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United Studios of Self Defense (USSD) - Lake Forest
5 ★★★★★ 29 Google reviews · Karate dojo in Lake Forest, California
Affiliated dojo — reviews and the dojo's own info point to a recognized Karate style organization or franchise (think Shotokan/JKA, Kyokushin, Goju-Ryu, Isshinryu, Tiger Schulmann's or Villari's). If lineage matters to you, ask which style and organization the dojo belongs to, and under whom the head sensei earned their black belt.
Plan your first class
- Kids & youth classes kids and youth Karate classes — built around discipline, focus, and confidence
- Private lessons private, one-on-one instruction available — a focused way to start or to work around a busy schedule; ask about availability and rates
- Adult classes adult Karate classes — training built for grown-ups, from fitness and fundamentals to kumite (sparring) at your own pace
- Competition team a competition team for students who want to test themselves at kumite tournaments
- Today see hours ·
- Website & schedule karatelakeforest.com — book classes and see the live schedule
- Phone (949) 818-8773
Hours
| Monday | 12–8 PM |
| Tuesday | 12–8 PM |
| Wednesday | 12–8 PM |
| Thursday | 12–8 PM |
| Friday | 2–6 PM |
| Saturday | 9 AM–2 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
The classes they run
“As a mom, I am always looking for activities that don’t just keep my kids active, but also help shape their character.”
“My kids first started karate ~4 years ago and they had their very first private lessons every week with Sensei Dragon and he was nothing short of patient with new students.”
“We absolutely love United Studios of Self Defense in Lake Forest!”
Other martial arts here
“We absolutely love United Studios of Self Defense in Lake Forest!”
What students say
“My daughter had an absolute wonderful experience with Sensei Dragon. The best place to go for Martial Arts.”
“Finding the right environment for your family to grow, learn, and challenge themselves isn’t easy, but USSD Karate Lake Forest has been an absolute blessing for us.”
“We were so lucky to have him as our son’s coach. He loves kids and dedicated to his work.”
“I have only been training for a few months and had the opportunity to compete in the regional tournament.”
“He maintains a wonderful sense of discipline and structure in the class, but wraps it all in a deeply supportive and encouraging environment.”
From the reviews
100 STARS if I could. Whether you’re looking to study the art, get in shape, or have personal growth, look no further than USSD Lake Forest. Peaceful and clean dojo with the best Sensei knowledge in traditional arts and practical applications. To provide context, my daughter is 8, my son is 14, and I am 38.
Finding the right environment for your family to grow, learn, and challenge themselves isn’t easy, but USSD Karate Lake Forest has been an absolute blessing for us. From the moment we walked through the doors, we felt an immediate sense of belonging. Sensei Dragon is truly exceptional.
As a mom, I am always looking for activities that don’t just keep my kids active, but also help shape their character. Finding USSD Karate Lake Forest has been an absolute game-changer for our family. From day one, the dojo has felt like a second home.
I am so sad with the happiest of tears for Sensei Dragon to have moved from the Woodbridge studios to the USSD’s new HQ. This is a well deserved move for Sensei Dragon and my children will surely miss you in our regular dojo.
Your first Karate class at United Studios of Self Defense (USSD) - Lake Forest
Nervous about walking into a Karate dojo for the first time? Almost everyone is, and a good sensei expects beginners to come through the door. Here's what to know. What to expect: a typical first class is a warm-up, then drilling basic stances, blocks, punches, and kicks — not hard sparring. Step to the side whenever you need to; no one will bat an eye. What to wear: athletic wear you can move in (or a gi if you have one); you'll train barefoot. What to bring: water, and a mouthguard if you have one — many dojos lend a loaner gi for a first class, so it's worth asking when you call. As you keep training you'll add your own gi and the belt your dojo awards you. Kumite (sparring) eases in gradually, once your fundamentals are solid. Arrive 10–15 minutes early to sign a waiver and meet the sensei. It gets easier fast — most people feel far more at home by their third class.
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