Armada Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Winter Park
“When I called ahead of time Darren was so kind and friendly I actually changed my mind and came to Armada instead of the other place I was originally going.”
Best Self-Defense Classes near Winter Park, FL
2 of these schools are based in Winter Park; the others serve Winter Park from towns including Orlando (8 mi), Ocoee (13 mi) and Winter Garden (16 mi).
21 open weekends · 22 rated 4.5+
Data verified October 21, 2026
Elementum Jiu-Jitsu
“As a woman, I feel safe and comfortable every time I step on the mats, as Tarsis and Martina have seamlessly drawn a remarkably friendly clientele, not to mention there are typically numerous other women to train with.”
Sanity JIU Jitsu
“I will definitely make this a must visit whenever I'm in town and definitely recommend this place to anyone who is looking for chill environment and great instructor's.”
The Zen Life Center
“The Zen-life center embodies the five philosophy of Tae Kwon Do: Perseverance, Self-control, inimitable spirit, courtesy, integrity, which have contributed to the success of there students.”
Carlson Gracie Central Florida
“All the students are super cool and welcoming, so if you are traveling and you want a place to roll to keep your game on point while on business or vacation then you should stop by.”
The Jungle MMA and Fitness
“There's been moments where I've had to stop coming so consistently but when I return they always remember me, I don't think I'd rather train anywhere else”
Short self-defense courses listed for Winter Park, FL 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: Winter Park, FL
The 24 schools on this page are rated from 4.4 to 5.0 across 1,989 reviews; 14 have 50 or more reviews and 22 are rated 4.5 or higher. When students and parents rate these schools on specific qualities, they most often praise professionalism (97%), quality (95%) and communication (83%). The topics that come up most in reviews of the schools on this page are "skills", "atmosphere" and "confidence". 21 are open on Saturdays and 1 on Sundays. 2 have a BBB rating of A or A+. Domain records put 11 websites of the schools on this page at ten or more years old; the oldest dates from 2008. 3 list coupons or special offers. We have a website on file for all 24 of the schools on this page; 20 publish a contact page; 12 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.
Do the schools on this page travel out to Winter Park?
Many do. 2 of the 24 listed here sit in Winter Park and the others are within 30 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.
Martial Arts World Orlando
“However, I don't feel it is sufficient enough to make up on the days we actually could not come and also, suggesting that we would end the contract and not renew”
Gracie Barra Orlando
“Over 30 minutes of one-on-one practice doing actual grappling with the experience and knowledge that you have to get used to escaping different holds from different members.”
Frbjj Lake Nona
“I will continue with FRBJJ Lake Nona long after my son is away in the military as I too have found a strong sense of belonging and an eager determination to learn more and get better.”
Martial Arts Nation Lake Nona BJJ
“In their classroom they learn, but is also a space where their student's dreams are nurtured, curiosity is ignited, and minds are shaped for a brighter future!”
Fabin Rosa Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Academy
“It wasn't uncommon to have multiple black belts on the mats with the kids that come here to train from all over the country and all over the world for Pans.”
Alliance Jiu Jitsu
“I was considering another bigger gym with a lot of extras but when I came for the free trial class here I realized I would get the instruction and attention I needed.”
Jacare Martial Arts
“If you have a child that practices/wants to practice/compete jiujitsu and are able to commute here then I highly recommend you not waste your time anywhere else.”
Guto Campos Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
“I started training with Guto 5 years ago, having over 6 years of jiu-jitsu, the time I spent with him helped me improve technically and psychologically.”
Carlson Gracie Orlando
“I been practicing Jiu Jitsu for over 25 years and The reason why i love and recommend this School is because the owner is an amazing person, athlete and professor !”
Krav Maga O-Town Orlando
“We learned how to protect ourselves and avoid situations where we might panic and make ourselves vulnerable, especially when we are out and about and under the influence of alcohol.”
Mudita Jiu Jitsu
“Needed a place to train as I had a few days in between for Pan Ams and reached out to Brandon, as he was close to my hotel, a week prior and welcomed me in.”
Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Altamonte Springs
“I am a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black Belt and have been training and/or instructing for the past 20 years and can honestly say this is the most professional and friendly facility that I have ever been in.”
Elite Krav Maga
“Everything was properly explained and demonstrated, all my questions were answered, the instructors were awesome, and costs for classes are affordable!”
Nelumbo Jiu-Jitsu Casa Branca Academy
“I have trained at this gym for 3 years and have never had a bad experience, they will take you at any stage and personally fit your training to you to have you fighting for in no time.”
Carlson Gracie Orlando North
“Before starting at Cogito/Carlson Gracie Orlando North I had been training various martial on an off for 16 years and I've haven't seen better instructors.”
Black Belts For Christ
“He has learned how to fight standing up and on the ground due to Sensei Joe, Sensei Martha, & Sensei Isabella (along with the other senseis when he was at OCP).”
Central Florida BJJ
“Professor Alex is an amazing instructor his teaching style allows you to retain the information while staying safe.”
Grappling Mastery: BJJ & Muay Thai Academy
“Dropped in while visiting from New York very friendly and welcoming environment great group of people highly recommended coaches were great and really took the time to help with my questions will definitely visit again”
Why these companies made our list
What students and parents say about schools near Winter Park
- “Sanity is the place to be if you are looking to build your confidence through jiu jitsu and self-defence, meet fitness goals, and have a great time!” — from a review of Sanity JIU Jitsu
- “This newfound self-assurance is a direct result of the school's nurturing environment and skilled instructors who prioritize teaching practical self-defense techniques in a safe and supportive atmosphere.” — from a review of Carlson Gracie Orlando
- “Highly recommend this studio! Will teaches practical self-defense with careful attention to stance and incredible patience.” — from a review of Elite Krav Maga
- “Wonderful, very family-friendly environment, my children love practicing jiu jitsu, learning about respect and self-defense!” — from a review of Jacare Martial Arts
- “A great self awareness and defensive technique taught by a knowledgeable coach - Tyler.” — from a review of Krav Maga O-Town Orlando
Excerpts from public reviews of the schools listed on this page.
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