The Jiu Jitsu Company
“Everybody was so nice the coaching was incredible and I learned a lot in the short time I was there.”
Best Self-Defense Classes near Lower Merion, PA
These schools serve Lower Merion from nearby bases in towns including Philadelphia, Paoli and Lansdowne.
15 schools listed · all 15 open weekends · all 15 rated 4.5+
Data verified October 26, 2026
Water and Rock Studio
“I recommend Water and Rock kids 95 hour YOGA training to anyone who is interested in kids YOGA, Moms, teachers, Therapist all is welcomed!”
Balance Studios: Gracie Jiu-Jitsu & Muay Thai
“Definitely recommend this gym for anyone looking to get into BJJ or Muay Thai!!”
Philadelphia Jiu-Jitsu
“As a newcomer to martial arts, Damon's classes made me feel comfortable; smaller sizes allowed me to get clear/consistent feedback, while an overarching emphasis on safety allowed me to practice comfortably and without the fear of anyone running me over.”
East Montgomery Martial Arts Academy LLC
“They offer so many opportunities for the kids and the instructors are extremely kind and knowledgeable.”
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Shorty's Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
“Really hard to overstate how great the environment is at Shorty's, everyone is super welcoming and supportive which really helps soften the difficulty of learning a new thing.”
Short self-defense courses listed for Lower Merion, PA are spread across the 15 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: Lower Merion, PA
The 15 schools on this page are rated from 4.6 to 5.0 across 1,926 reviews; all 15 have 50 or more reviews. The topics that come up most in reviews of the schools on this page are "atmosphere", "confidence" and "community". All 15 are open on Saturdays and 10 on Sundays. 1 has a BBB rating of A or A+. Domain records put 8 websites of the schools on this page at ten or more years old; the oldest dates from 2002. 2 are family- or locally-owned and 3 list coupons or special offers. We have a website on file for all 15 of the schools on this page; 11 publish a contact page; 13 list a public email and 5 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 Lower Merion describe their courses online?
All 15 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.
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Daniel Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
“Wether you are looking for Self Defense, A great workout, a healthy lifestyle or you want to compete in BJJ or MMA, Daniel Gracie Is an amazing Teacher, Coach and Mentor”
Commando Krav Maga and Diamond Mixed Martial Arts
“Perfect for those just getting started as well as those that have years of experience.”
Purenergy Studio
“The yoga studio is one of the most beautiful studios around.”
Santiago Jiu Jitsu
“Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, everyone is treated with respect, creating a supportive community that encourages each student to reach their full potential”
Ataraxis Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Self Defense
“I now try to attend class everyday not only for the great coaching but to interact with the people who I have met.”
Martinez BJJ Fitness Center
“They have a huge wealth of knowledge and passion for martial arts.”
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Onyx Combat Sports
“The instructors are great and obviously know what they're talking about and take the time to make sure the students "get it" Every class is a great workout too.”
Daniel Pope Karate
“I had the privilege of working with Sensei Pope and received a great deal of knowledge in the process.”
The Vault Jiu Jitsu
“Definitely recommend if youre in the philly/delco area.”
Why these companies made our list
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