★ 5

Sama Academy has done wonders for my son. He’s very emotional, and since attending Sama Academy, he’s shown remarkable emotional regulation and discipline. The staff is incredible. A special shoutout to Sempai Mendoza, Joshu, and Sensei. I can’t emphasize enough the village it takes to raise a child with emotional intelligence and self-discipline. The program also provides up to seven opportunities a week for students to learn and practice with hours suitable for working guardians. Considering the monthly tuition, it’s an unbeatable deal.

Source: Google

★ 5

My daughter loves this place! Staff are super friendly, and the instructors are very knowledgeable and skilled. I have seen a lot of progress with my daughter’s confidence.

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 1

They charge to much money and they have preferences, no teach igual.

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★ 4

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★ 5

Sama Academy has been an incredible place for both my son and me. I can’t say enough great things about this place. I initially enrolled my son to help build his confidence since he’s quite shy, and after a little over a year, I’ve seen amazing progress in his focus, discipline, and confidence. He’s excited to go to class 2-3 times a week, which makes me so happy. I'm so grateful I found this place, it’s truly had a positive impact on both of our lives.
I recently joined the adult kickboxing class, and I’m so glad I did! I’m back to working out consistently, and I feel great. If you’re thinking about enrolling your kids or yourself, I highly recommend it! you won’t be disappointed!

Source: Google

★ 5

I’ve been training at Sama for over a year now and want to share how powerful this space has been for me as an adult student.

Sensei John and team create a welcoming, respectful space where I’ve grown stronger both physically and mentally. On hard days, showing up to class gives me a sense of structure, progress, and community. It’s helped me move through some tough moments in life.

As a Filipina, I also love that we also train in Filipino martial arts like Arnis. It’s a powerful way to connect with my culture and build pride in where I come from.

Sama is more than just a martial arts school. It’s a place to grow, heal, and become your strongest self. I can’t recommend it enough.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been a student at Sama for a little over a year and I've been having a wonderful experience with the instructors at Sama. Sensai, Joshua and the team are excellent teachers and they've made a program that anyone can try.
If you're looking to get stronger and get into martial arts, I'd highly recommend Sama Academy.

Source: Google

★ 5

My daughter started attending the Sama Academy a few months back and she loves it! She’s just a white belt right now but she’s really motivated to attend classes to move on to next belt level.

As a parent, I appreciate academy’s focus of positive mental growth, physical health, and self discipline. I can see a sense of accomplishment and confidence developing in her.

Source: Google

★ 5

This place is amazing. My son started here when he was 4 1/2. He had so much energy and was very timid. He is now 9 and a Jr Black Belt as well as he is in there BJJ program. I have watched him grow and excel so much in the last 5 yrs. Sama has taught him so much. My son even talked me into joining there kickboxing class and I love it. Not only is it a great workout but now my son and I have something in common to do together. Sama has become an addition to our family.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 1

I really wanted to like this place, but like every other business, it's all about making money. This past month I spent over $1200 for this and that. I don't know but I'm not made of money and I can't just get a refund. This doesn't sit right with me and I'm earning all parents to be careful with these guys, they are going to tell you they are going to waive this fee or that fee, but get you in the end.

Source: Google

★ 5

10/10 would recommend

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★ 5

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★ 5

Sama Academy of Martial Arts is an exceptional martial arts school with a team of professional instructors dedicated to their craft. The staff and administrators are known for their friendly and welcoming demeanor, creating a positive and inclusive environment for all students. Parents can rest easy knowing their children are in a safe and nurturing environment. Overall, Sama Academy of Martial Arts provides an excellent place for individuals of all ages to learn and grow in their martial arts practice.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

My son loves coming to class,
His teachers are great and really patient.
We have been coming to
Class for about 7 months :)

Source: Google

★ 1

Updating my review to one star!! Due to my previous review left my daughter has been kicked out of the school. There was no conversation had to try and remedy the experience we have been having just a phone call stating we will be refunded and no further discussion. So beware of the type of people you are dealing with here!

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I really wanted to love this place however, once you are actually in and observing what's really going on, it's not as positive as it may seem. Initially my daughter loved coming to class and was progressing SO well very quickly. The only reason I'm giving them two stars and not one is because I cannot dismiss how AWESOME of a teacher Ms. Mendoza is. She shows compassion and thoughtfulness when teaching such young kids who are timid and scared in this new environment.

Now to the negatives, the younger male teacher is an absolute nightmare. The verbal aggression he shows to toddlers and the way he grabs and man handles such little children is disgusting. I don't know how it hasn't been reported honestly. When he started teaching my daughter's class more she instantly began declining and crying due to his aggressive behavior and favoritism towards certain students. There is a lot of favoritism at this school and it is very apparent. Sensei is great and I had a conversation with him regarding that teachers behavior and things did seem to slightly adjust for a class or two. My daughter got her new belt and she was the only one who didn't move up due to that male teacher not feeling like she was ready despite being rewarded her new belt. (Clearly there are some personal feelings involved which is causing him to keep my daughter behind). My daughter's confidence has completely diminished since he begun teaching her class more which is crazy because I thought the whole point of karate is to build confidence?

The facility is always packed and there is no place to accommodate parents comfortably to watch as the classes are way over capacity. 30+ students in one class is insane. For $200/month I expect way more. We have begun looking into the other schools in the area however my daughter is really fond of Ms. Mendoza so I would hate to have to take her out due to another teachers unacceptable behavior.

Source: Google

★ 5

Great school for our Kids! A++ rating!

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

This place is so great for kids-fast paced, disciplined, fun, and easy to work into our schedule with a variety of class times. We love this great community. My girls have been going 5 years and 2 years. And now hubby does it too (also great for adults) :-p

Source: Google

★ 5

Sensei had a very positive impact on my life.

Source: Google

★ 4

Very good my child loves it

Source: Google

★ 5

Amazing academy and great instructors. Sensei Roxas has a special martial arts school that fosters discipline and hard work.

Source: Google

★ 5

My 5 year old son is very shy and at first was anxious to participate, but Sama Academy was very patient and eased him in. He's still shy and at times needs more time to understand the moves, but they are always patient with him. Joshu can identify when he needs more help and makes sure he gets more attention. I feel like my son is well taken care of and I see a change in his confidence. I love taking him to class and watching him grow here.

Source: Google

★ 5

This place is amazing, my daughter started here a little over a year ago and loves it. Teaches her discipline, structure and how to defend herself. And on top of that, she loves coming here. The staff is amazing and knowledgeable. 5 stars

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 5

I TOoK My GIrls To The 1st Class and they was stunned.. KNOW in 3 MONThs LatER tHEY arE BBC2.. I FEeL safe FOR THem as THeY are OUtside PlayINg and can defEND tHemseLVes at ScHOoL.. THanK YOu FrOM auBReYOna And Daeshanay

Source: Google

★ 5

I brought my son here to learn discipline and get out his energy. What we got was way more. The instructors and staff take great pride in knowing each student as an individual and do a phenomenal job in teaching life lessons through community activities. An extra plus is their all inclusive pricing method, you can come to as many classes as you want and will never pay hidden fees for belt promotions. My son and I highly recommend Sama Academy.

Source: Google

★ 5

Source: Google

★ 1

I called for pricing so I can make a decision NOW if it's worth it and IF we can afford it. The young lady on the phone either wouldn't or couldn't give me a price. They said you have 2 take a class first, then after the class you sit in with a person to discuss pricing. I asked to speak to a manager, she said they are going to tell you the same thing. I don't understand this sales tactic. It's unprofessional, It doesn't get ANYTHING solved. Just answer the questi9n. There should ve a set price.

Source: Google

★ 2

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★ 5

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★ 5

We have been happy taking our son to Sama Academy through 2021.

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★ 5

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★ 5

This place is awesome!!!

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★ 5

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★ 5

Love this place! My grandson JJ who is 7 counts and writes on calendar when his days are. Thank you for such a good experience for him!

Source: Google

★ 5

They take careful precautions seriously, no one enters without clearance, spray the shoes and equipment bag, parents wait outside.... when for pickup each child is escort to the parent...staff is very welcoming great communication with parent

Source: Google

★ 5

Attending Sama has revitalized my little girl. She enjoys practicing her moves and enjoys seeing other kids as well as the staff. I have seen he listening, manners, respect, and responsiveness to directions improve and she has a want and will to attend every session. Thank you all!

Source: Google

★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

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★ 5

Great program for all ages. This is my son's 7th year in the academy and still looks forward to attending class every week. They have a wonderful staff!

Source: Google

★ 5

I like this school because I really feel sensei and the staff care about teaching their students.

Source: Google

★ 5

My son has been attending Sama for 7 years and loves it! Great staff and Sensei is awesome!

Source: Google

★ 5

I appreciate that my daughter enjoys coming to class, and is sad when she misses. Thanks to all the staff for the friendly atmosphere. 💜Shanea

Source: Google

★ 5

Sama Academy of Martial arts is the best place to go if you really want to learn self defense and self discipline.

Source: Google

★ 5

Love this place! It builds incredible confidence for kids while teaching them discipline, respect and awareness of themselves and the world around them. Strength and skill as self defense rather than fighting or being a bully - a very important lesson that some kids never learn.

Sensei does a great job running this place and his teaching staff are all great too. My son has learned so much from being here. I'm glad that I placed him at this center.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is a great place to get in shape! It's a welcoming place with students of all ages. My daughter and I train here on a regular basis and love the energy,staff and challenging workouts! They also have a great anti-bullying program that they bring into schools, free of charge!A great academy with a positive, community oriented vision.

Source: Google

★ 5

Before I joined the kickboxing classes at SAMA, I wasn't feeling good about myself. I struggled at first to keep up with the program, but after a couple of months I felt much better about myself, I've lost weight, and I sleep much better. I've been at SAMA for 13 months, and I love it. Joining the SAMA kickboxing class in Pinole has been one of the best decisions I've ever made. Thanks Sensei Roxas, Sempai Hamada, and Miss Maria, for all your time, and patience. You're the best!

Source: Google

★ 5

I had been talking about taking self defense classes for years before joining SAMA. Not only am I learning self defense, but my wife and I are spending quality time together, while getting in shape, losing weight, and learning martial arts. Thanks Sensei Roxas, Sempai Hamada, Miss Maria, and all of our new friends at SAMA.

Source: Google

★ 5

I've been a student here for about 7 years now and I can tell everyone who is thinking about going here that it is an amazing program, with a very nice community of people and that we have the 2 best insturcters here!!!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

This school is amazing! Sansei cares about each and everyone of these children. The staff is great.My son has been attending for 5 years and I have seen huge changes in him. Such as discipline and self confidence that he lacked before karate. The school has always been there to support the children not only in martial arts but school and other sports. It's a family. Best decision we ever made for our child.

Source: Google

★ 5

My family loves Sama Academy. The three of us train here several times a week. The workouts are challenging and push us much harder than we would push ourselves. We love it!!!

Source: Google

★ 5

My son loves coming to SAMA for his martial arts lessons. Sensei Roxas and Sempai Hemada make learning fun while also instilling in its students the focus and discipline required to excel. I love that the school has such a diverse student population coming from all over the Bay Area. As they grow in the program, the kids learn leadership skills and the importance of giving back to one's community. It has been a very positive experience for our family.

Source: Google

★ 5

My daughter and I both attend SAMA and we love it. She is 9 and has been going here since she was 6. I noticed she became disciplined and paid attention in regular school when she started which is one of the reasons why I keep her here. Other reasons we stay is the amount of respect all the children have for the adults and each other, these kids learn how to defend themselves from bullies as well as the discipline of when to use it and when not too...trust me these kids are tough I have held pads for them myself and was blown away by there hard kicks! As far as the adult classes go; if you are looking for a great workout where you are drenched in sweat and never gets boring, this is the place to go. I couldn't be happier with SAMA and their wonderful staff!

Source: Google

★ 5

I absolutely LOVE Sama Academy! My husband and I have been wanting to try a group workout together and found Sama nearby. They were very responsive and scheduled us for a free tryout class right away...which was amazing!

It's not set up like a typical gym but as a martial arts class where everyone, no matter what level, are doing the same exercise. You can definitely keep up by watching the more experienced members and you pick things up very quickly. Sensei Roxas and Ms. Maki are so wonderful to work with and some of the kindest people you'll meet. Everyone here is so supportive and want to see you do well!

I know that some reviewers were put off by pricing, but it's definitely less than what we expected and worth every penny for the workout, skills, confidence and discipline you build. Come join us! You won't regret it ;)

Source: Google

★ 4

My son and I like that place. They make he like sports and strong . He make a lots of friends over there.

Source: Google

★ 5

Started taking classes here back in around 2007 when I was 11. 8 years later it's still an amazing place for not only martial arts but engaging workout routines that'll whip you into shape. Great environment for both children and adults.

Source: Google

★ 5

This is THE place to get in shape. I've been a member at 24 hour fitness, SF's Bay Club, Gold's Gym, etc but only SAMA has created an environment I never tire of. Sensei Roxas keeps you moving and reaching for peak fitness. The curriculum is varied, with depth, so that you can keep fine tuning your performance and technique. Work outs at Sama successfully blend martial arts and general fitness training. Perfection is impossible, but precision is and that's the training there. Sama also has a genuine family atmosphere, with a healthy 'friendly' dose of competitive edge and encouragement. You cannot go wrong. Don't miss out!

Source: Google

★ 5

My son has been attending the academy since March and absolutely loves it, their staff is really helpful and caring about the kids learning. I would definitely recommend it without reservations to anyone interested in martial arts kid or adult.

Source: Google

★ 5

It's been our 4th week attending Karate class. My girls love love it and are always looking forward to the next session. My 6 year old and 9 year old are in two separate classes. So that means 45 minutes between to do homework or get a health snack from Trader Joes, which is always a treat. The classes are very high energy and always have other students assisting in form, stands, hand coordination, and high fives. Although my girls are new they've express their excitement to advance to a ultimate goal of a black belt. As long as they are motivated then I can't wait to see them excel.

Source: Google

★ 5

The diciplen The sences tech my son is excellent

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★ 5

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★ 5

Sama Academy of martial arts its a great school, my daughter has been in this school for a year now, and it has been a great experience sensei jonathan he is the best martial arts teacher he is dedicated and friendly, everybody is very friendly the school is clean and well taken care of.
Definitely the best martial arts academy in the bay area

Source: Google

★ 5

I love the academy !! My son has been going for almost a year now and he enjoys it still. I did their kickboxing class and was in the best shape of my life ! I look forward to having the time to train again once my schedule opens up. Great place, real family feel .

Source: Google

★ 5

SAMA Academy of Martial Arts
We make the drive from Walnut Creek 4 to 5 times
a week because we think Sensei Roxas is the best around.
My daughter 6, and my wife and I have been training here for the last
year and a half and couldn’t imagine training anywhere else.

Source: Google

★ 5

We have been going to SAMA for 7 years now. Words really don't convey how great our experience has been. Our hope in joining was to provide an effective platform for our young son to gain self-confidence and have the discipline, courage, and skill to defend himself should the situation arise. This, and so much more, has been accomplished. The Academy is the best martial arts school in our area, retaining a high percentage of students who have achieved black belt status. In turn, these students help provide an atmosphere of respect and friendship that make the exercise, drills, and work enjoyable. Sensei Jonathan and all the instructors are consistently great teachers. Although it is usually true that you get what you pay for, at SAMA, you really get much more. Our experience has been priceless. The Academy provides many opportunities to try out their programs and, for anyone interested in learning martial arts, you can't go wrong at SAMA.

Source: Google

★ 5

My daughter was really hating gymnastics... I had to find something else for her to do. One day we were eating dinner at the sushi spot next to SAMA and she couldn't stay out of their gym... Ms. Maria came up to me and gave me a card for (2) visits for my little girl... and she fell in love.

My daughter ran the gymnastics class... I really needed something more strict and demanding for her, but also fun enough to keep her interested. She was barely 4. The Sensei and everyone involved in the academy listened to what I was looking for in a program and really put the pressure on her to not play around in class, pay attention, learn, and be present. I couldn't be happier, and neither could my daughter.

Thank you everyone at SAMA! <3

Source: Google

★ 5

Sama Acadamey is a great martial arts program for kids and grown ups alike. My son attends the BBC program and he has had such a positive experience. He has fun, he's learned self discipline, and he gets to participate in an activity that keeps him physically healthy and motivated. I myself have attended the open adult kickboxing and they are great workouts! I love that Sama Acadamey also frequently participates in community events and gives back to charities that raise funds for good causes. They truly live by their creed and I highly recommend them!

Source: Google

★ 5

My family loves SAMA Academy. My grandson has been at the school since he was 5 years old and is working his way up. He has learned self discipline and respect as well as having gained so much self confdence since starting here. The staff are like family and Sensei Roxas is a wonderful instructor that is amazing with all the kids. I highly recommend this school.

Source: Google