Business Details
Transform Your Life with Expert Martial Arts Training in Irvine
Lifeskills Martial Arts is the premier Bujinkan Ninjutsu dojo in Southern California, dedicated to providing a comprehensive study of self-defense rooted in 2,800 years of Japanese tradition. Our training combines physical combat techniques with psychological and emotional resilience, designed for individuals of all ages and abilities. With over two decades of service in Irvine and Orange County, we are the only Martial Arts University in the region offering courses from beginner to university level. Our certified instructors bring a minimum of 22 years of experience in Ninjutsu and Bujinkan Budo, ensuring a curriculum that adapts to diverse needs, including specialized programs for the blind, deaf, injured, and neurodivergent students. Founded on the principle that life is not a spectator sport, we empower every participant to overcome doubt and build confidence through adaptive martial arts education.The integration of High Stress Scenario training by expert Chuck Cory, featured on the History Channel, ensures practical real-world self-defense skills. Our facility accommodates personalized attention with small class sizes, fostering a supportive community passionate about growth and mutual development. From childrens programs to senior citizen initiatives, Lifeskills Martial Arts remains committed to inclusivity, technical excellence, and the holistic development of every student. This dedication to accessibility and mastery has solidified our reputation as a trusted institution for Complete Martial Arts training in Southern California.
Services
Bujinkan Ninjutsu
Self-Defense Training
Kids Martial Arts
Adult Classes
Special Needs Programs
Weapon Training
Women's Protection
Birthday Parties
Highlights and features
- Our instructors have minimum 22 years of Ninjutsu and Bujinkan Budo experience
- Specialized programs for blind, deaf, injured, and neurodivergent students
- Historical methods combined with real-world self-defense scenarios
- Small class sizes with personalized instructor attention
- Certified curriculum adapting traditional Japanese martial arts to modern needs
What people say
World-class instruction
Inclusive environment
Expert instructors
Personalized attention
Life-changing programs
Services
Bujinkan Ninjutsu
Master authentic Japanese martial arts through the nine Bujinkan schools combining samurai techniques with ninjutsu. Students learn weaponry, joint locks, pressure point attacks, and ground control while developing situational awareness against multiple attackers. This comprehensive system preserves 2,800 years of tradition while adapting to modern self-defense needs.
Self-Defense Training
Develop practical skills for real-world threats through high-stress scenario training. Our curriculum prepares students to handle armed attackers, multiple opponents, and crisis situations using proven techniques from both ancient martial arts and modern security practices. Training emphasizes awareness, de-escalation, and effective response strategies.
Kids Martial Arts
Little Dragons classes teach children aged 5-11 essential life skills including environmental awareness, discipline, and confidence. Structured programs with age-appropriate techniques use Lifeskills Books series to instill warrior principles while improving physical coordination and mental focus through martial arts fundamentals.
Special Needs Programs
Pioneering inclusive martial arts instruction for blind, deaf, injured, and neurodivergent individuals. Our certified instructors modify techniques to accommodate wheelchairs, sensory needs, and developmental conditions like autism and ADD. This award-winning program demonstrates that martial arts training benefits individuals of all abilities.
Weapon Training
Train with 18+ traditional Japanese weapons including swords, staffs, and throwing implements. Students learn safe handling, combat applications, and historical context of each weapon system. Advanced classes integrate weapon defense against multiple attackers while maintaining situational awareness.
People
Chuck Cory
Head Instructor
45+ years martial arts experience with black belts in over 10 disciplines. Featured globally on History Channel for expertise in Bujinkan Budo. Teaches physical, psychological, and emotional self-defense to diverse communities, including federal agencies and special needs populations.
Cathy Lewis
Instructor
30+ years martial arts experience specializing in Bujinkan and Kung Fu. Certified in child safety and self-defense instructor with extensive international training in Japan. Focuses on women's protection courses and mental preparedness for real-world scenarios.
Michael Roberts
Instructor
20+ years martial arts experience combining Bujinkan and cyber security expertise. Former police department youth program worker with Masters in Oriental Medicine. Integrates physical training with mental resilience and modern safety practices.
Questions
What martial arts styles do you teach?
We specialize in Bujinkan Ninjutsu covering nine traditional Japanese schools with authentic samurai and ninjutsu techniques.
Do you accept beginners of all ages?
Yes! We offer programs for children aged 5+, adults, and seniors through our Art of Living program.
Are your instructors certified?
All instructors are LMA Certified with minimum 22 years studying Ninjutsu and Bujinkan Budo.
Do you have special needs accommodations?
Yes, we pioneered adaptive martial arts programs for blind, deaf, injured, and neurodivergent students.
Can I try a class before committing?
We offer a $99 trial program covering first three months to experience our training environment.
Videos
Reviews (6)
Kyle Sullivan
Jun 03, 2019
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The only place I know that teaches you how to be a ninja! Great place to learn true life skills. I have taken a few classes and I am excited to take more soon. Will be telling my friends to come here.
Sarah J.
Jun 15, 2016
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This place is amazing! We had my six year olds birthday party here and couldn't have been happier. It was ninja themed. The staffed worked with me to order the piata and balloons, the place was set up really cute when we arrived. There was plastic covering the sand area and swords/trophies (smart!) and the kids all had a blast running around to the different stations. The rock climbing wall was a huge hit! Almost every parent complimented us on the place. The staff was amazing with kids and parents alike. I cannot recommend this place enough for a martial arts kids party!!
Heidi K.
Mar 22, 2016
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Hello everyone,
You are invited to our Candle Class on Wednesday, March 23rd 2016. at 6:00 PM. (Adults regular class). We look forward to seeing you all!! Thank you,
LifeskillsMA Team
You are invited to our Candle Class on Wednesday, March 23rd 2016. at 6:00 PM. (Adults regular class). We look forward to seeing you all!! Thank you,
LifeskillsMA Team
Andrew G.
Mar 22, 2015
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Pretty much the only actual traditional katana school in the Irvine area. Chuck, one of the most nicest and talented men I've met, was very welcoming and actually knew what he was talking about. I have a 2nd degree black belt and I thought I knew the art of the sword but I learned so much from just one seminar. There was also this lady named Cathy, and she was just one of the most adorable and sincere people I've met. I felt so much more comfortable having her presence around. If I lived near the area, I would definitely attend here. However I live over 45 min away so I'll
Tom S.
Aug 01, 2014
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I love this place! I've been training in this dojo for over a year now, but in this art for over nine years. The greatest thing about Chuck is that he is a battle tested instructor. His life experiences have reinforced the art he has learned directly from Hatsumi-our Grandmaster. I highly recommend this dojo.
Ash W.
Feb 04, 2014
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My partner and I wanted to start a new martial art both to get in shape and to learn new skills. We have now been training at Lifeskills for about 3 weeks and it has been great so far. The adult classes are great and I love the variety, it's not the same drills week in and week out. Each teacher brings something different to the table and does an excellent job of making sure everyone in class is learning something at their level. We've checked out Mon, Tue, Wed and Fri evening classes and have settled in to a 3 nights a week training schedule, but there is a lot of flexibility, as you
