United Studios of Self Defense Introduce
Nestled in the vibrant and historic Fillmore District of San Francisco, United Studios of Self Defense (USSD) is a distinguished martial arts school that offers a unique and highly effective training experience. This dojo is more than just a place to learn kicks and punches; it is a community dedicated to building character, confidence, and real-world self-defense skills. For residents of California, finding a martial arts program that provides both a challenging workout and meaningful personal development is a top priority, and USSD delivers on all fronts. As the largest martial arts school chain in North America, USSD has a rich history dating back to 1968, teaching its unique system of Shaolin Kenpo. This hybrid style, which combines elements of Karate, Kung Fu, and Jiu Jitsu, is designed to be highly effective and adaptable to the individual student's strengths and limitations.
The core philosophy at United Studios of Self Defense is centered on personalized instruction and holistic development. The school’s private training program is a key differentiator, allowing students to progress at their own pace and receive direct, focused feedback from instructors. This personalized approach is particularly beneficial for students of all ages, helping them to accelerate their growth and achieve their goals. The dojo’s leader, Sensei Collins, is a prime example of the high caliber of instruction. As a parent-member notes in a review, Sensei Collins is not only an "excellent instructor" but an "even better mentor to all of his young students." This emphasis on mentorship and personal connection is what sets USSD apart, creating a supportive and inspiring environment where students feel valued and motivated to succeed. The dojo's commitment to safety and respect is paramount, ensuring that every training session is productive and empowering.
The positive impact of the training at United Studios of Self Defense is clearly illustrated by the experiences of its students. One reviewer proudly shared that their daughter, after years of "devoted, supportive coaching," not only earned her brown belt but also went on to start a women's self-defense club at her school. This is a powerful testament to the effectiveness of the education provided here, which goes beyond physical techniques to instill a sense of empowerment and leadership. The school's curriculum is comprehensive, covering a wide range of techniques from hand strikes and kicks to pressure points and blocking systems. This wealth of material ensures that students are well-prepared for any situation, with the added benefit of flexible training programs that can accommodate various schedules and goals. Whether a student is a beginner or an experienced martial artist, USSD offers a program that is both challenging and rewarding.
United Studios of Self Defense is conveniently located at 1850 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA. This prime location in the city's Fillmore District makes it a central and accessible destination for residents of the Bay Area. The school is well-integrated into the local community, offering a physical space where students can train and connect with one another. Accessibility is a key feature of the dojo, with a wheelchair accessible entrance that ensures a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. The school also provides convenient amenities, including an onsite restroom, for the comfort of students and visitors. In addition to in-person training, United Studios of Self Defense offers online classes, providing a flexible option for students who prefer to train from home. This blend of onsite and virtual services, combined with the central location, makes it easy for anyone to incorporate martial arts training into their busy life.
Services Offered at United Studios of Self Defense:
- Martial Arts Training: A comprehensive system of Shaolin Kenpo, a hybrid of Karate, Kung Fu, and Jiu Jitsu.
- Online Classes: Flexible training options for students who wish to learn from home.
- Onsite Services: In-person training at the Fillmore Street dojo.
- Kids' Programs: Engaging classes for children focused on building self-esteem, discipline, and character.
- Teen Classes: Tailored programs to help adolescents and young adults navigate the modern world with confidence.
- Adult Classes: Programs for adults of all abilities to unlock their potential through martial arts and community.
- Private Lessons: Personalized one-on-one training to accelerate learning and focus on specific needs.
- Self-Defense: Practical techniques and principles for real-world self-defense situations.
- Bully-Prevention: Specialized training to help children and teens handle bullying with confidence.
- Weapons Training: Advanced instruction in various martial arts weaponry.
Features and Highlights:
- Wheelchair Accessible Entrance: The facility is designed to be accessible to everyone, promoting inclusivity.
- Onsite Restroom: Convenient facilities for students and visitors.
- Accepts Credit Cards: Flexible payment options for a hassle-free experience.
- World-Class Instruction: Led by a highly praised and respected Sensei who is an excellent instructor and mentor.
- Dual Training Options: Offers both in-person and online classes to suit various schedules and preferences.
- Proven System: Teaches a unique and effective system of Shaolin Kenpo, with a history dating back to 1968.
- Personalized Training: Focuses on individual growth and progress through a strong private lesson program.
Contact Information:
Address: 1850 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
Phone: (415) 771-5186
What is worth choosing United Studios of Self Defense?
For those in the California Bay Area, choosing a martial arts school is a decision that can have a lasting impact. United Studios of Self Defense is a standout option for several compelling reasons. The most significant is the quality of its instruction and the emphasis on personalized mentorship. As a reviewer noted, Sensei Collins is not just an instructor but a "mentor," and this distinction is crucial. The school's commitment to guiding young students and helping them develop character is a benefit that goes far beyond the dojo. The real-world results, such as a student starting a self-defense club at her school, speak volumes about the effectiveness of the education provided here. It is not just about learning moves; it is about building the confidence and leadership skills to make a difference.
Furthermore, the school's unique training model, which combines private lessons with group classes, ensures that every student gets the attention they need to succeed. This hybrid approach allows for rapid skill acquisition and a deeper understanding of the techniques, while also fostering a sense of community. The accessibility of the location in the Fillmore District and the availability of both in-person and online classes make it a flexible and convenient choice for busy lifestyles. The fact that USSD is the largest martial arts franchise in North America, with a standardized and effective curriculum, provides peace of mind that you are learning a proven system from qualified instructors. Ultimately, choosing United Studios of Self Defense is a decision to invest in a place that is committed to helping you or your child become a stronger, more disciplined, and more confident individual, all within a supportive and professional environment.
United Studios of Self Defense Details
Service options
- Online classes
- Onsite services
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
Amenities
- Restroom
Payments
- Credit cards
United Studios of Self Defense Photos










United Studios of Self Defense Location
United Studios of Self Defense
1850 Fillmore St, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA
United Studios of Self Defense Reviews
senseiunstructured supplementary service datalearnadultsbeltkarateconfident
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1We’ve been members of this dojo for several years and highly recommend it! Sensei Collins is an excellent instructor and an even better mentor to all of his young students. Having grown up around martial arts myself, I am continually impressed and thankful that my kids are part of this program.
February 22 · G CGreat dojo! Sensei Collins is world class. Our daughter earned her brown belt after years of devoted, supportive coaching. She started a women's self-defense club at her school as a result of this wonderful education @ USSDSF.
June 24 · sara jI have studied at this dojo for over 10 years starting when I was a kid. It is a great environment for people of all ages, and would highly recommend it to anyone. Sensei Collins is an amazing instructor and really caters to each individual student's specific needs.
January 04 · Julian McWilliamsGreat Dojo. Sensei Collins is the best teacher one could hope for. Always calm, patient, focused, knowledgeable and understanding. He makes sure every second in the dojo counts. For me it has been a lifestyle change since I joined almost two years ago.Looking strong and being strong are two different things. That’s what you learn at the dojo.With bad people on the streets, I highly recommend to join USSD SF and learn the intricacies of Self defense and karate in its purest form.
February 16 · Abhinav (AB-NOW)Both my son and daughter have studied for over five years at USSDSF going multiple times a week. They have been lucky enough to join the traveling team - sparing, grappling and competing with kids all over Northern California. It has been a tremendous learning experience for both of them, teaching them responsibility, respect, self-defense and putting them in positions where they truly need to be brave. The USSDSF dojo has become a second home to both of them filled with friends and mentors of all ages. I highly recommend this experience for SF kids (and adults!).
December 20 · Michelle Hirons, HigherRing
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