Guila Hawaiian Kajukenbo Kickboxing

Originally we thought this was a really nice friendly place, my daughter liked SiBak Mike a lot too. The problem came when we were moving and I came to find out you are only allowed to give notice 2 months before your annual renewal. I had told all the staff well ahead of time that we were going to move and I wasn’t sure if we would continue, yet I was not given the information until after that deadline passed about withdrawing from the program. I was then told that they have the same policy as big gyms and too bad I didn’t know (btw, when I had a gym membership I gave 30 day notice which was standard). Anyway, I was charged two months fee that my daughter didn’t even go, plus I found out that I was being charged more than everyone else the entire year! I think I have to agree with other reviews, this is an okay place if you have money to burn.

My son has been part of the Guila «Family» since about March. I say «family» because this is the feel of the dojo. Upon arrival, Sifu always greets you by name. He knows everyone’s name and doesn’t forget! My son has learned more in the short time he has been here than the entire 4 years at his previous school. Not only do they incorporate fitness into the training, they also incorporate history. I feel that is important so the kids understand the importance of it. My son ‘quizzes’ me to see if I know something about karate. This is proof he is listening. Your child will be safe if they need to be dropped off. I stay with my son due to his asthma. Watching Sifu Dennis Guila interact with the children and earning their respect is something to watch! He is very patient with some of the slower children who perhaps aren’t getting it. When Sifu ‘demonstrates’ a move that the kids are not catching on to, the kids are in ‘awww’. I don’t think they think Sifu can move like that! All of the instructors that are there when Sifu is absent are just as good as Sifu. My son’s favorite is Sibok Mike. He is always joking with the kids and making it a very fun time for them! Do we recommend this place? with 5 stars we do!

I joined Guila’s a few years ago while I was in high school, since I had gone to another Kajukenbo school in San Pablo as a kid and wanted to continue my education. Having been there for about three years, I can honestly say that I had a great experience: the instructors were great, classes were difficult, but gave quite a work out, and Sifu Dennis Guila was an amazing instructor who showed compassion for his martial art, as well as his students.
I had to leave only because I had to attend college, but upon graduating I decided to return even if only for a few months (since I’m applying for full time work). At first as I was nervous about returning, but I was truly welcomed back; Guila’s classes have still retained their Ohana feel to them, even after I’ve been gone for 5 years. I recommend this dojo for anyone who is looking for a quality martial arts or kickboxing school.

Having been associated with this Dojo for over 2 years I would recommend it, especially for parents who want to enroll a child who need self esteem, anger management and more importantly, great role models.