United Studios of Self Defense, Palo Alto

- 3773 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306

Located conveniently in Palo Alto, California, United Studios of Self Defense stands as a pillar of martial arts education and character development in the Bay Area. This esteemed academy is more than just a place to learn to fight; it is a supportive and structured environment where students of all ages can build confidence, discipline, and a strong sense of self. The school's curriculum is a unique blend of various disciplines, including Jujitsu, Karate, and Kung Fu, with a strong foundation in Shaolin Kenpo. This comprehensive system is designed to provide practical and effective self-defense skills while also promoting a healthy lifestyle and mental fortitude.

A key reason for the academy's success is its exceptional staff, led by the highly respected Master Gary L. Flickinger, the Chief Instructor of the Palo Alto location. Master Flickinger is known for his ability to provide the discipline and structure that can have a profound positive impact, especially on younger students. His mentorship is praised by former students who describe it as a massive part of their growth and character development. The environment at the dojo is both supportive and encouraging, yet it requires a non-negotiable respect for the art and the space. This balanced approach is what helps students truly flourish, with parents observing a transformative change in their children's focus and ability to follow directions, both inside and outside the classroom.

United Studios of Self Defense provides training for every member of the family, with specialized programs for children, teens, and adults. The children's classes focus on a positive reinforcement system that helps kids set and achieve goals, not just in martial arts but in all aspects of their lives. The teen program is designed to equip young adults with the skills needed to navigate the challenges of the modern world, including effective self-defense. For adults, the programs offer a much-needed reprieve from daily stress, focusing on physical fitness, mental development, and practical self-defense techniques.

What sets this school apart is its proven and effective system, which is a hybrid of different combat principles. The curriculum is a wealth of knowledge, with over 120 kicking techniques, more than 300 hand strikes, and numerous defensive maneuvers. This extensive training ensures that students are well-prepared for any situation, with techniques that are effective regardless of size or strength. The focus on private lessons alongside group classes is also a major advantage, allowing students to receive personalized attention and advance up to four times faster than with group lessons alone. This flexibility and individualized approach are what make the commitment to earning a black belt a truly achievable and rewarding goal for every student.

Beyond regular classes, the academy offers a variety of specialty courses, including bully prevention, women's self-defense, and even a popular summer camp. These programs demonstrate the school's commitment to serving the broader community and providing a safe, educational, and fun experience for all.

Location and Accessibility

United Studios of Self Defense, Palo Alto is conveniently located at 3773 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306. This prime location places it in a central and easily accessible area, making it a convenient choice for residents of Palo Alto, Los Altos, Menlo Park, and surrounding Bay Area communities. Its position on a major thoroughfare ensures a straightforward commute for new and returning students.

The academy is committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone. It features a wheelchair accessible entrance and a dedicated wheelchair accessible parking lot. These important accessibility features ensure that individuals with mobility challenges can comfortably and safely access the building and participate in the programs offered. The facility also includes a restroom, adding to the convenience for all students and their families.

The combination of a well-located facility and its thoughtful accessibility features makes United Studios of Self Defense a practical and stress-free option for anyone looking to begin their martial arts journey.

Services Offered

• Adult Programs: Comprehensive martial arts and self-defense training for adults.
• Children’s Program & Child Classes: Age-specific classes designed to teach discipline, respect, and focus.
• Teenage Program: Tailored classes that equip teens with the physical and mental skills needed for success.
• Group Classes & Group Lessons: Training sessions that foster a sense of community and camaraderie.
• Private Instruction & Private Lessons: One-on-one training for personalized attention and accelerated progress.
• Women’s Self-Defense: Specialty courses focused on practical self-defense techniques for women.
• Bully Prevention: A program designed to teach children and teens how to handle bullying situations.
• Summer Camp: A fun and educational experience for kids during the summer break.
• Cardio Training & Strength and Conditioning: Fitness-focused classes that improve overall health and stamina.
• Law Enforcement Classes: Specialized training programs for law enforcement personnel.

Features / Highlights

• Exceptional Mentorship: Led by Master Flickinger, who is a dedicated and highly effective mentor known for his positive impact on students' character development.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Offers a unique and effective blend of Jujitsu, Karate, and Kung Fu in the Shaolin Kenpo system.
• Family-Friendly Environment: Provides a supportive and encouraging atmosphere that is highly recommended for kids and families.
• Personalized Training: Focuses on private instruction to ensure students receive the attention they need to succeed.
• Accessibility: The facility is wheelchair accessible with a dedicated entrance and parking lot.
• Proven Results: The discipline and structure of the program have been shown to have a positive impact on students' behavior and focus outside of class.

Contact Information

Address: 3773 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306, USA
Phone: (650) 325-4946

What is worth choosing

Choosing United Studios of Self Defense in Palo Alto is a decision to invest in a martial arts education that is truly transformative. What makes this academy stand out is the profound positive impact it has on its students' lives, as evidenced by the glowing testimonials. The mentorship provided by Master Flickinger goes beyond the physical techniques, shaping character and instilling valuable life skills like discipline and respect. For parents, this is a place where you can see a "switch was flipped" in your children's behavior, with a positive influence that extends from the dojo to the classroom and beyond.

The comprehensive nature of the training is another key advantage. The blend of different martial arts styles provides a versatile and highly effective self-defense system that is customized to each student's needs through private and group lessons. This flexibility ensures that every student, regardless of age or ability, can find success and achieve their goals. The academy’s commitment to accessibility, with its wheelchair-friendly features, makes it a welcoming place for everyone. By choosing United Studios of Self Defense, you are not just signing up for a class; you are embarking on a journey of personal growth, character development, and empowerment that is well worth the commitment.

United Studios of Self Defense, Palo Alto

3773 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA 94306, USA