United Studios of Self Defense Huntington Beach
Huntington Beach, CA, Orange County
(32)
Huntington Beach, CA, Orange County
(32)
A family-owned Huntington Beach martial arts studio offering instructions in Kempo martial arts, Muay Thai kickboxing, Jiu-Jitsu, women's self defense, kids programs and more. We give private individualized lessons to each fully enrolled Kempo student - which is how our students progress extremely well, not just in rank, but practical self defense.
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32 customer reviews
H S.
Our 2 sons have been taking kempo at this studio for less than a year and we have already seen tremendous change in their skill, passion, and personal development. Sensei's Ted and Nalu are awesome instructors and they get the fine balance between pushing a student and lofting him or her up. Â I love the way they speak to their students with the utmost respect. They make martial arts fun but are able to maintain a level of seriousness as well. That dojo has truly become our second home and we couldn't be more grateful. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Jennifer U.
This is an awesome studio in HB run by an amazing family. Our boys joined USSD to learn self defense, improve confidence and build strength. It has been a fantastic way for them to gain those goals plus have fun at the same time! Sensei Ted is an incredible leader and mentor and is fantastic with the students. He recognizes their personalities quickly and is able to tailor his teaching to best fit their needs. I definitely recommend this studio! More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Deb R.
Excellent studio for kids to learn and improve self esteem as well as skills of self defense and character building. Classes for all levels and great instructors. Â Would recommend for young kids.
Reviewed on Yelp
Charles H.
We sent our niece and 2 nephews here while they were down from up north last summer to learn some basic self defense. We figured it would give us a break from the beach all day really + gramma asked me to keep them off the video games, to be completely transparent. We sent them for about 60 days (thinking they would quit after 1 try). They loved it!! All I have heard for the last 8 months is "we get to go back to United this summer right uncle Chuckie?" over and over again. I am surprised to say the least, they don't even care about the beach. The staff and instructors here are very good with kids and teenagers. We sent a 12yo girl, + a 5yo & 9yo old boys. This review is long over due. I here they even tried another spot back home, and just got really bored. This summer we plan on staying and watching a little more out of pure curiosity. Those kids are obsessed. Â Bravo Team United More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Dennis Demoss
Ted is a great teacher and coach.
Reviewed on Facebook
Mikey Rasmussen
I trained there when I was 9-11 trained with now who is sensei mike. He is amazing and funny and a great teacher. I recommend all kids teens and adults train here. If I could I would be back in a heartbeat. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Elena Puricelli
Great school, awesome teacher and I love variety of self-defense plus classic karate. Highly recommend to adults and children.
Reviewed on Google Maps
Ella Matias Morales
I don’t even know where to begin, this place is simply phenomenal. Its hard to explain how great Sensei Ted is, you would have to come see for yourself. He cares for each and every one of his students, young or old. He offers classes five days a week, and my daughter wants to go to every single class. She is learning so many things here and she’s having a great time while doing so. Not just different forms of martial arts and self defense, but life skills. We are his newest and biggest fans. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Leigh Keller
Great environment for all levels and ages. Love this Dojo!
Reviewed on Facebook
Elena Puricelli
I love going to classes! instructor Ted makes it fun and educational. I love learning all kinds of different styles of martial art and self-defense technics.
Reviewed on Facebook
Jennifer Thomas
This is a wonderful place to learn self defense. Come on over and try it out!
Reviewed on Facebook
Ken Mayberry
Great place to learn martial arts! I am very pleased with Ted's instruction..... He is very patient and extremely knowledgeable!
Reviewed on Facebook
Lottie Miller
Ted is the go to man for all your self-defense needs! At any age he'll teach you ways of defense for yourself! No worries with Ted! Yay!
Reviewed on Facebook
Kyle Smith
I don't know sensei Ted personally, but that does not matter because if you have the high honor of wearing the logo patch as chief instructor, you represent integrity, honor, love and strength
Reviewed on Facebook
Lisa Mae
Such a fun place!! We feel like family and my kids love it!! Highly recommend!
Reviewed on Facebook
Debbie Webb Johnson
My daughter has gotten a lot out the self defense course taught by Ted! Thank you.
Reviewed on Facebook
Shannon Suel
This is the best studio ever! Excellent work out with a very supportive staff and fellow students!
Reviewed on Facebook
Pete Jacobs
Sensei Ted and USSD HB are great! My 2 boys are taking Kempo classes and they LOVE it. Sensei Ted keeps the class fun while at the same time teaching them discipline, respect and hard work. I recommend USSD HB to everyone. I have seen students of all ages in there sweating and smiling. More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Katherine Won Buerkle
My older son has been a part of USSD HB for about 3 months and he loves it as much today as he did on the first day. (We discovered the dojo on a school field trip). As a martial arts practitioner myself of about a decade, I am impressed with the balance of hard work and fun (can you say Nerf Wars once a month?) I also liked that Sensei Ted said he had been open about one year, but there were mostly junior belts in class...sometimes studios just test their students quickly to get them through the ranks, but the belt levels seem very consistent with the duration of the studio open. I would highly recommend the kids program to any/all children. I have yet to try an adult class, so I can’t speak to that at the moment. They have recently started a Tiny Tigers class for the very little kids...I can’t wait until my littlest is ready for it! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Jennifer Moore Dupuis
I cannot say enough good things about this amazing studio, and its incredible owners, Ted and Tanya! Both my 11 year old daughter and my 8 year old son take Kempo classes here, and they absolutely love it! Neither of my kids had any martial arts experience when they started, and they have learned so much in such a short amount of time. Sensei Ted has such a positive energy that shines through when he is teaching the kids! He makes the classes fun and engaging while teaching the kids skills, self discipline and positive attitude. It is a great, family-friendly studio! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
Christine Relf
This dojo is a fantastic place to train! The instructor Ted is terrific! If you live in the Huntington Beach area I highly recommend giving them a try! You will be happy you did!
Reviewed on Facebook
Ted Alexander Charfauros
I checked into my own studio here and FB is asking me to share my experience. Although this is meant for students and parents, I will tell you that my experience here at this studio has been amazing. I love teaching the kids and love teaching the adults. The relationships we share, fun we have together has been priceless. And there's nothing like giving pieces of confidence to someone through their learning of the martial art. Couldn't have a better job! More...
Reviewed on Facebook
stoner jesus
I've been taking classes here for a very long time now and I'm enjoying the experience much more than before USSD owned the studio. This is a great place to learn kenpo, and the instructor is easy to get along with. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
John Paul
This is a fantastic karate studio for children of all ages. Sensei Ted and his instructors ensure a safe environment as they intentionally develop each student at a pace best suited for the individual. It is a true family run business, where Sensei Ted and Sensei Tanya, along with their children, teach and participate in classes. They go above and beyond in creating an atmosphere for kids, with activities after classes that allows the students to continue socializing and grow in their relationships. As a parent, I highly recommend USSD HB and I'm thankful my daughter (7) and son (5) have found an activity that allows them to grow both physically and mentally. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Grace R.
If you or your kids are looking for a fun, safe studio to learn karate this is your place.Sensei Ted is super patient and welcoming to his new students. Â My two kids weren't sure about taking any sort of martial arts class as they were afraid the teacher was going to be mean or stern. Â After their first class at USSDHB they were hooked and ask to go back every day. Â Sensei Ted keeps the classes fun and engaging while teaching the kids kempo and proper technique. Â Everyone from the owners, to the parents and students are friendly and kind. Â They all truly make you feel like family. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Devin Tanigawa
The kickboxing class is great. The instructor, Ian, really pushes and encourages you. He’s very engaging and really creates a welcoming environment for the class and studio. It’s great to learn a little better technique and get a great workout in. If I lived closer, I’d go every week! If you’re in the area, definitely check it out. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Matthew Ernst
I have attended several kickboxing classes at USSD taught by instructor Ian Butler and the classes are fun, educational and push you to grow as a martial artist. He speaks to people individually during the class and helps them to fine tune their technique. The classes are great for all age ranges and skill levels. It is a great work out or opportunity to develop new skills. I would highly recomend this Dojo as all of the instructors are exceptional martial artists and human beings. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
MEME HELL
I've been taking classes here for a very long time now and I'm enjoying the experience much more than before USSD owned the studio. This is a great place to learn kenpo, and the instructor is easy to get along with. More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Laura Ehrlich
If you are looking for the perfect fit for a karate studio....look no further! My 10 year old daughter is currently enrolled here and has been going about 8 months. We were so comfortable the minute we walked in the door. The atmosphere is clean, professional & so friendly. She was nervous at first, but her self confidence has soared & she looks forward to each class. Sensei Ted is a natural teacher. He is so patient, encouraging and willing to take each child's personality into account while training. Tanya and Nicki, who often help with the classes, are just a pleasure and great role models for our little girls. Our experience has been top notch and I highly, highly recommend trying a class! More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Heather Jurenka
We LOVE USSD HB and Sensei Ted & Family!! My 6 year old son has been practicing with Sensei Ted for about 10 months and enjoys the challenge and learning Shaolin Kempo martial arts. He especially loves the one-on-one sessions because he gets that direct attention. Sensei Ted & Family are so amazingly down to earth and individualistic, they have really taken the time to get to know Jacob and what learning technique/s work the best for him. We will be here for a long time, Thank you so much!! More...
Reviewed on Google Maps
Jeff N.
My 12 year old daughter has been going to USSD HB for about 6 months and it has been a great experience for her. Â Self-defense and confidence was something that us as parents felt was very important for her, and she is growing in both. Â Sensei Ted is amazing and helps them understand the basics as well as breaking down the more complex techniques. Â There is great care at this studio to ensure that everyone walks away happy. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
Phat N.
My wife recently enrolled our 6 year old son into lessons at United Studios of Self Defense. Â We didn't really know what to expect but so far we have been pleased to see that Sensei Ted teaches his students to how to defend themselves all while focusing on self discipline, respect, integrity, sincerity, and character. Â We plan on continuing his lessons and we definitely recommend this dojo to any one looking for a place for their child or children to learn martial arts. More...
Reviewed on Yelp
What do you love most about your job?
We love sharing the magic of martial arts with everyone - children and adults, young and older. Martial art training will instill confidence, discipline and focus within oneself benefits them in many areas of their lives.
What inspired you to start your own business?
With a passion for self defense as well as the traditional martial arts, Sensei Ted and his wife wanted to share their wealth of knowledge by opening their own studio.
Why should our clients choose you?
Besides loving our family environment and beautiful studio, United Studios dojos have a tried and true system of teaching with over 50 years of experience and expertise in martial arts. One main differentiator between other schools is that we offer semi-private lessons to every fully-enrolled student, every week. This has proven to help students progress well and excel as fast as they'd like to. Other sports cannot compare to this. Martial arts is unique in the comprehensive benefits it offers.
