Poway Martial Arts

Business Details

42 Years

experience

Premier Martial Arts Training in Poway, CA

Poway Martial Arts has been a family-owned and operated institution in Poway, California, for over 40 years. Founded in 1984 by Barry Barker, a 9th Degree Black Belt in American Kenpo, we specialize in traditional and modern martial arts instruction tailored for all ages and skill levels. Our programs include Kenpo Karate, Boxing, Muay Thai, Women's Self-Defense, and Youth Self-Defense, emphasizing physical fitness, mental discipline, and practical self-defense skills. With a team of certified instructors, including Barrys children who are accomplished martial artists, we foster a supportive, family-oriented environment that prioritizes individual growth and community impact.

Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our structured curricula, personalized attention, and testimonials from students who credit us with transformative life skills. We also offer online training resources and community outreach initiatives, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for diverse learners.

Services

Kenpo Karate Boxing Muay Thai Women's Self-Defense Youth Self-Defense Fitness Boxing Kids Martial Arts Adult Martial Arts Self-Defense Classes Online Martial Arts

Details

Year established: 1984

Highlights and features

We offer 40 years of experience in martial arts instruction.
Our team includes certified instructors with decades of expertise.
We provide programs for all ages and skill levels.
Our community-focused approach fosters a supportive environment.
We emphasize practical self-defense and fitness.

What people say

Family-friendly environment Experienced instructors Transformative confidence Structured programs Community involvement

Website

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Services

Kenpo Karate

Kenpo Karate combines striking, grappling, and weapon defense techniques for comprehensive self-defense. Our curriculum teaches students to adapt to multiple attackers and real-world scenarios while building physical strength and mental focus. With programs for children, teens, and adults, we emphasize discipline, respect, and confidence through structured belt progression.

Boxing

Boxing classes enhance cardiovascular health, coordination, and self-defense skills through bag work, sparring, and technique drills. Our certified coaches tailor sessions for beginners to advanced athletes, focusing on proper form, endurance, and practical combat applications. The program promotes stress relief and physical conditioning in a dynamic, supportive environment.

Muay Thai

Muay Thai training includes strikes, clinch work, and knee techniques to improve agility and combat effectiveness. Classes incorporate conditioning exercises and partner drills to develop speed, power, and tactical awareness. Students learn traditional forms and modern applications for both fitness and competitive purposes.

Women's Self-Defense

Women's Self-Defense courses teach practical techniques to de-escalate threats and protect oneself in dangerous situations. The curriculum covers strikes, escapes, and situational awareness, tailored to empower participants with confidence and physical skills. Classes are conducted in a supportive, non-intimidating atmosphere.

Youth Self-Defense

Youth Self-Defense programs for ages 314 focus on age-appropriate techniques, character development, and physical fitness. Children learn discipline, respect, and confidence through structured lessons that blend martial arts fundamentals with fun, engaging activities. Parents report improved behavior and academic performance in participants.

People

Barry Barker

Founder

Barry Barker, a 9th Degree Black Belt in American Kenpo, has over 40 years of martial arts experience. He founded Poway Kenpo Karate in 1984 and authored 3 books and 15 instructional videos. Barry has promoted over 80 Black Belts and received multiple martial arts hall of fame inductions.

Jessica Barker

Senior Instructor

Jessica Barker, a 3rd Degree Black Belt, brings expertise in Kenpo Karate and youth instruction. She contributes to the schools structured programs and emphasizes character development for young students.

Jordan Barker

Senior Instructor

Jordan Barker, a 5th Degree Black Belt, specializes in advanced Kenpo techniques and competitive training. He supports the schools mission through community engagement and mentorship.

Questions

What martial arts styles do you offer?

We offer Kenpo Karate, Boxing, Muay Thai, Women's Self-Defense, and Youth Self-Defense programs tailored for all skill levels.

Are there classes for children?

Yes, we provide age-specific classes for children aged 3–14, focusing on discipline, fitness, and basic self-defense techniques.

Do you offer free trial classes?

Yes, we invite you to try a free class or our Trial Program to experience our training environment and instructors.

What are your instructors' qualifications?

Our instructors include certified Black Belts with decades of experience, including Barry Barker, a 9th Degree Black Belt and founder of the American Kenpo Alliance.

What are your class schedules?

Classes run Monday–Friday 12pm–9pm, Saturday 9am–3pm, with youth, adult, and specialty sessions available.

Reviews (5)

Write a Review

Jose Angel Barrientos

Jan 29, 2019 Report

If you are looking for a new way to stay healthy, build a bit of muscle, learn self-defense, or compete in martial arts,then you make your way down to 10th Planet Poway and learn from the best instructors and fighters in San Diego!!! Just be sure that you are ready to be surroundedby humble, friendly and awesome people, from all walks of life, when training here!
Liz Carmouche is an INCREDIBLE MMA and Muay Thai instructor! The only thing bigger than her muscles, is her level of kindness and desire to take your striking technique to the next level! No matter what your level of fitness, Liz

Krystal Longmore

Jun 28, 2018 Report

My son has been going here since February 2018. He has gained alot of knowledge and respect for other people. The staff is all very kind and they work well with the children and really get down on their level in a way that children understand.

Emily K.

Oct 19, 2015 Report

My son went to karate for six months here. Mr. B. and Patty are really nice and very knowledgeable about karate. I liked having my son taking his classes here and interacting with them while we were current customers. It was a good experience for my son, but we did not like our inaccurate billing situation afterwards.

J. Coppola

Dec 31, 2013 Report

I've been enjoying the Kenpo adult classes when I can make them. Good instructors, good workouts. I I like the extended stretching, but I understand it's boring to most of the younger folks. It's us old people that need to stretch more! Thanks!

Chris Borrego

Jun 02, 2013 Report

The instructors are knowledgeable and highly skilled. There is a positive family atmosphere. You have the best Karate program for kids I have seen in over 20 years. My daughter is thriving in the kids classes.