Santa Barbara Dojo - Santa Barbara, California

C E.

Master Curtis is amazing! He sets a great example for his students. His whole studio is very family oriented and his instructors that work with him are also excellent. Literally everyone here is encouraging and they make sure that you keep learning.and have fun! They teach so much more than martial arts here. They teach great lessons to practice on and off the mat. 😊👍🏼👍🏼 Thank you Santa Barbara Dojo!

Rich G.

We love Santa Barbara Dojo! The instructors are incredibly patient and attentive to the needs of each student, regardless of ability or experience. It is truly impressive how they can deliver helpful feedback while simultaneously keeping a room full of children focused and engaged. Each class maintains a healthy balance of fun and respect, support and discipline.

While our 6-year-old son is most excited about breaking boards and practicing takedowns, we appreciate the life skills he is developing that extend outside the dojo. We have observed improvements in his self-confidence and focus, and routinely reinforce dojo values such as integrity, courtesy, and self-control in our dinner table conversation. Thank you to Master Austin, Sensei Isabelle, and the team for providing such great examples of the values in action!

Jake

As a father of an eight-year-old, finding the right dojo for both of us was paramount. After stumbling upon Santa Barbara Dojo, we were pleasantly surprised by the warm welcome and inclusive atmosphere that awaited us.

From the moment we stepped through the doors, it was evident that this was more than just a place to learn martial arts--it was a community. The instructors exuded passion and expertise, taking the time to understand each student's unique abilities and goals. They struck the perfect balance between discipline and encouragement, instilling confidence and respect in every student, regardless of age or experience level.

What truly sets Santa Barbara Dojo apart is its emphasis on family involvement. The classes are designed to accommodate parents and children training together, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared achievement. As a father, there's nothing more rewarding than sharing this journey with my child, and Santa Barbara Dojo provides the ideal platform for us to bond while learning valuable life skills.

The facility itself is well-maintained and equipped with everything needed for a fulfilling training experience. Whether it's traditional martial arts techniques or modern self-defense strategies, the curriculum is comprehensive and engaging, ensuring that every session is both educational and enjoyable.

Moreover, the sense of community extends beyond the dojo walls. Regular events and social gatherings offer opportunities for families to connect and support each other outside of class, further enriching the overall experience.

In conclusion, Santa Barbara Dojo is more than just a martial arts school--it's a second home for families seeking personal growth, physical fitness, and meaningful connections. With its dedicated instructors, welcoming atmosphere, and commitment to excellence, it's no wonder that we feel privileged to be part of this exceptional community.

Cody W.

If you’d like a place to build your confidence and your kids look no further. Incredible family run operation who get it. I just love working out with my 8 year old daughter!

Kimberley

This place is amazing! We started taking our son there for karate (he is 7) and he LOVES it! They teach in a supportive but disciplined way about integrity, perseverance, self-control, indomitable spirit - all things I want my child to embrace!

Then I noticed they have adult classes. I signed up for their program. First of all, you aren’t joining a gym - you are becoming part of the family. The other people who work out there are SO friendly - there is no intimidation or attitude here! Sometimes the start of class includes quick introductions to folks you haven’t met before!

Second, kickboxing is FUN! I do NOT think of myself as a kickboxer but I go slowly to try to learn the right way and the teachers are supportive and patient with my lack of coordination - ha!

Finally I also love the resistance bands class (usually sore the day after so I know it is working!) They have a good schedule that should work for most and again great staff and environment - highly recommended if you want a fun, supportive and challenging fitness routine!

Araceli T.

The staff and the owner are some of the most positive and motivating people I've ever met. Workouts are intense, but fun at the same time. You pay for a complete experience when you sign up. The instructors push you as if they are your personal trainer, the owner treats you as family when he comes in and it's not stuffy like a gym. SB Dojo is great for beginners, families and anyone who needs a good workout or a boost to get you back into shape!

Miriam B.

I agree with a lot of the comments, myself and initiative have been great and instructing the students in a positive manner however, I really feel like the process of building a community is lacking especially if you are person of color. Having access to the space has been experience that my son rather enjoys during instruction, but immediately following, he wanders back to me and we head out the door and no one really says hi or speaks to us. I’ve spoken and said hi to some parents that I feel did not speak back to me or my son when he said hi intentionally.There was an occasion my child was touched inappropriately and I don’t believe the situation was handled appropriately to acknowledge our challenges within the situation, and on top of that the other parent didn’t even acknowledge that his kid shouldn’t have been touching my son during practice. I know Matthew often and the structus are their best and the little ninjas course but for someone who has a kid who is very disciplined, I feel that he didn’t get the time. Also, do you have a rich experience that he deserves with the art form. … any way after practice nor practices following this incident did anyone acknowledge this, except for one of the instructors mine, who is also black who wasn’t in there who offered me an apology, for this incident by phone. And that speaks volumes in the situation .I really feel like the dojo could benefit from creating time in between the sessions for the students to mingle with each other and build a better sense of community and create a more inviting space to attend to building a sense of belonging for those who are not generally represented within the Santa Barbara, County demographic

Cherilyn M.

I've been coming to MAFF for 10 years and what a fabulous journey it continues to be!

I started with Kickboxing and absolutely loved kicking, hitting and yelling! I added the resistance training classes about a year later and got REALLY strong. In January 2010 I started Martial Arts classes and earned my first degree black belt December 8, 2012.

The classes remain a total blast, the members and staff really are 'Family' just like the name says! I plan to continue, well.... forever!