Martial Arts in Orinda

Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian art form that combines elements of song, dance, and ritualized fighting that is centered on a physical game called jogo de capoeira. Like Spock and Kirk forced to fight by a threatening tribunal of bearded men, two players dance around each other in the center of a circle, exchanging movements of attack and defense in a constant, heart-pumping flow. Both players attempt to control the space by confusing their opponent, although no intentional contact is made or harm done—unlike sticks and stones with hurtful words carved into them. The observers in the circle play a variety of traditional Brazilian instruments and sing, setting the pace and beat of the dance-fight. Explore the schedule to find times during the week that work for you; additional classes are held at 7 a.m. by appointment only. Each session will immerse you in the flips, feints, kicks, and songs of capoeira.

Former law-enforcement officer Antoine Fisher has devoted his career to keeping people safe, from directing defense courses for locals to working security for Janet Jackson. His school's classes teach civilians how to safely handle firearms according to NRA standards, and specialized training classes help security professionals stay current with the latest defense tactics. Additionally, unarmed self-defense classes prepare participants to subdue or evade an attacker with strikes, takedowns, or by becoming invisible. He also offers special rates for active-duty officers. Beyond training, Antoine coordinates security services that range from supplying canine handlers to securing construction sites and office buildings.

Mid-America Martial Arts may have started small, but today it's a thriving fight community where students feel like family. Head coach Aaron Cerrone and his fellow instructors have mastered numerous martial arts, including muay thai, judo, and Brazilian jujitsu as well as Bruce Lee’s jeet kune do system and Filipino stick fighting. These men and women push students to succeed, treating both combat skill and personal development as top priorities. Their holistic approach likely explains why many of the gym's students do well in MMA competitions and go on to serve on the Roman Senate.

As CEO and chief instructor of Condition and Competition Kickboxing, Ed Carpio draws from a victory-studded background of competitive fighting. Though he came to the art of Chinese kickboxing (also called sanshou) at 21, later than many greats, he rose through successive bouts to become a national lightweight champion. Ed then turned to training others with his expertise, remaining devoted to his sanshou students throughout his sporadic returns to the ring, a study in judo, and a government summons to deflect an impending asteroid.

CCK preaches acceptance and positivity through programs for all ages, from toddlers to adults. Its gym has been highlighted on one of KRON 4's "Best of The Bay" segments for casting a familial air over martial-arts learning. Bordered by camouflage-painted walls, guests can launch strikes at bags, pads, and partners during kickboxing courses, or focus on classical conditioning with weights and fitness machinery.

Krav Maga is taught in an encouraging team-training atmosphere, where participants can draw inspiration from their classmates for motivation. The two-hour seminar will impart practical skills to defend against an unexpected, unwanted, and uncool attack. Learn to escape from dozens of hazardous situations including chokes, knife threats, punches, and beefy bear hugs. The class welcomes anyone over the age of 15 and all physiques, strengths, and experience levels. Choose to attend your seminar on a Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. or a Saturday at 1:30 p.m. through the end of May. These days and times will change in June. Call ahead for more information or to reserve your class time.

At Heroes Martial Arts, visitors can hone their roundhouse kicks and power-packed punches to build strength, decrease reaction time, and reinforce defense skills. A one-week pass allows students to attend any group class on Heroes’ schedule by simply walking in. A cabal of experienced martial arts instructors meld judo, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and wrestling into a confidence-boosting bouillabaisse of butt-kicking techniques that provide an excellent full-body workout and an efficient method of opening pickle jars. Additionally, the top-notch facilities are comprised of 4,700 square feet of cardio machines, weights, mat-lined floor space, a shower, and 20-foot vaulted ceilings.