10th Planet Jiu Jitsu San Mateo
“All of training partners were super respectful and fun to train with.”
Best Self-Defense Classes in San Francisco, CA
14 schools listed · 10 in San Francisco · 13 open weekends · 13 rated 4.5+
Data verified October 16, 2026
AB Mixed Martial Arts Academy
“My kids have been coming for 4years and I was inspired to join.”
Evolve Training Center
“Their staff is welcoming professional and knowledgeable in their approach to teaching.”
Colhado Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy
“Everyone is considered fam, the classes and techniques are lit, and they don't hold you if your game is cooked.”
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Romulo Melo Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
“Dropped by Rómulo's while visiting San Francisco and it was one of the best academies I have ever trained at.”
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Ralph Gracie Jiu Jitsu
“Professor Rhalan is extremely dedicated in ensuring each and every one of his students gain the knowledge and step by step detail of the class.”
Short self-defense courses listed for San Francisco, CA are spread across the 14 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: San Francisco, CA
10 of the 14 schools we list are based in San Francisco; the other 4 serve San Francisco from South San Francisco (7 mi), El Cerrito (13 mi) and San Mateo (16 mi). The schools on this page are rated from 4.4 to 5.0 across 1,026 reviews; 7 have 50 or more reviews and 13 are rated 4.5 or higher. The topics that come up most in reviews of the schools on this page are "atmosphere", "skills" and "community". 12 are open on Saturdays and 3 on Sundays. 2 have a BBB rating of A or A+. 9 have ten or more years of experience, the longest 45 years. 1 is family- or locally-owned and 1 lists coupons or special offers. We have a website on file for all 14 of the schools on this page; 11 publish a contact page; 12 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.
How do I get a course outline from schools listed for San Francisco?
By email, and 12 of the 14 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.
Empire Jiu Jitsu
“Started by going to a trial basics class a few months ago and I've continued going ever since.”
Alliance BJJ SF Bay
“My 11 year joined Alliance SF last year and in just 6 months he has not only learned a ton of Jiujitsu techniques but what I'm even more impressed by is how confident he has become.”
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Bay Jiu-Jitsu
“Teacher is really good at explaining, allows everyone to work at their own pace and super encouraging!”
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Charles Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy
“He has a great balance of asking kids to be respectful and expecting their best but is also incredibly encouraging as they learn different skills.”
Peace of Mind
“His unique martial arts style is practical and effective and has helped me bring my mind and body together, give me confidence and even mobility I thought I lost.”
Bill Grossman's School of Kenpo Karate
“If you or your child wants to feel accepted and part of something this is the place.”
Quantum Martial Arts
“I've been a student here for 10 months now, and I've been challenged mentally and physically in ways that are totally new to me, but have felt incredibly safe the entire time.”
El Cerrito Martial Arts
“The staff creates a nice mix of structure, fun, and positive values.”
Why these companies made our list
What students and parents say about schools in and near San Francisco
- “The gym offers structured children's classes that provide a fun and safe environment for kids to build confidence, discipline, and self-defense skills.” — from a review of Colhado Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy
- “Whether you’re looking to compete, get in shape, learn self-defense, or build confidence, this is a great place for all ages.” — from a review of AB Mixed Martial Arts Academy
- “I highly recommend Evolve Training Center to any parent looking for a place where their child can build confidence, learn practical self-defense, and be part of a positive community.” — from a review of Evolve Training Center
Excerpts from public reviews of the schools listed on this page.
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