United Studios of Self Defense

Located on World Famous Fillmore Street in San Francisco, CA.
Karate Classes for All Ages
serving San Francisco since
1995

United Studios of Self Defense San Francisco has been the Bay Area's premier location for Karate and Self Defense instruction for over 31 years.

We're friendly, upbeat, and our training is real—clear structure, high standards, and personal attention. Whether you’re here for your child’s development or your own strength, you’ll find your people here.

SARAH J.
Great dojo! Sensei Collins is world class. Our daughter earned her brown belt after years of devoted, supportive coaching. She started a women's self-defense club at her school as a result of this wonderful education @ USSDSF.
Julian M.
It is a great environment for people of all ages, and would highly recommend it to anyone. Sensei Collins is an amazing instructor and really caters to each individual student's specific needs.
Edwin A.
JT teaches you the skills needed to protect yourself. You’ll be walking out the door feeling more confident and better prepared in defending yourself.
Barb S.
I've been taking self defense classes here for couple months before I needed to move back to Spain and I highly recommend the place and the classes with JT!

Our Classes

With age-specific group classes and personalized training, our students accelerate their growth, build confidence, and easily apply lessons to their daily lives.

Kids Classes

Ages 3.5 - 12
Foundational Training & Support

This Kid's Karate class is focused on age-appropriate material to help support the growth and development of our youngest students at United Studios of Self Defense San Francisco.  

Teens Classes

Ages 13 - 18
Building Grit and Self Awareness

Our Teen's Karate and self defense program is designed build grit and resilience needed for success in our modern world. We to teach our young adults how to de-escalate conflict and keep themselves safe.

Adults Classes

Ages 16 +
A picture of USSD Oceanside Karate Class instructor leading a private karate lesson
Discover Your Power

Our system of Kempo Karate empowers adults to feel confident in their ability to defend themselves while also providing an outlet for daily stress.

Women's Self Defense

Ages 16 +
Walk Confidently, Take Your Space

Join a supportive group of women learning to wield their power with USSD. These Self Defense classes are geared to the unique challenges women face when protecting themselves.

Our Instructing Staff

MEET THE TEAM

Anthony Cordero
Chief Instructor

Master Cordero joined USSD in 2001 after trying various styles. What stood out was USSD’s personal attention, which helped him thrive. His mission is to showcase how USSD adapts to each student’s unique goals and needs. He believes growth comes from flexibility on and off the mat.

sENSEI aNDREW
Senior Instructor

Training 15 years, Sensei Andrew helps students set goals and earn them through consistent work and discipline. His classes are clear, steady, and focused on progress. Fun fact: he’s an avid metal guitarist.

sENSEI aIDAN
Lead Instructor

After 15 years of training, Sensei Aidan recently earned Sandan at the Tokyo Budokan. He’s proud to be a Sensei with autism and connects strongly with students on the spectrum. Off the mat, he’s an actor and dancer with multiple first-place finishes since age 10.

Sensei Aavnika
Instructor

Sensei Aavnika’s eight years of training have shaped her clear, step-by-step teaching style. She loves seeing “aha” moments and building a genuine love of learning. As a dedicated musician, she’s played violin for eight years in a symphonic orchestra and can play nine instruments.

Sempai Lauren
STORM Cadet

One of our newest members to the STORM team, Sempai Lauren bring energy and discipline to all of the classes she helps with. She's an excellent role model for all of our USSD Woodbridge students who aspire to join the STORM team.

Sensei AJ
Instructor

Whether teaching kids the basics or helping adults pursue personal goals— Sensei AJ aims to inspire lasting change. He’s an avid reader and emerging author working on a 15-part series (three books complete). Favorite authors include C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Rick Riordan, and Jeff Smith.

Sempai Lilian
STORM Team

Lilian has trained three years and serves on the STORM Team. She encourages students to try new skills, stay with challenges, and bring their best—helping set a positive tone for younger classmates.

Sensei Lana
Instructor

Sensei Lana has trained eight years and is known for creating a welcoming, caring, atmosphere where students settle in quickly. She balances structure with encouragement and recently earned her Shodan at the Tokyo Budokan. Outside the dojo, she enjoys volleyball and tennis.

Sensei Nick
Lead Instructor

Sensei Nick excels in personal instruction and spotting the details that help his students grow. His coaching is patient, positive, and practical. Fun fact: he crochets—from beanies to dolphins— he even made a seven-foot Christmas tree for the dojo.

Our Instructing Staff

MEET THE TEAM

John Collins 
cHIEF iNSTRUCTOR
5th degree Black Belt

A 5th degree black belt and veteran, John Collins has spent more than 30 years training and teaching at the San Francisco dojo.

Raised on a farm, and needing to perform no matter the conditions; he developed discipline and responsibility.  Trained in Kempo wrestling, karate, kung fu, kickboxing, grappling and security - John brings devoted, real-world experience to every lesson.

Master Collins' approach to self-defense emphasizes situational awareness, de-escalation, and escape.

Join San Francisco

opening hours

Mon - FRI
1:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Saturday
9:00 pm - 3:00 pm
SUNDAY
Closed

ADDRESS & CONTACT

1850 Fillmore St San Francisco, CA 94115
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