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Self-Defense Classes and Safety Workshops in San Diego, CA

11 of the 189 martial arts schools we list in San Diego have self-defense training.

This section lists martial arts studios offering dedicated self-defense instruction for adults and specialized women's safety courses. Programs range from single-day weekend workshops covering practical escape tactics to ongoing weekly classes focused on situational awareness and physical response. Before booking, confirm whether the curriculum focuses on scenario-based real-world defense or standard sport martial arts techniques.

  1. Cali Combat Systems: JKD, Inosanto Kali-Silat, Combat Jiu-Jitsu & Krav Maga

    10433 Reserve Dr, San Diego, CA 92127-3510

    Wed-Thu 7pm-8:30pm, Sun 10:30am-12pm

    Kids classesFree trial classBJJ / grapplingMuay thai / kickboxingKarate / taekwondoMMA
    Call Website Directions

  2. Church's ATA Martial Arts

    3810 Valley Centre Dr, San Diego, CA 92130-3308

    Kids classesKarate / taekwondo
    Call Website Directions

  3. Clark Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy

    1851 San Diego Ave Ste 100B, San Diego, CA 92110

    Kids classesFree trial classBJJ / grapplingKarate / taekwondoMMA
    Call Website Directions

  4. Full Potential Martial Arts Academy

    3323 Carmel Mountain Rd, San Diego, CA 92121-1035

    Sat, 08 Feb 2025 09:13:28 +0000

    Kids classesFree trial classBJJ / grapplingKarate / taekwondoMMA
    Call Website Directions

  5. Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu in San Diego - Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

    4809 Clairemont Dr, San Diego, CA 92117-2790

    Mon, 23 Mar 2026 17:40:16 +0000

    Kids classesBJJ / grapplingMuay thai / kickboxingKarate / taekwondoMMA
    Call Website Directions

  6. Manna's Martial Arts

    12285 World Trade Dr, San Diego, CA 92128-3772

    Call Website Directions

  7. Practical Karate

    4170 Morena Blvd, San Diego, CA 92117-5203

    Kids classesFree trial classBJJ / grapplingMuay thai / kickboxingKarate / taekwondoMMA
    Call Website Directions

  8. Primal Training Center

    9811 Mira Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92131

    Kids classesFree trial classBJJ / grapplingMuay thai / kickboxingMMA
    Call Website Directions

  9. RB Training Systems

    7894 Ronson Rd, San Diego, CA 92111-1909

    BJJ / grapplingKarate / taekwondoMMA
    Call Website Directions

  10. Shaolin Academy Martial Arts

    10570 Thornmint Road Suite 103, San Diego, CA 92127

    Kids classesMuay thai / kickboxingKarate / taekwondo
    Call Website Directions

  11. SwiftKick Martial Arts

    16775 Bernardo Center Dr, San Diego, CA 92128-2564

    Mon-Fri 9:00 AM - 6:30 PM

    Kids classesFree trial classBJJ / grapplingMuay thai / kickboxing
    Call Website Directions
Check age and gender restrictions before registering, as many specialized women's or teen self-defense seminars have strict attendance requirements.

Also in San Diego

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Self-Defense Classes and Safety Workshops near San Diego

Good to know

How much do self-defense classes usually cost?

Single-day workshops typically cost between $25 and $75 per participant for a 2-to-4-hour session. Ongoing monthly membership programs range from $100 to $180 per month, often including access to regular martial arts classes.

Do I need prior martial arts experience to join?

No, beginner self-defense courses require zero prior martial arts or combat experience. Instructors teach simple, high-leverage movements and situational awareness concepts designed for people of all fitness levels.

What should I wear to my first self-defense class?

Wear flexible athletic clothing such as a t-shirt, athletic pants or leggings, and clean sneakers. Remove all jewelry, watches, and hair accessories with sharp edges before training to prevent injury during practical drills.