Portland Academy of Self Defense Introduce
For Oregonians seeking more than just a place to work out, a local gem in Portland is providing a unique and empowering path to physical and mental well-being. The Portland Academy of Self Defense is a premier fitness center and martial arts school that stands out for its personalized approach, positive environment, and commitment to the community. This isn't your average gym; it's a place where individuals of all ages and abilities can build confidence, learn valuable life skills, and get in great shape. The academy specializes in a variety of martial arts, including Hapkido, Kickboxing, Judo, and more, all taught with a focus on practical application and personal growth.
The philosophy at the Portland Academy of Self Defense is centered on empowering the individual. Whether you are a parent looking for a structured, engaging activity for your child, or an adult seeking to learn self-defense and improve your fitness, this academy has a program designed for you. The instructors, led by Coach David, are not just skilled martial artists; they are dedicated mentors who take the time to understand each student's needs and goals. This personalized attention is a key factor in their success, as noted by a parent who shared how their son, who had struggled in other martial arts studios, thrived under Coach David's guidance, showing enormous progress in just a few sessions. This focus on individual motivation and success is what truly sets this academy apart.
The classes are designed to be both challenging and fun, ensuring that students stay engaged and excited about their training. For children and teens, the academy offers a structured environment that helps them with focus, discipline, and building a strong sense of self. One review from a parent of a child with ADHD and anxiety highlighted how beneficial the step-by-step instruction has been for their kiddo. The positive impact of this training often extends beyond the mat, positively influencing behavior at home and school. Adults, on the other hand, can find a rigorous and rewarding workout that teaches them practical self-defense skills, all in a positive and accepting atmosphere where they can feel comfortable pushing their limits.
As a local, Black-owned business, the Portland Academy of Self Defense is a vibrant and integral part of the community. Its presence contributes to the diverse and inclusive business landscape of Portland, providing a welcoming space for everyone. The academy’s commitment to providing a supportive environment is evident in everything they do, from their class structure to their real-world guidance. The instructors' ability to connect with students on a personal level and provide advice beyond the martial arts curriculum is a unique and valuable part of the experience.
Location and Accessibility
The Portland Academy of Self Defense is conveniently located at 8745 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy #C, Portland, OR 97225, USA. This location makes it easily accessible for residents across Portland and the surrounding areas. The academy understands the importance of convenience and has made sure that parking is never an issue for their students. They offer a free parking garage, a free parking lot, and free street parking, giving you multiple options to park with ease. Furthermore, the facility is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot, ensuring that everyone in our community has the opportunity to train and get fit. The ease of access and the availability of on-site parking take the stress out of commuting, allowing you to focus on your training from the moment you arrive.
Services Offered
Hapkido Classes: The academy offers a wide range of Hapkido classes for adults and teens. Hapkido is a highly effective Korean martial art known for its versatile techniques, including joint locks, throws, and kicks, making it a comprehensive self-defense system.
Self-Defense Training: They provide a variety of self-defense programs, including private sessions, workshops, and classes for kids, teens, and women. These courses are designed to teach practical, real-world skills that build confidence and awareness.
Martial Arts for All Ages: The academy offers specialized classes for children, teens, and adults. Programs include Kids Martial Arts, Youth Martial Arts, and Teen Martial Arts Classes, each tailored to the specific developmental needs of the age group.
Physical Fitness Program: All martial arts classes double as a great physical fitness program. Students improve their cardio, strength, flexibility, and overall health while learning a valuable skill. Private personal trainer sessions are also available.
Boxing and Kickboxing: For those interested in striking, the academy offers Boxing and Kickboxing classes. These are fantastic for high-intensity workouts, improving speed, and learning powerful striking techniques.
Judo and Jiu Jitsu: The academy provides instruction in grappling arts like Judo and Jiu Jitsu, which focus on throws, holds, and ground fighting techniques.
Afterschool Program: A great option for working parents, the afterschool program provides a safe and engaging environment where children can learn martial arts, get homework help, and build social skills.
Features / Highlights
Black-Owned Business: The academy proudly identifies as a Black-owned business, contributing to the diversity of the Portland business community and providing a welcoming space for everyone.
Personalized Coaching: The instructors, particularly Coach David, are highly praised for their ability to provide personalized attention and instruction, which is especially beneficial for students who may have specific needs or have struggled in other settings.
No Walk-ins: The academy operates on an appointment-required basis, which ensures a well-structured and organized class schedule, allowing for a more focused training experience for all students.
Flexible Training Options: They offer online classes, outdoor services, and onsite services, providing flexibility to students who may have scheduling conflicts or prefer different training environments.
Discounts: The academy provides discounts for kids and a family discount, making it a more affordable option for families who want to train together.
Free Parking: With free parking in a garage, lot, and on the street, students can easily find a spot without the added stress or cost of parking fees.
Contact Information
Address: 8745 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy #C, Portland, OR 97225, USA
Phone: (503) 449-6419
Mobile Phone: +1 503-449-6419
What is Worth Choosing
For residents of Oregon, choosing Portland Academy of Self Defense is a decision that offers a unique combination of quality instruction, personal growth, and community engagement. The standout feature is the academy's unwavering commitment to individual progress and well-being. The glowing reviews from parents highlight how Coach David's temperament and personalized approach have helped children who previously struggled to find success in martial arts. This shows that the academy prioritizes the emotional and mental development of its students just as much as their physical skills. This kind of positive reinforcement and tailored instruction is invaluable, whether for a child building confidence or an adult seeking a new challenge.
Furthermore, the academy's flexible offerings, including online classes and outdoor services, demonstrate their dedication to meeting the diverse needs of their students. The fact that it is a Black-owned business and has made its facility wheelchair accessible also speaks to a broader commitment to inclusivity and creating a welcoming space for all members of the community. In a city as unique as Portland, finding a business that aligns with these values is a significant factor for many. The availability of family discounts and free parking also makes it an accessible and affordable option for families. In essence, by choosing Portland Academy of Self Defense, you are not just signing up for a class; you are joining a community that is dedicated to your personal growth, providing a positive, supportive, and empowering environment where you can truly thrive.
Portland Academy of Self Defense Martial arts
Martial Arts School
- Boxing
- Judo
- Kickboxing
- Wrestling
- Adult Hapkido
- Adult Martial Arts Classes
- Adult Self Defense Class
- Afterschool Program
- Character Education
- Children Martial Arts
- Children Martial Arts Classes
- Evening Classes
- Hapkido Class
- Hapkido Classes
- Hapkido Martial Arts
- Hapkido Martial Arts Classes
- Jiu Jitsu
- Kick Boxing Martial Arts
- Kids Martial Arts Classes
- Martial Arts Academy
- Martial Arts Classes For Teen
- Martial Arts Lesson
- Martial Arts Taekwondo
- Martial Arts Training For Adults
- Morning Martial Arts Classes
- Private Martial Arts & Self Defense Training Sessions
- Private Self Defense Classes
- Self Defense Classes
- Self Defense Classes For Kids
- Self Defense Workshops
- Self-Defense Classes In
- Self-Defense Training
- Self-Defense Workshop
- Teen Martial Arts Classes
- Teen Self Defense Classes
- Trial Classes
- Women's Self Defense Classes
- Youth Martial Arts Classes
Portland Academy of Self Defense Details
From the business
- Identifies as Black-owned
Service options
- Online classes
- Outdoor services
- Onsite services
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Amenities
- Restroom
Planning
- Appointment required
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Children
- Discounts for kids
- Family discount
Parking
- Free parking garage
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- On-site parking
Portland Academy of Self Defense Photos








Portland Academy of Self Defense Location
Portland Academy of Self Defense
8745 SW Beaverton Hillsdale Hwy #C, Portland, OR 97225, USA
Portland Academy of Self Defense Reviews
skillsclasseshapkidoconfidenceunderstandconceptstudiosflexibilityideaclass sizes
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1We are having a wonderful experience at Portland Academy of Self Defense. Coach David has the right temperament to reach our son, who did not thrive in the class structure of other martial arts studios. He is eager to go to class each week and gives 100% because he feels positively motivated. From what I can see, he has made enormous progress after just a few sessions, and it has overflowed into his behavior at home. Coach David also takes time to give bits of real-world guidance that my son and I are able to discuss on the way home. It also looks really fun! Sometimes I want to jump in! I recommend Portland Academy of Self Defense to people of all ages who are interested in self-defense or just great exercise in a positive, accepting environment.
April 01 · Laura ZubkoI signed my 10 year old kiddo up for Hopkido as a way to learn self defense, to focus, and get fit. They have ADHD and anxiety. David has been teaching them and keeping them in line. The routine and regiment of teaching them different moves, especially step-by-step, has been really beneficial! I highly recommend signing your kiddo up!
July 08 · marti costacheEnrolling in the Portland Academy of Self Defense has been great for me. The training is helping with my fitness, flexibility and confidence. David, the instructor is awesome at explaining techniques, fundamentals and principles of self defense. He explains the ideas behind the concepts. His knowledge of self defense comes through in the instruction. My initial intent was to learn self defense as well as improve my fitness. I look forward to continuing my journey in self defense here at the Portland Academy of Self Defense. I highly recommend this place!
August 25 · Wayman TeagueLove the classes, great with the kids and easy to pick up and start to learn and grow in his class. The classes aren't just for the kiddos, the adult classes are easy to start and great information to start. Coach David explains why the moves interact with the training and gives a great explanation as why understanding the fundamentals helps build on each other. As a vet it's great to work with another vet as well.
August 13 · Steven WhiteMy 13-year-old son has taken Hapkido classes with Coach David at the Portland Academy of Self Defense for three months. I can’t speak highly enough of Coach David and his mastery-focused approach to martial arts training. Rather than teaching martial arts as a sport, he focuses on techniques that will save your life if you are attacked in the real world. In order to achieve this level of understanding and mastery, Coach David teaches concepts rather than set moves. He explains how to respond if you are attacked from any direction (such as 3 o’clock, 6 o’clock, or 11 o’clock) fostering adaptability in his students. Coach David’s enthusiasm for teaching is palpable. He is warm, kind, welcoming, inclusive, patient and responsive to his students’ skill levels and needs. Yet he is also firm and consistent and pushes each student to work harder than they think they can. My son did trial classes at multiple martial arts studios before deciding on the Portland Academy Of Self-Defense. There was truly no comparison between Coach David and the other coaches he tried. There are leaders and there are followers in life. Coach David is a true leader and trains his students to be the same—self-reliant, capable, and fully able to defend themselves. We highly recommend his program.
April 15 · Lindsey Laughlin
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