Modern Martial Arts
“I love this karate studio the teachers and the kids are all nice 👍 I would definitely suggest this karate studio”
Best Self-Defense Classes in New York, NY
21 schools listed · all 21 in New York · 20 open weekends · all 21 rated 4.5+
Data verified October 21, 2026
Fabulous & Fearless
“Christina is a master at communicating the essentials that everyone needs to stay safe in this crazy world.”
SD Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu NYC
“Definitely drop in if you're visiting from out of town for instruction focused on technique and precision followed by challenging yet fun rolls.”
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Paxibellum Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu NYC
“Definitely recommend Paxibellum to anyone thinking about trying jiu-jitsu, whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience.”
Renzo Gracie Academy
“I will admit these guys are tough rolls but that's what you want if you want to get better.”
International Martial Arts Center
“I have gained confidence, discipline and these classes keep me in good shape too!”
Short self-defense courses listed for New York, NY are spread across the 21 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: New York, NY
All 21 schools we list here are in New York itself. We have 35 schools in New York on file; this page shows the highest-rated 21. The schools on this page are rated from 4.7 to 5.0 across 2,924 reviews; 20 have 50 or more reviews. The topics that come up most in reviews of the schools on this page are "skills", "atmosphere" and "community". 20 are open on Saturdays and 13 on Sundays. 11 have ten or more years of experience, the longest 58 years. 1 is family- or locally-owned and 3 list coupons or special offers. We have a website on file for all 21 of the schools on this page; 17 publish a contact page; 18 list a public email and 8 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.
How do I get a course outline from schools listed for New York?
By email, and 18 of the 21 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.
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Fabio Clemente Studiox BJJ
“It's a gym where you can start as a beginner and truly develop your jiu jitsu in a supportive environment.”
JKD NYC
“If you are looking to learn mixed martial arts from a top-notch instructor, develop important self-defense skills and get in shape, this is the place for you.”
Range Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu NYC
“I would highly recommend anyone to come check them out and know you will come away with the same experience.”
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HOT FIT NYC
“Great atmosphere and a lot of equipment for various type of training.”
Ronin Athletics MMA NYC
“Everything about it is wonderful if you're not sure which place to sign up to don't think twice just come here sign up and you'll never look back thank you All so much”
Dan Covel Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
“I appreciate the no nonsense approach to training, focused on learning, improvement, and respect.”
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Workshop NYC Muay Thai & Jiujitsu
“I'm currently dealing with an injury right now and he has gone out his way to make accommodations for me so I can continue my training without making me feel like I'm just on the sidelines.”
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Krav Maga Experts
“I feel better knowing that I'm doing what I can to learn how to protect myself.”
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Next Evolution Martial Arts & Kioto BJJ
“I've trained at a few other gyms and it is rare to see coaches take the time to make sure the students really have learned all the techniques.”
FIT HIT
“This place is spacious, clean, has great equipment and and an awesome team.”
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Renzo Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Upper West Side
“The professors are all incredibly great teachers, and the community is fantastic, even for new people trying to learn.”
Radical MMA NYC
“Coach Dreifuss is extremely knowledgeable, and every class is packed with useful information and real training.”
Kokushi Budo Institute
“I highly recommend it for anyone looking to improve their judo—whether you're a beginner or aiming to compete.”
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Unity Jiu Jitsu School
“Awesome place to train, from hobbyist to aspiring full time athletes, this gym has classes for both.”
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10th Planet NYC No-Gi Jiu Jitsu
“The level of instruction is extremely high and everyone is really welcoming.”
Why these companies made our list
What students and parents say about schools in New York
- “I would highly recommend this place to anyone who wants to learn real self-defense, regardless of skill level, in a friendly, professional environment.” — from a review of JKD NYC
- “The coaches are very welcoming and accommodate all skills levels from absolute beginners to advanced practitioners, while still maintaining a focus on self-defense.” — from a review of Ronin Athletics MMA NYC
- “Whether you enter Christina's workshop as a novice or have prior knowledge about self-defense, she will make the lessons engaging and memorable.” — from a review of Fabulous & Fearless
- “If you want to seriously improve your understanding of practical self-defense, I highly recommend training here.” — from a review of Radical MMA NYC
- “Even I didn't expect to see such an increase of confidence, awareness, stamina, and even calmness in myself when I first began.” — from a review of JKD NYC
Excerpts from public reviews of the schools listed on this page.
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