San Diego Combat Academy | East County San Diego Jiu Jitsu - Boxing - Kickboxing - Spring Valley, California

matthew kowalzek

My family and I have been taking classes at American Combat Academy since October 2023 and have had a great experience so far. The owner and primary instructor, Professor Anthony, is very dedicated and knows a lot about MMA and Jiu Jitsu. He also has an amazing staff, Sensei Daniel, Carl and others who join in and help with the classes, as there are multiple classes for all ages and genders on the weekends and in the evenings. Overall, the place is great for all ages.

Our son with his learning difficulties has benefitted enormously from this – in the relatively structured and stimulating environment, along with the engaging classes, his attention and discipline has improved immensely. Our other daughter’s confidence has been raised through the training, which in turn has only helped her excel in other areas.

My wife and I also both take adult MMA and Jiu Jitsu classes with him, and both classes are phenomenal. His instructors make it feel like a fun and supportive atmosphere, which in turn pushes you to work hard to get better. He also gives workshops for women’s self-defense now and then, which are fantastic for building self-confidence and learning to defend yourself.

Justin Wood

Came to San Diego in vacation, I wasn’t expecting to train while here. SDCA had the perfect schedule to get a in a session. When I first arrived I met Tiger he was welcoming, and put all my anxiety at ease. He showed me around and let me tell you, this is a top notch club full of great people. I am 43 yr old white belt, I’ve been training Jiu jitsu for a year out of all the gyms I’ve visited this is my favorite. Andy is next level in grappling and coaching, gave me great pointers and let me work. Everyone was easy going and great guys. Excellent rolls, with sound Jiu jitsu. I wish I could train there more. Highly recommend to anyone the lives here or visiting.
This next part of my review is one year later after the above review. I am in San Diego visiting family again, and planned a drop in to SDCA on this trip. Went to the Sunday class. Once again I was blown away. This time it was a structured class. Warm ups, technique, rolling. The warms ups were on point. Jiu jitsu specific movements. Very fundamental and purposeful. Technique was spot on too. Perfect amount of information along with good drilling. Definitely opened up my eyes. Coach Tony gave me plenty of attention. Super knowledae, patient, easy to understand and grasp the concepts. The students were great too. Good rolls and good times. I for sure am coming back.

Abdulla Al Sudany

I started training here about a year ago and from day one everyone has been just amazing. The gym has awesome amenities for all their martial arts, the coaches are world class at what they do, and the atmosphere is great. Highly recommend this gym weather you’re a professional martial artist or if you’re just looking for a great new hobby for you and your family

Patrick Hall

This is the place!!

The team here is incredible and dedicated to everyone’s growth. I’m being motivated by watching elite athletes continually climb in their abilities. I also have been entirely welcomed as a beginner. I came in with no fighting experience and was well out of shape starting my membership. San Diego Combat Academy is a great place for all ability levels. Very inclusive and encouraging.

I’d trained with others for ultra sports in the past and this is different. The mindset here is real, everyone is here to get stronger. They’re also here for each other. I know that if I commit here, I’ll find versions of myself I didn’t know I were possible.

I’ve worked with Tony, Gordon, Nick, and Criss and they are SOLID! I’ve witnessed Tiger, Prince, Andy, Nadine, and the the others create an awesome atmosphere that I want to keep coming back to.

Thankful for the growth I’ve already experienced here!

Kevin Hart's Stunt Double

Been training BJJ under coach Andy for 6 months at this location. Generally always a good amount of mat space, and decent amount of weights/conditioning equipment. Everyone seems to have a great attitude and willingness to help each other progress. Only thing missing here is a water fountain to refill your bottle.

Nate Fort

I had been bugged to try this gym out for awhile. Finally I accepted and dropped in for a class. I've now been a member for over 3 years. They have the best staff and training environment. Everyone remembers your name and treats you like family. I've watched so many people walk through the door and achieve their goals, Whether is was weight loss or competing at a high level. I highly recommend!

Sarah Appleman

I have been looking for a gym like this for years. Great workouts and classes by amazing trainers or who take pride in what they do. They actually care about you achieving your goals. I have lost weight and toned up in just a few months. My son is currently taking private boxing lessons and his confidence and coordination has soared. My family and I are lifetime members!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Carlos Bielma

I have been training here for the past 2 years in their 10th Planet system of Jiu Jitsu. I have lost up to 27 pounds, gained a lot of confidence, and my asthma has improved significantly!! I've also made some of the best friends a person can ask for here, it really is a family vibe. And women are not excluded, we have had some classes where the women actually outnumbered the men. Quality gym, instruction and staff. Top tier instruction without the top tier price.