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Defiance Jiu Jitsu
- Journey
- Community
- Mats
“I also thuroughly enjoy that we train in various disciplines of grappling, such as wrestling and judo when working takedowns, alongside traditional groundwork found in BJJ.”
Best Self-Defense Classes in Tacoma, WA
24 schools listed · 6 in Tacoma · 22 open weekends · 21 rated 4.5+
Data verified October 16, 2026
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Wave Combat Sports
“Coach Micah's an expert instructor and his curriculum is sure to get you where you want to be whether you're a beginner or a competitive athlete in Muay Thai, grappling or MMA.”
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Conquest Self Defense
- Patience
- Blessing
- Spiritual
“Opens with Bible based inspiration from a perspective of salvation through the saving grace of Jesus Christ, Love of the Father, and inspiration of the Holy Spirit.”
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Amerindo Self-Defense Systems
- Silat
“He is passionate about the martial arts in general and most importantly about preserving the Art of Pentjak Silat, specifically in the form that is taught by our Oom Guru Besar Jim Ingram - Amerindo Self Defense.”
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Seibukan Jujutsu of Washington
“Many of the dojos I've attended have either provided lessons with no structure or never varied from a single lesson plan, but Shihan Sauders always has something new to focus on and it keeps the same material interesting.”
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Self Defense Tacoma
“I did take the 4-hour class with 2 friends, but the instructors did a great job of mixing up pairings so you end up practicing with everyone in the class.”
Short self-defense courses listed for Tacoma, WA are spread across the 24 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: Tacoma, WA
6 of the 24 schools we list are based in Tacoma; the other 18 serve Tacoma from towns including Seattle (27 mi), Kirkland (33 mi) and University Place (4 mi). 22 of the schools on this page have a rating, from 4.0 to 5.0 across 898 reviews; 9 have 50 or more reviews and 21 are rated 4.5 or higher. When students and parents rate these schools on specific qualities, they most often praise professionalism (95%), communication (85%) and quality (85%). The topics that come up most in reviews of the schools on this page are "atmosphere", "community" and "skills". 21 are open on Saturdays and 7 on Sundays. 1 has a BBB rating of A or A+. 12 have ten or more years of experience, the longest 52 years. 1 is family- or locally-owned and 2 list coupons or special offers. We have a website on file for all 24 of the schools on this page; 18 publish a contact page; 19 list a public email and 5 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 Tacoma?
Many do. 6 of the 24 listed here sit in Tacoma and the others are within 40 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.
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Gracie Barra Tacoma
- Team
- Classes
- Environment
“The warm atmosphere created by the friendly staff, professors, and fellow students fosters a sense of camaraderie that enhances the learning experience.”
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Certified Martial Arts
- To Learn
- Adults
- Athletes
“We really appreciate everyone there and highly recommend Certified Martial Arts to anyone that is interested in starting Jiu Jitsu for the first time or to the highest competitor, you'll get something out of your time and efforts here!”
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Vital Jiu Jitsu
- Sparring
- MMA
- Kickboxing
“Everyone is friendly and accommodating, and the training environment is relaxed and very conducive to learning, whether you're training to compete or as a hobby.”
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Atos Tacoma
- Practice
- Belts
- Knit
“If you're newer to jiu jitsu or looking for a good environment where you can get some good looks, but not have anyone try and blow your knee up, I would recommend this place.”
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Freedom Martial Arts Academy
- Skills
- Life
- Adults
“As for children/ adolesent classes and/or getting your feet wet for the first foray into a martial arts program, I am confident this school will fit the bill and give a starting point to further exploration if so desired.”
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Demile Martial Arts
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Nova Self Defense
- Course
“The movements are easy to learn, especially with their trainers who are great at providing positive feedback and guidance to help you improve your techniques.”
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Success Martial Arts
“Im a black belt and testing for 2nd degree in about 3 months and I have to say, try and talk to your instructors for more advice if you really want to get into the martial art.”
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Seattle Jiu-Jitsu Academy
- Atmosphere
- Belt
- Traveling
“I stayed and have been a member for a few years now and am grateful to know that there will never be a shortage of challenging training partners at SJJA.”
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Mercer Island Martial Arts
“They work hard to make sure that every student performs at their highest level and they teach valuable lessons that can used in all areas of their lives, not just Tae Kwon Do.”
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Rebellion Jiu-Jitsu
- Space
- Fitness
- Community
“If you're looking for a gym that strives for inclusivity, strives to make a better YOU, and takes the time to get to know you on a personal level then a standard commercial gym that only checks on you for their own profit then this is the gym for you...”
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Quantum Martial Arts
- Flexibility
- Punches
- Period
“Whether it is with Alison leading class with her heartwarming smile and showing immense passion for the kids' classes, "Princess" Tony's jubilant humor and playfulness during warm ups and drills, Gitai's thoroughness and extensive knowledge when lead...”
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Feminist Karate Union
“Fantastic dojo building great community.”
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Kim's Tae Kwon Do Rainier Valley
“Very hospitable, the lady on the phone is really nice!”
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White Dragon Kung Fu Seattle
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Miller's Martial Arts Academy
“It was an easy decision because Millers' focuses on what's important at a young age: the non-physical virtues of martial arts like discipline, respect, integrity, persistence etc....”
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Oom Yung Doe
“It encompasses everything I'm looking for in martial arts training, and I'm continuously amazed by how much I have gained for my mind, body, and spirit.”
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Gracie Barra Kirkland
- Atmosphere
- Jiu Jitsu
- People
“This place is truly remarkable and the community that grows from the relationships is my favorite part… If you ever wanted to try BJJ, this is the place to do it!”
Self-Defense Training Services in Tacoma, WA Cost Estimates
Minimum cost
$184
Maximum cost
$550
National Average
$281
Avg Per Hour Rates
$74
$245
$379
Fair price range is based on 443 cost profiles
Why these companies made our list
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