5 to 5.0 across 975 reviews; 8 have 50 or more reviews. When students and parents rate these schools on specific qualities, they most often praise quality (93%), professionalism (90%) and value (70%). The topics that come up most in reviews of the schools on this page are "atmosphere", "skills" and "knowledge". 17 are open on Saturdays and 8 on Sundays. 1 has a BBB rating of A or A+. Domain records put 14 websites of the schools on this page at ten or more years old; the oldest dates from 1997. 1 offers a free trial or consultation and 1 lists coupons or special offers. We have a website on file for all 20 of the schools on this page; 15 publish a contact page; 16 list a public email and 7 take bookings online. We count these figures across the schools on this page; hours and prices change, so confirm the details with the school before you enroll.
Which course providers listed for Los Angeles describe their courses online?
All 20 cards carry a website link. Look for a real outline, who teaches, and who the course is for. Stock photography of a woman throwing a man in a white studio is not an outline, and schools that keep their content vague are often selling the same session to every audience.
Marina Martial Arts
“Mr Pacheco's sparring class is fun and the kids are always learning in the safest way possible.”
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Legacy Jiu-Jitsu West Adams
“I love to train here everyone is nice and cool,i love doing jiu jitsu.”
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Cobrinha Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Fitness
“This camp was unlike any training I've ever experienced and was one of the hardest things I've ever done, but This experience is one that I will forever hold close to my heart for how positive it was.”
Street Sports Jiu-Jitsu
“Even though I currently suck at it, the experience of growth is happening.”
PKG Martial Arts Academy
“This place is fun, welcoming, and great environment for anyone that is interested in learning kickboxing and or jiu jitsu.”
10th Planet Jiu Jitsu Downtown Los Angeles
“This is like family, everyone is super nice and willing to help you if you're struggling.”
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Foxy and Fierce Women's Kickboxing Bootcamp
“I have been taking classes for several years now and have noticed a major improvement with my health - emotionally & physically.”
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Omni Jiu Jitsu Academy
“Coach Nick simply put is amazing, I came into town for a tournament and the welcomed feeling and incredible atmosphere provided was outstanding to say the least.”
Dynamix MMA
“I tried other arts and other gyms, but this is the first place that has made me well rounded and taught techniques that actually work in competition as well as the streets.”
Los Angeles Jiu Jitsu Academy
“If you're looking for a professionally run, clean, friendly, and fun atmosphere to learn BJJ, this is the place.”
Level Up Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Culver City
“They focus on learning through fun, which I think helps build a life-long love of Jiu Jitsu.”
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Waves Jiu Jitsu
“He is authentic, original and genuinely invested in every single student, no matter their experience or skill level.”
Knowles Karate Academy
“Master Michael and his wife are very patient with children but also help discipline children when it is needed.”
Eagle Rock Jiu-Jitsu
“My son (5yr old) has shown increased confidence, increased social skills, discipline, increased attention, increased compassion towards others, and love how honest he is, all thanks to Eagle rock Jiu-Jitsu academy.”
Why these companies made our list
What students and parents say about schools in Los Angeles
- “My son has gained a great deal of confidence and physical self-awareness.” — from a review of Marina Martial Arts
- “Professor Marcus' knowledge of old school jiujitsu and its application to ongoing evolution is simply amazing for both sport and self-defense.” — from a review of Beverly Hills Jiu-Jitsu Club
- “Whether you are looking to exercise, learn self-defense skills or compete at any level, I highly recommend this gym.” — from a review of Dynamix MMA
Excerpts from public reviews of the schools listed on this page.
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