Charleston Self-Defense Academy & Martial Arts

Next to Books-a-Million, on the right, 2150 Northwoods Blvd Unit B-1, North Charleston, SC 29406

4.8 (49 reviews)

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Charleston Self Defense Academy provides high quality martial arts instruction to students of all ages and experience levels. Our programs include Judo, BJJ, Boxing, Muay Thai, Aikido, Karate and Tumbling. Get fit, get confident, and have fun!

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Reviews

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Darius Dash

I've attended this gym for a long time to do martial arts. I only have good things to say about the instructors and the management.
Posted 1 year ago
Ginger Rogers

Great martial art studio, instructors are very knowledgeable, the communities very welcoming and friendly. I learned a lot from one session! I can’t wait to be back!
Posted 1 year ago
Craig Gleason

Judo, juijitsu, boxing, even tumbling. A great place and far pricing. Every child that comes will feel welcomed and will be challenged. All the instructors are great with the kids and ensure everyone has fun. At this dojo you are not just another person, it is very personalized. Jill the tumbling instructor has a lot of experience and my daughter loves working with her. Sensi Brad is the lead instructor and has a lot of techniques to keep the keeps engaged.
Posted 3 years ago
Adrian Clynes

Highly recomended they let me train for a week for a decent price, the profesors were pretty good and the enviroment really friendly.
Posted 3 years ago
Shawna Fritz

My son has be training here for almost a year and loves it! I recently started training a month ago. The instructions are very knowledgeable and work great with kids and adults. When my son started he didn't have the courge to stand up for himself, now he does. He has gain confidence through training and tournaments. They teach the kids not to use their skills to start a fight, but how to defend themselves.
Posted 4 years ago
KZ Russ

I absolutely love this gym. It has such a homey and family friendly vibe; it's made me feel a lot less homesick after I moved here. I've done the boxing, judo, jujitsu, and self defense classes and I'm never disappointed. The instructors are all well spoken and very knowledgeable (both within the specific classes and in general questions regarding techniques and muscle development & pain management). I love the idea that they had to use the day time as a child care/virtual schooling area and another thing that really stood out to me is the care that they take regarding safety in the kids classes. One specific example being how the instructor (Rob) was checking the technique on their falls and while doing the throw, it was both slow enough for the child's size and he also supported their head/neck throughout the movement then provided feedback on how they could improve. Lisa and Rob have a really good crew and do a great job with the gym! Covid: They do take temperatures and record them at the door. I've also seen them stream classes for some people that weren't comfortable coming in, though that may be something you have to ask for specifically. I'm not 100% sure.
Posted 5 years ago
St Sebastian

Best game in town for Boxing, Judo, BJJ and Wrestling. Also HIIT and Xtreme Hip Cardio step classes.
Posted 6 years ago
Manuel Valderrama

Great gym, great instructors, so much fun and everyone is nice
Posted 6 years ago
Aaron Hawk

I have known the instructor here for many years and I have a ton of respect for him. He teaches the best krav maga classes in the area. The gym is set up very well with lots of space to move and very safe and clean. I highly recommend them!
Posted 7 years ago
Jazimen Wiggins

Great space and atmosphere me and my two kids and husband attended this gym we love gives us things to do outside of work plus it’s a great workout for all of us we love this place I would recommend kids and adults to sign up ASAP
Posted 7 years ago
Sondra Urton

These guys are awesome with children. My 4 year can't stop talking about her classes.
Posted 7 years ago
Crystal Urton

My four year goes here! This place is just amazing! They are very good when it comes to the children! I love how great they work and teach the children exspecailly the younger children!! I'm very glad that I allowed my child to go this center! They are amazing people here!!
Posted 7 years ago
Moe G

Great professional place!!!! So glad I found them!!!
Posted 7 years ago
Megan O'Day

Charleston Self Defense Academy and MMA has awesome instructors to teach every level from never wrapped their hands beginners and up. In my first week I have learned a lot and have gotten a brutal workout every time! If you want to learn how to actually fight and not just go through the motions of the workout this is the place to go! 10/10 would recommend.
Posted 7 years ago
Rebecca Aledia

My son was wanting to start boxing in order to have an outlet and get in shape. We tried the free class and now he’s hooked! The facility is nice, the instructor was very helpful and the guys are friendly. Nichole at front desk was also very informative 😊
Posted 7 years ago
Lauren Hampton

This is a great place to get fit- welcoming, encouraging atmosphere, fun instructors with real world experience, and lots of class options. Highly recommend!
Posted 8 years ago
Newly Humbled

This is an amazing place to blow stress off. Diverse classes great trainers that work with you and they're not over bearing. I would recommend this gym to anyone looking to get in shape and/or start competing.
Posted 9 years ago
Abadael Perez

Everyone from the instructor to the students made it super easy to learn. I spent far too long thinking about joining a boxing class, don't make the same mistake. Dabble or immerse yourself in all the different fighting styles they have to offer. Nate, the boxing instructor, is knowledgeable and patient. Definitely helpful for anyone like me who has zero fighting or boxing experience.
Posted 9 years ago
David Bates

Great place to learn the essentials for MMA!!! Family oriented and great for all ages!
Posted 9 years ago
Noah Evans

I always have a fantastic experience at CMMA. I originally attended last year when the owners were kind enough to lend their space to my wrestling coach and our wrestling club. Since that time, even though I left for quite a while before my recent return, its always felt like home to me. The coaches are patient and dedicated to making sure you are 100% ready for whatever style you decide to train in, and even beyond sports will help you with things as simple as just getting in shape as they also offer a fitness class. I look forward to every class and look to start my amateur careers in boxing and MMA with Charleston Fit and MMA.
Posted 9 years ago
Aidan Murray

Great place to go and learn something new and have fun doing so. The owner and the instructors are amazing and will help you when you need it.
Posted 9 years ago
Phelan Murray

Welcoming environment to learn and thrive in. Even if you walk in and know nothing, the instructors will make sure you walk away learning something new.
Posted 9 years ago
Arjun Jain

It's awesome! The gym is spacious with modern equipment and has cool coaches who pay close attention!
Posted 9 years ago
Tammy Murray

It's a great place for classes, I love the environment, I don't feel judged which is great. The instructors are awesome and will work with you...Me, my husband and 3 kids go and love it.
Posted 9 years ago
lilli sustaita

This is a very welcoming gym. I have been there for 6ish months and learned more self defense than I can explain. The gym is very welcoming and like family.
Posted 9 years ago
Daniel Murray

Great works, Great atmosphere and attitudes. My family attends together most days.
Posted 9 years ago
Jeff Leinberger

My son (10 years old) could not do a somersault when he started almost 8 months ago. Now he is flipping around all over the place. His confidence is stronger and he has developed some great friendships! They professors have been awesome I can't believe how much he has learned in just under a year. He has already had the opportunity to go to two tournaments with his team and done so well. Great alternative to your typical sports. Reasonably priced and flexible on your schedule.
Posted 9 years ago
Dustin Turbeville

Charleston Fit & Martial Arts is a great facility with very knowledgeable instructors who welcome you into their classes and run a very good program. A must for anyone looking for a good gym to start or continue their martial art or workout journeys. Highly recommend!!
Posted 9 years ago
Rebecca Johnston

Charleston FIT and MMA is such an amazing place. I was looking for trainers that will motivate me and kick my butt because there's no way I'm working out at home for 30 minutes alone in front of a DVD player. They are so motivating, and understand when I need the push. Tim, Haley, Ricardo and Stephanie are rock stars and with one class of boxing under my belt, I will definitely be adding that to my routine. Do yourself a favor and join this place because it's awesome! And such a great location!
Posted 10 years ago
Randy Hale

Great place. Staff is friendly and helpful. I haven't trained BJJ since 01,but the class treated me like I had been with them for years. They have weights and heavy bags to use anytime. That's cool because I don't need two gym memberships. I haven't done the other classes but it looks like everyone is enjoying the hard workouts. Highly recommended.
Posted 10 years ago
Kent Hewett

Big space, great instructors, and a non clique atmosphere to learn in. I train jiu jitsu there under 3rd degree black professor Roger Costa and I'm extremely enjoying him. Hes an awesome, humble, encouraging, and gracious leader who lives the lifestyle in full. He teaches self defense jiu jitsu which many of the other gyms are missing. He keeps the ART in jiu jitsu. I am so glad I came back! Best deal in town and the most experienced instructors for your money. Whether u wanna get in shape, compete in various martial arts, or just learn self defense this place has lots for anyone. The whole family is welcome and it's a great place with a great atmosphere to learn in. You also will find no mat space bigger in this area to train. Try it out. U won't be disappointed
Posted 10 years ago
Roger Costa

Good environment for all ages and experience levels, recommended for from experienced martial artists to entry level individuals. The fit classes, martial arts and combat sports reaches out to most of the students whether they are looking for a better quality of life or high level competition.
Posted 10 years ago
Go James

This is a first class facility that reaches out and finds the most knowledgeable staff available. I am a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Professor Costa here consistently impresses me with his knowledge and is by far the most technical instructor I've seen. I look forward to continue learning from him. Join this gym and thank me later!
Posted 10 years ago
Takuya Ono

Great Clean Facility With, Kind And Patient Staff, That Works With People Of All Ages From Children And People Of Older Age. Has All Types Of Programs Whether You Want To Learn Brazilian Jujitsu To Boxing, Kickboxing, Muay Thai, Or Just To Burn Off That Extra Weight You've Been Looking To Lose! Highly Recommended To Join!
Posted 10 years ago
Glen Jeansonne

As a fan of mixed martial arts and starting to gain a couple pounds now that I have hit the big 40 I decided to give this gym a try for my physical fitness as well as to learn some MMA. So far I've been impressed with every aspect. The owner is very knowledgeable and always seems easily approachable for any issues you might have. They get an A in my book....
Posted 10 years ago
Rhonda Evans

My son has been attending Charleston Fit & MMA for about 4 months and he absolutely LOVES it! The time that the kids class is offered is perfect and being a young adult he also participates in the adult class. He enjoys his coach and classes so much that he even wakes up early on Saturdays to attend their 10am class. He's learned so much that he will be participating in his first tournament this weekend! I highly recommend this gym to anyone looking for an MMA class.
Posted 10 years ago
Timothy Sarazen

The vibe in here is awesome and I'm excited to keep coming back. Thanks for the great first intro- I'll be back.
Posted 10 years ago
Lexton Steed

I love coach rich
Posted 10 years ago
Hailey Dolan

Just walking through the doors it's clear to see that this place is not just somewhere to workout but a family. With the knowledgeable coaches and members willing to help one another, it's a place that makes anyone feel comfortable.
Posted 10 years ago
Joseph Swaim

I work out at the gym currently and very please. Recently I re-aggravated a hamstring (initial injury occurred before starting at the gym) playing soccer during the weekend. The staff did a wonderful handling it. They job adjusting the workouts and gave me adjusted workouts. After I told them about my issue, they showed me stretches and warm-ups.
Posted 11 years ago
Sumetra Sam Promanee

Its Great Place to jump start your fitness goals and reach personal goals when changing your life style to a healthier and better You.
Posted 11 years ago
Christian Johnson

amazing place, with an amazing welcoming vibe. There is legit martial arts knowledge in the form of the instructors and some real athletes and fighters who train there. great place to bring your whole family to get in shape, or continuing competing
Posted 11 years ago
Timothy Breckenridge

As the owner I am proud to offer the best option for physical fitness and MMA in the Lowcountry! We have the most experienced instructors and coaches in their respective disciplines. We focus on friends, family and fun. If you can't enjoy working out, you will never make it a lifestyle choice. Weather you are training to be a fighter, learning Jiu Jitsu or just want to get in shape through cardio boxing. CFIT & MMA is the place for you!
Posted 11 years ago
Charleston Self-Defense Academy & Martial Arts

This is a great place if you want a workout that is going to make a difference. The instructors are great. Sam & O.C. really got the Cardio kickboxing class pumped up and motivated. Todd led the FIT class (Functional Interval Training) There is also a kids program and the offer all types of Martial Arts like Jujitsu, Muay Thai, Kickboxing and boxing. My son (11 years old) trains Jujitsu there; he competed in his first tournament after training for a month and won 1st place in his division. I can't say enough good things about this gym. You need to get in there and try it. The 1st class is free and they don't do the pressure selling. Well they don't really have too, the place sells itself!
Posted 11 years ago
Jenna Kpack

The gym has some great instructors who are very knowledgeable about the programs they offer! The program that I favor is the kids and adult judo class. The instructors are all very well versed in what they teach and are versatile with the variety of age groups they work with (young children up to adults). They also make it feel more like a community than just a fitness/self defense class. It is nice seeing how they come together to teach the art and culture, and how to do things the right way to avoid injury. The only thing I dislike about the gym is that some classes aren’t consistent with the staff members. Even in those cases, they all are on the same page and very skilled. Otherwise it’s a pretty good gym! The owner knows just about every student’s name and makes a fairly welcoming atmosphere.
Posted 7 years ago
Peregrine Sky

Schedule said there was a no go jiu jitsu class today 24th September@0800. I’m here 0800 there’s no one, lights are out. Disappointed, recommend updating your schedule and not wasting potential customers time.
Posted 4 years ago
Brooke Music

****Please note, the 5 star review above was written and posted by the OWNER***** My biggest tip about this place is to avoid at all costs. It is truly unfortunate, as I love to see the growing MMA and jujitsu scene in Charleston. Sadly, the new owner of this gym operates in an unethical and untrustworthy manner. Beware of signing a contract and giving the owner your checking account information. He will allow Member Solutions (MSI) to bill your contracted amount monthly under one name, and then he will bill you additionally under the Gym name Charleston FIT and MMA. While you can dispute these charges with the bank, if you have given them your routing and account number, it becomes more difficult and time consuming. I would also advise new members to ask a lot of questions. The entire staff has turned over TWICE since the most current owner has purchased the business. At this point the gym does not employ any NASM certified trainers for any of their classes. Finally, ladies, beware of working one-on-one with the owner. He can get quite grabby and makes inappropriate sexual comments, additionally he creates an uncomfortable training environment. Learn from my experience, do not give him your cell phone number.
Posted 10 years ago