Founded in 1968, United Studios of Self Defense teaches the martial art form of Kenpo Karate, which is a combination of Japanese Karate, Shaolin Kung fu and Jiu-jitsu. There are many martial arts to learn (Kung-Fu, Jiu-Jitsu, Karate, Kempo, Escrima, Judo, Taekwondo, Kick-Boxing, etc.), but Kenpo will give you the benefits of all of these forms and is easy to learn.
The Martial Art of Shaolin Kenpo is effective for self defense, easy to understand for the beginner but with a depth of material for more advanced students. We believe whatever your reasons are to study Martial Arts, the end result will be a stronger, healthier you.
The Martial Art of Shaolin Kenpo is effective for self defense, easy to understand for the beginner but with a depth of material for more advanced students. We believe whatever your reasons are to study Martial Arts, the end result will be a stronger, healthier you.
Services
Welcome to United Studios of Self Defense, America's Self Defense Leader with over one hundred locations in North America. We offer Professional, Private and Group Martial Arts Instruction for Men, Women and Children, ages four and up. Whether you are a beginner or experienced martial artist, United Studios of Self Defense has a martial arts program to fit your needs.
United Studios of Self Defense teaches Shaolin Kenpo, a mixture of Karate, Kung Fu, and Ju Jitsu. What makes United Studios of Self Defense unique from other programs is that we tailor our program to fit the needs of the individual student instead of molding the student to fit the art.
So whether your a beginner or experienced martial artist, whether you have physical limitations or are a professional athlete, or your just one of the many people looking for something fun, challenging, and rewarding, we have a program for you.The United Studios of Self Defense system is highly effective because the wealth of material allows you, the student, to use whatever techniques work best for you.
So whether your a beginner or experienced martial artist, whether you have physical limitations or are a professional athlete, or your just one of the many people looking for something fun, challenging, and rewarding, we have a program for you.The United Studios of Self Defense system is highly effective because the wealth of material allows you, the student, to use whatever techniques work best for you.
The Martial Art of Shaolin Kenpo is effective for self defense, easy to understand for the beginner but with a depth of material for more advanced students. At United Studios of Self Defense, every student receives thirty minutes of private instruction each week. Private Instruction provides the ultimate in personal training.
Reviews (17)
Gary F.
Oct 24, 2020
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Jay G.
Oct 27, 2015
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Linda T.
Nov 18, 2014
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Sensei Robert has been with United Studios Los Altos since the beginning of 2014 and has turned this location into another USSD success story. Prior to Roberts arrival, there was another SenseiI there and the location at that time turned up some pretty bad reviews. All I can say is give Sensei Robert a try. He has not only turned this location around but I'm sure if you ask his students, his teaching ability and his knowledge of the art comes through when he instructs.
Let me just say that I know Robert personally so don't take my word for it. The best thing to do is go meet Sensei
Let me just say that I know Robert personally so don't take my word for it. The best thing to do is go meet Sensei
M. M.
May 27, 2014
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USSD in Los Altos has been amazing in developing my 7-year old's physical coordination, emotional attitude (respect and self control), and ability to focus. Sensei Robert is deeply dedicated to helping the students get the most out of their time with him. I have watched him work with all sorts of kids, and I can tell he is always thinking about what would be most helpful for each individual. He is patient yet firm.
My son -- who needs to be dragged to most activities (even ones he loves) -- is always excited to go to Friday night sparring class with Sensei Robert.
My son -- who needs to be dragged to most activities (even ones he loves) -- is always excited to go to Friday night sparring class with Sensei Robert.
Adean G.
May 23, 2014
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Sensei Robert McMaster at this school is absolutely terrific! I believe he joined in October, 2013. What a huge change since the former sensei. This has been a complete transformation of this karate location. If you tried this location prior to October 2013, you met with the former Sensei, who was awful. Sensei Robert McMaster has turned this place around.
My 7-year old son had no prior experience with karate, and has been studying here with Sensei Robert McMaster up to 4 sessions per week. My son is consistently enthusiastic to attend classes. In addition, my son has become so dedicated
My 7-year old son had no prior experience with karate, and has been studying here with Sensei Robert McMaster up to 4 sessions per week. My son is consistently enthusiastic to attend classes. In addition, my son has become so dedicated
Anita R.
May 23, 2014
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The older horrible reviews for this studio simply don't apply anymore since the new instructor, Robert McMaster, took over the studio in recent months. He is superb! My kids switched to this studio recently after we discovered there was a new outstanding instructor here. He is wonderful with the kids, managing to be firm and encouraging in a respectful and courteous manner. I wanted my kids to have an instructor who was not only a great teacher, but would also be a good role model in his behavior, since karate can be an endeavor involving many years to reach a black belt. I think this
Test T.
Jul 03, 2013
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I'm a mother of two young daughters, and I would NEVER have my kids come to this place with such an intimidating and rude instructor. PARENTS BEWARE.
My 4-year old and 2-year old daughters were looking curiously through the window at the class. Instructor Jay came out initially very friendly, giving us his business card in case we were interested in classes for kids. Then he came out a second time and asked us to sign-up for his 3:30pm class tomorrow, which I politely said "it's okay" that I was not interested. He suddenly changed faces and told me to "then get your
My 4-year old and 2-year old daughters were looking curiously through the window at the class. Instructor Jay came out initially very friendly, giving us his business card in case we were interested in classes for kids. Then he came out a second time and asked us to sign-up for his 3:30pm class tomorrow, which I politely said "it's okay" that I was not interested. He suddenly changed faces and told me to "then get your
J. L.
Jul 03, 2013
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My kids were watching a class when the instructor came out and used his pushy sales tactics to try to sign my 4 yr old up. When we politely declined, Mr Mohan said well in that case can you get your daughter's face away from my window. If the instructor is rude to potential customers, is he really looking after the best interests of his clients? There's plenty of other martial arts schools in the area and I suggest giving them a try first.
Check out the filtered reviews for the truth about this place.
Check out the filtered reviews for the truth about this place.
Cliff T.
Jun 07, 2013
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Faiza F.
Jan 05, 2013
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My son has been coming here since July of 2011. I have noticed a huge improvement in his self esteem and confidence. The instructor, Jay, is firm and has high expectations for his students, which I really appreciate. He is also warm and able to relate to the younger ones (my son was 4 when he began) with his sense of humor. Even though the location is a bit of a drive for me, it is well worth it!
Reilly C.
Jun 14, 2012
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I have been with United Studios of self defense for years and I absolutely love it. The instructor here works very hard and is very knowledgeable about the martial arts. He is passionate about martial arts and is great at explaining different techniques. One of the really cool, unique things about USSD is they teach a bunch of different styles of martial arts rather than just sticking to one, so you really have a well rounded experience.
The studio is really nice and open. They always keep it clean and are very welcoming. Although USSD is a bit pricey you definitely get what you pay for. It gives
The studio is really nice and open. They always keep it clean and are very welcoming. Although USSD is a bit pricey you definitely get what you pay for. It gives
Mark R.
Dec 07, 2011
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I noticed the extremely negative review from a Los Altos mom and since it suggests that all the parents agree with her, I wanted to comment that our experience with USSD in Los Altos was 180 degrees different. The instructor has taught my nephew an enormous amount about discipline and self-respect. He's been very friendly when I've dropped by to pick up. And more importantly he's genuinely enthusiastic about my nephew's progress both as a martial arts student and a person. Couldn't ask for more in a martial arts studio.
G. M.
Oct 22, 2011
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The instructor is quite rude and unprofessional. The latest incident - I asked him to switch my son's private session to another slot so my son could practice with students at his level. His exact words to my polite request were: "Would you like to put on a black belt and teach the class?"
Moreover, the instructor is late for class, misses sessions and answers the phone during sessions, thereby cutting into class time.
Find another studio - once this instructor signs you up, he loses interest!
Moreover, the instructor is late for class, misses sessions and answers the phone during sessions, thereby cutting into class time.
Find another studio - once this instructor signs you up, he loses interest!
Miya M.
Oct 16, 2011
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Denise S.
Oct 16, 2011
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I am a mother of 3 children, and all of us have been training with USSD for the past 3.5 years. Prior to training at USSD, we all trained at a different Marshall Arts Studio. Switching to USSD was one of the best moves we made in our karate training. I truly believe there is no better Karate Studio than USSD. Very organized. It's true, you get what you pay for. I am now in the Instructor Academy with USSD.
What a great experience! In the Academy I have the pleasure to train with many amazing Instructors. One of which is Sensei Jay Mohan. Mr. Mohan went out of his way at our last tournament
What a great experience! In the Academy I have the pleasure to train with many amazing Instructors. One of which is Sensei Jay Mohan. Mr. Mohan went out of his way at our last tournament
Los Altos M.
Sep 21, 2011
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This is what you can expect from the USSD Los Altos studio. We were patient with the instructor for a year, but after a disturbing incident with the instructor last week, others families should be aware.
1. Instructor has poor interpersonal skills. He is easily offended/angered by questions that customers ask about the service he provides. Rather than accept feedback graciously, or process it in a constructive manner, he distorted it (in our case) and then retaliated against my son by telling us that he would withhold new material because my son relayed feedback to me, which I relayed to instructor
1. Instructor has poor interpersonal skills. He is easily offended/angered by questions that customers ask about the service he provides. Rather than accept feedback graciously, or process it in a constructive manner, he distorted it (in our case) and then retaliated against my son by telling us that he would withhold new material because my son relayed feedback to me, which I relayed to instructor
Jane R.
May 01, 2009
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Brand new! Very Clean and large! Great area featuring merchandise and accessories which is carpeted and mirrored. Nicely organized and great prices.
Met the 4th degreed instructor, and while he didn't seem very warm, it may have been the distraction of the Farmer's Market going on that evening.
These schools are part of a network of schools featuring self defense and martial arts training. It is great for kids (my 'niece and nephew' attended), and they really develop a sense of focus and self-control as well as respect for others.
Your children will not be subject to
Met the 4th degreed instructor, and while he didn't seem very warm, it may have been the distraction of the Farmer's Market going on that evening.
These schools are part of a network of schools featuring self defense and martial arts training. It is great for kids (my 'niece and nephew' attended), and they really develop a sense of focus and self-control as well as respect for others.
Your children will not be subject to
