United Studios of Self Defense

Located on World Famous Fillmore Street in San Francisco, CA.
USSD San Francisco Karate Students at the Giants game
Teen self defense students at USSD San Francisco
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 +
Adult Self Defense Classes in San Francisco
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 +
women's Self Defense Classes in San Francisco
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

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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