Precision Boxing & Mixed Martial Arts
“They truly care about everyone on an individual basis, the quality of technique instruction is amazing, and everyone is highly supportive of each other.”
Best Self-Defense Classes near Poughkeepsie, NY
1 of these schools is based in Poughkeepsie; the others serve Poughkeepsie from towns including Kingston (17 mi), New Paltz (8 mi) and Wappingers Falls (8 mi).
all 10 open weekends · all 10 rated 4.5+
Data verified October 18, 2026
Gambit Submission Fighting
“I dropped in at this gym while I was in New Paltz and had an absolutely great time.”
Anthony Quatrochi's Martial Arts Institute
“He is learning about discipline, patience, self defense, dedication, kindness, and character development.”
Grail Jiu Jitsu
“I really appreciate how the instructors make everything fun and age-appropriate, and there's such a great balance between learning, movement, creativity, and socializing”
Defense Training System LLC (Security Guard Training)
“Patient and well informed answer's my non-stop questions and clearly guided me through the program.”
Han Ho Martial Arts & Secret Weapon MMA
“The coaching is awesome, The gym is very clean and it is an great place to train all around.”
Short self-defense courses listed for Poughkeepsie, NY are spread across the 10 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: Poughkeepsie, NY
The 10 schools on this page are rated from 4.8 to 5.0 across 888 reviews; 6 have 50 or more reviews. The topics that come up most in reviews of the schools on this page are "atmosphere", "knowledge" and "confidence". All 10 are open on Saturdays and 7 on Sundays. 4 have ten or more years of experience, the longest 36 years. 2 list coupons or special offers. We have a website on file for all 10 of the schools on this page; all 10 publish a contact page; 8 list a public email and 6 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.
How do I get a course outline from schools listed for Poughkeepsie?
By email, and 8 of the 10 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.
Fit Body Solutions Bad Mikey's
“Personal attention given and nice small classes I'm a long time member and find the staff engaging and members friendly.”
Ascended Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Yoga
“My son has autism and these people every one of them were all very good with him especially Pedro!”
Midtown Jiu Jitsu
“Our 7 year old is learning, growing stronger and more confident with every session.”
Iron Guard BJJ & Kung Fu
“Incredible instructors for both kids and adults and just an overwhelming positive environment both on and off the mats!”
Why these companies made our list
What students and parents say about schools near Poughkeepsie
- “The instructors are fantastic with kids—patient, knowledgeable, and incredibly skilled at keeping them engaged while teaching discipline, confidence, and self-defense.” — from a review of Grail Jiu Jitsu
- “Amazing coaches and friendly spaces, and not intimidating, I can't wait to return for more self-defense and knowledge from this amazing gym!” — from a review of Ascended Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Yoga
- “The instructors work on self control, self confidence, situational awareness, and respect with the students, just to name a few.” — from a review of Anthony Quatrochi's Martial Arts Institute
- “Grail offers something more than just exercise. They offer confidence and self awareness.” — from a review of Grail Jiu Jitsu
- “The incorporation of yoga has been an unexpected bonus, improving flexibility, focus, and overall body awareness.” — from a review of Ascended Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Yoga
Excerpts from public reviews of the schools listed on this page.
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