Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Martial Arts Training in La Mesa, CA
Established in 1968, our school has delivered authentic martial arts instruction for over five decades. Under the leadership of Head Instructor Todd McElhinney, a 10th Degree Blackbelt with 35 years of teaching experience, we provide comprehensive training in American Kenpo Karate, Kick Boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Mixed Martial Arts, and Self Defense. Our instructors, certified through Dick Willett's American Kenpo Karate Association, maintain rigorous standards of expertise and professionalism.We serve students of all ages and skill levels in La Mesa, CA, offering flexible group classes and private lessons designed to improve physical conditioning, self-discipline, and practical self-defense capabilities. With a legacy of excellence recognized through awards like Instructor of the Year and induction into the Kenpo Karate International Hall of Fame, we combine traditional martial arts principles with modern teaching methods to create engaging, effective learning experiences.
Services
Kenpo Karate
Kick Boxing
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Self Defense
Mixed Martial Arts
Private Lessons
Details
- Year established: 1968
Highlights and features
- Instructors certified through American Kenpo Karate Association
- 35+ years experience of Head Instructor Todd McElhinney
- Family-friendly environment for all age groups
- No contracts or hidden fees
- Combines traditional and modern martial arts techniques
Associations and certifications
- American Kenpo Karate Association
Services
Kenpo Karate
Traditional American Kenpo Karate instruction focusing on practical self-defense techniques, physical conditioning, and character development. Classes emphasize situational awareness and controlled responses to various threats. Designed for students of all ages seeking comprehensive martial arts training.
Kick Boxing
Dynamic kick boxing classes combining cardio fitness with practical striking techniques. Instruction includes proper stances, punches, kicks, and defensive footwork. Ideal for improving physical fitness while learning effective self-defense strategies.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Specialized Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training focusing on ground fighting techniques and submission holds. Certified instructors teach practical self-defense applications and sport grappling skills. Classes accommodate all experience levels from beginner to advanced practitioners.
Private Lessons
Tailored one-on-one martial arts instruction for individual learning needs. Sessions available daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Personal training allows for focused attention on specific techniques and accelerated skill development in multiple martial arts disciplines.
Self Defense
Practical self-defense programs teaching situational awareness, threat assessment, and physical defense techniques. Curriculum covers real-world scenarios and legal considerations for self-defense. Designed for all ages and fitness levels seeking personal safety skills.
People
Todd McElhinney
Head Instructor
10th Degree Blackbelt with 35 years teaching experience. Certified by American Kenpo Karate Association. Three-time Instructor of the Year award winner. Trained directly under Grandmaster Dick Willett since 1988.
Dr. Mick Leone
Chief Counsel
9th Degree Blackbelt with over 40 years martial arts experience. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program director. Holds 2nd Degree Blackbelt from Fabio Santos. Certified by American Kenpo Karate Association board.
Questions
What martial arts disciplines do you offer?
We offer American Kenpo Karate, Kick Boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Mixed Martial Arts, and Self Defense training programs.
Are classes available for children?
Yes. Children's group classes are offered twice weekly with age-appropriate instruction focused on basic techniques and discipline.
What are your class schedules?
Adult group classes run Mon-Thu 7:00 PM, and Tue/Thu/Sat 11:00 AM. Private lessons available daily 10:00 AM-8:00 PM.
Do you offer family discounts?
Yes. Family, buddy, and pre-pay discounts are available through our Specials program with no contracts or hidden fees.
What experience do your instructors have?
All instructors are certified black belts with decades of combined teaching experience, including recognition in Kenpo Karate International Hall of Fame.
Where are you located?
Our martial arts school is located at 7959 University Ave., La Mesa, CA 91942, with easy freeway access from I-8, I-125, and I-94.
Reviews (7)
Deborah Ulm
Oct 17, 2021
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We've been coming here about 3 months now. I like the instructors and their teachings. Very welcoming place.
Diana-Joseph Gamez-Morton
Dec 14, 2020
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Very unprofessional guy was 10 minutes late And you look like the dude from Cobra kai with his drunk dirty looking self
Dennis Endriga
Nov 30, 2020
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Great place to learn and train American Kenpo Karate. Would recommend to anyone interested in the martial arts.
Bubba O'Riely
Jan 17, 2020
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I had two years of Kempo training before I came to this place. And with just three months of Kenpo kickboxing training here, I was able to defend myself and win a fight against an expert in taekwondo. Now I've come back to learn more, and it's situational defense too.
Theresa T.
Jul 06, 2019
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I've been coming to American Kempo Karate since 2015, & I love love love American Kempo Karate, I've also taken Taekwondo @ Kempo as well in Los Angeles & I also take Soo Bahk Do- they are all awesome , Master Todd is a well established martial artist w\ a rich background- he's been at the studio for over 40 years! It's great on the bod, creates a excellent balance for anyone willing to keep up an outdoors adventurous lifestyle, like myself- I try to live an active healthy life- American Kempo Karate does the job! One more thing- every day I go in for my lesson Master
K. D.
May 13, 2019
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I've been training in martial arts for the last 15 years, at this studio for the last 6-7 years. Todd has helped me tighten up my boxing skills while helping develop fight strategies. The instructors here are great with both young kids and adults, always patient and engaging. You won't find a more authentic Kenpo school anywhere else is San Diego.
Justin M.
Mar 20, 2019
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I came here to give karate a try in early 2018, and I've never wanted to go anywhere else. I love karate, and I love this place. It's the epitome of an old school karate dojo. Todd is an incredibly effective (and entertaining) teacher, the people who practice here are non-judgmental and very welcoming, there's a sense of family, and the bottom line is that you will learn how to defend yourself very well here, while having fun too.
