The Israeli Martial Arts Academy

Our preteen kids (one boy, one girl) have been going to The Israeli Martial Arts Academy for 3 ½ years, and they love it. We drive all the way from Ventura (usually) twice a week. If this wasn’t a top notch learning experience, believe me, we would have stopped going long ago and found something MUCH closer. This speaks volumes to the quality of instruction, and the level of caring Hezi and his staff have for the students. Hezi is a role model for the kids, and takes a true interest in his students’ lives and well being.
Hisardut Ju Jitsu, the discipline this gym teaches, is a combination of ju jitsu, karate, and judo. It is based on REAL LIFE self defense. It is heavy on the martial, light on the art. No flowing movements here. Students must earn their belts; This isn’t a «take more dough» gym. Kids (and adults) learn how to avoid a fight, but protect themselves as necessary. This includes disarming an attacker with a bat/​stick, knife, as well as a gun (rubber implements used in class, of course). This isn’t just a good gym workout, they are truly learning life skills to protect themselves. Super controlled and safe environment, and the kids get along and always support each other.

The Israeli Martial Arts Academy has changed my life and if you’re ready to get into great shape, sweat and learn some real self defense techniques, then it can change your life too. I’ve been training here for almost four years and it’s not only my gym but my home. I’m very proud to be a part of the DSJJ family. OSS!

This place is amazing. Hezi created not just another martial arts school. It feels more like a family, a brotherhood (or sisterhood) of fighters. At the same time the instruction is top-​notch and you will be working very hard. My son has been coming here for over two years. He went from a chubby unsure boy to a handsome and confident teenager. So in addition to getting a great workout, learning valuable self-​defense skills and enjoying a great environment you will also look good!

If you like to leave your ego at the door, train and spare hard with a great group of friends and learn from a 5^th degree instructor trained in the Israeli Special Forces then this is your place. I started 2 years ago when I was 49 years old and love every minute. Hezi dedicates himself to every single person in the class and will make you both physically and mentally stronger than you can imagine. This is not a martial arts class; this is a way of life. There are many extra classes at the firing range, beach, parks and even tournaments. My two kids who are 6 and 8 also train here so they can learn the best techniques to keep them safe and build their confidence. Come join us for a class!

I would give many more starts if I could.
We were looking for martial arts for so long until we found Hezi’s place.
This place is professional by all means.
Eithan, the office manager, is welcoming and very patient with all of our needs.
After the first trial, my 5 y old son loved it and was very happy to start. For some reason, when we started the actual practice, my son refused to join and participate. Wanted to go home and. «No karate, period!».
Hezi, the owner, pooled him aside. And I swear, I do not know until now what was the deal, but my son walked onto the mat area, and that’s it! He LOVES it! He can’t wait for the practice to come.
Highly recommended!!!

The owner and head instructor, Hezi, is a more then a top-​tiered instructor in terms of teaching students the essentials of practical self defense in today’s modern world. He is also a life coach and an extremely positive role model for children whereby emphasizing commitment, personal responsibility, honor, respect, and self confidence.
I could not think of another instructor that I want training my son. This gym is more than a gym; it is place where children can learn to become responsible and confident adults.

I am very impressed with the high level of training I am receiving at the Israeli Martial Arts Academy. The staff is highly qualified and are very quick to help me with all my questions on the level of training that I need. I would highly recommend this class to anyone who wants to learn self defense training.

I have taken two tactical shooting seminars here and they were FANTASTIC! Hezi is an amazing teacher. You can tell he genuinely cares about teaching others how to safely operate firearms. He ensures safety above all else and teaches necessary skills for both beginning and advanced shooters. I loved the fact that he went through possible real-​life scenarios and showed us exactly how to handle them. He places you directly in the hypothetical situation instead of just talking about it. As a hands on learner, this experience was invaluable. I learned so much and had such an amazing time! I can’t wait to go back for another one!

I’ve been a member for almost a year now. It’s truly a family like atmosphere. This was probably the third gym I tried, and from day one everyone was so friendly and supportive. Not being one of the most athletic people Hezi and his crew have always inspired me to push hard every class and at the same time be proud of what is being achieved.
I honestly believe this is a place for anyone at any level to come. You build confidence, develop a drive to push yourself, and learn real world self-​defense. If you’re not sure just try one class and you’ll know exactly what I mean.

What a great institution! The kids are eager to go again and again. The instructors are top notch and they are all about discipline, building self esteem, teaching self defense.

Hezi is the consummate professional and fantastic with kids of all ages. Very worthwhile skills to learn.

Hezi is a great teacher! Love the family environment and an a amazing workout! I highly recommend!

This place is all about confidence, self esteem, self defense, attitude, discipline, respect and combat!
Young kids are going in spoiled, nagging, whining and are transformed in no time to children who respect themselves, respect each other, competitive and results driven.
It’s another way for them to protect themselves from bullies at school and get respected by others for the values they represent.
It’s just awesome to see them change.
Their instructor Hezi is amazing.
Keep kicking ass guys!

If you are looking for a place that will change your kids life and yours– you found it!
There will be no nonsense when you go on the mattres, and no kidding around. You or your child are there to learn actual and practical ways to defend yourself, get in shape, follow what you are instructed, and learn to respect your friends and instructor.
Hezi is amazing with the kids, full of patience, and respect, covered with roughness they all adore.
The system being tought has proven itself in many cases around the world, and once you try it– you’ll see how effective it is.
My Kids Love It!!! And I’m considaring joining the Academy as well!
I’ll recommend it to anyone who is serious about martial arts.

The Israeli Martial Arts Academy is one of the best martial arts studio around.
Hezi is the owner and instructor. He is fantastic with the children and they all respect, admire and listen to his words.

This great academy is the best. Hezi is great with my son as well as the other kids. I trust that my son benefits exceptionaly well from the structured classes. It is fun and exciting. The program is practical defensive skills. Not just breaking boards or the toughest king of the mat.
Plenty of room for the parents to sit. Large television to view a live feed from the mat.
Can’t wait for my youngest to join. Apparently there is not a big demand for 1 year old UFC fighters regardless how many times I ask.

Simply the best! Hezi is an amazing teacher and is more than qualified. The girls I babysit love it here. They never want to leave.

The system taught here is derived from many different systems, and is always evolving and adapting. This system is not a sport. This is a combat system, proven in combat, taught by an elite soldier. Therefore, it is very demanding physically and mentally. If you are an intelligent, passionate, respectful person looking to make the world around you a safer place, then you should come see what we do. You will not be disappointed!

This is what you need for a child who wants to do martial arts. Maximum range of techniques from karate to jiu jitsu. Hezi is great coach focused on transfer of his knowledge and his invaluable experience to his students!