Eastern Ways Martial Arts
“There are 1 on 1 classes and a good mix of group classes allowing for flexibility in interests and scheduling.”
Best Self-Defense Classes in Sacramento, CA
15 schools listed · 10 in Sacramento · 11 open weekends · 13 rated 4.5+
Data verified October 18, 2026
Capitol Jiu Jitsu
“The class structure is straightforward and allows for steady and thorough learning of fundamentals, which I think is important for new players and more experienced practitioners looking for more controlled and intentional training environments”
Cassio Werneck Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
“If you're in the Sacramento area and looking for authentic, world class Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for yourself or your children, this is the place.”
Sacramento Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy
“The group was very welcoming to me as a newcomer, and the instruction is absolutely world class!”
Sacramento Jiu Jitsu Team Maxwell
“The gym is so much more than a place to train, it's a second home where Professor Maxwell creates an incredibly fun and welcoming vibe for everyone.”
Natomas Academy
“The growth we've seen in our children physically and mentally and even ourselves as parents is worth the investment!”
Short self-defense courses listed for Sacramento, CA 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: Sacramento, CA
10 of the 15 schools we list are based in Sacramento; the other 5 serve Sacramento from Carmichael (9 mi) and Elk Grove (11 mi). The schools on this page are rated from 4.0 to 5.0 across 883 reviews; 6 have 50 or more reviews and 13 are rated 4.5 or higher. 9 are open on Saturdays and 6 on Sundays. 10 have ten or more years of experience, the longest 78 years. 1 is family- or locally-owned and 1 lists coupons or special offers. We have a website on file for all 15 of the schools on this page; 11 publish a contact page; 8 list a public email and 4 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 Sacramento?
Many do. 10 of the 15 listed here sit in Sacramento 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.
Team Andre Cia Paulista Sacramento
“The kids are having fun and learning about themselves and the sport.”
Maxwell Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
“Top-tier coaching, zero ego on the mats, and a super clean facility.”
Moore's Martial Arts of Sacramento
“I signed him up not just for the physical benefits, but so he could work on focus, resilience, and discipline.”
Way of the Beast
“Over the last two years, I have been able to uncover and shed trauma, I have more control over myself and my surroundings, and am able to navigate the world with confidence without negotiating for my safety.”
Kang Taekwondo
“Master Kang and his senior students provide a variety of activities throughout the class, they are patient, upbeat and make each class enjoyable while honing in on improving each of the kids skills.”
Waza Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
“The instructors create a positive, respectful environment where beginners and advanced students can all learn together.”
Quinn's Gym
“She encourages me and I am very comfortable that at almost 72 years old I won't get hurt.”
Fair Oaks Family Taekwondo
“We are so thankful for Master Kropp taking her under his wing and helping her achieve her 3rd degree black belt and instructor certification.”
Reid's Martial Arts
“The instructors are patient and thorough and don't mind repeating instructions often.”
Why these companies made our list
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