AOS is a great school for anyone who wants to feel confident in being able to defend themselves in a hairy situation! I personally get bored at gyms and this has been a great way to get in shape and learn a new skill at the same time. All the instructors are very knowledgeable, kind and respectful. Coach David is great at explaining and breaking down techniques so they’re easy to understand. I’ve been training for about six months and I feel stronger than ever. Do it.

Very good training and fun atmosphere. Hard work but I look forward to the training.

Coach Dave & Barrett & Jeremy are exceptional at explaining everything & the why’s behind them. Very patient! Super encouraging & make classes fun, as well as training from a practical & real life approach.

I absolutely love AOS! I came in with zero experience which was intimidating to start out. Coach David and his team all make you feel welcome with no judgement. They are all extremely experienced and proficient, while being able to break things down and explain them very clearly. You will be challenged physically and mentally but have a ton of fun in the process!! You will get individual instruction during class and they have the option for private lessons as well. For me this is so much more than just a self defense class, its about community and finding what you are capable of. Dont wait come see for your self I highly recommend!

Great school with excellent well rounded instructors. I highly recommend AOS for people of any age, gender or skill level.

This is a wonderful and fun gym for every skill level. I entered with a little Krav background and no boxing or grappling experience. The coaches are organized and professional and teach you all the basics. The gym bases their skill focus on self defense research and conflict probabilities. I get a solid cardio workout, and then there these little wins along the way, like successfully getting out of a side mount or landing a really good kick. I’ve been able to keep the pounds off all pandemic and put on some muscle as well. Yeah, I could be flipping tires over at a CrossFit for the same price… but for what purpose? While I joined for general fitness and interest in martial arts, as a woman, I’m also practicing self defense strategies such as verbal and physical deescalation, escape, and fight strategies for larger opponents. Came for the fitness, stayed for the practice!

I started with the goal of learning self defense. But I received friendship and physical conditioning too. The trifecta. Thanks.

First off, the instructors for the kids classes are very awesome! When my son first started about a year ago there were about 8 kids. Now there are anywhere from 14-20 kids participating by friends inviting them to join.My son loves that he is learning all the basic and advanced skills of Krav Maga- Self Defense. He likes the challenge of learning new things!The instructors are awesome for the kids and the adult classes as well. I have 5 family members that are involved and love the challenge!I would definitely recommend this place to anyone!Thanks again to the awesome coaches.

Coach David and the Krav Maga Community - KRAV KIDS are amazing! Since joining my daughter is goal setting, problem solving and confident. Her self esteem, desire to learn, and mindfulness has increased exponentially! We can’t thank this awesome program enough!

Referred to this place by a friend, for my son. The instructors are great. The kids have fun and listen. Awesome job! Highly recommend it.

The class for kids has been wonderful for our boys. Theyre in better shape and their focus and discipline is improving every. Coaches David and Barrett keep the class fun but still enforce the rules. I like how they break down the techniques into understandable segments and change it around every month to keep it interesting. Highly recommended!!

I have been told most of my life that I live in a little love bubble, that my world of sunshine and butterflies is not the real world. I just went about my life not paying much attention to the comments until now. More recently something shifted. I had an awakening that slammed me back down to earth like Ive never felt before. I had to face some terrifying realizations and have been on a discovery journey about what it truly means to feel safe, protected, and empowered.Krav Maga is practical, not just for show and its discipline. In cases where our little love bubbles that take so much work to maintain are threatened by disrespect and dishonor I want to make sure I am well equipped to protect the ultimate gift weve been given - life. At least if presented with unexpected and dangerous situations, I could rest assured knowing I did all I could to protect myself and my loved ones.In the short time Ive been training (a couple months), I have never felt more empowered. Since starting at Art of Survival Krav Maga with David and Barrett coaching, I am discovering not only my hidden physical strength but developing more mental toughness and overall awareness of the world around me.I wondered if Id be intimidated, but the coaches here break down movements in such a way that make it easy and they are all super attentive, making sure your form and movements are correct. I really appreciate that they dont just let it slide or overlook if you are doing something incorrectly. Everyone is friendly and approachable also.I tried it out for a couple months to start. I instantly became hooked and go as often as my schedule allows. I signed up for the year and it was an easy decision to make. Oh, and parking is easy!Check it out, you wont be disappointed.

A new home! I was really intimidated to ever try this kind of martial art, only because my comfort zone has always been Muay Thai kickboxing. However, I’ve found a lot of overlapping techniques that go hand in hand my first free class (the fundamentals one). I had to sign up ASAP, because the learning environment is so welcoming. I absolutely love how they break down each and every step, so that everything makes perfect sense. I even got a free T Shirt, so I’m happy about that! I would say this is a big step for me to further advance in my knowledge of self defense.

Attending this school went from something to get me out of the house to something I’m passionate about. The classes are structured around real world situations and applicable to everyday life. All the other students feel more like family than random faces and the coaches are not only knowledgeable but very easy to connect with. Joining was one of the best decisions I’ve made and I recommend it to anyone thinking of how to defend themselves or their family.

I started attending classes 6 months ago at 60 I was sure I was too old for this work out. I went and received so much personal support from David and Barrett, the best coaches. All classes will leave you feeling exhausted, sweaty, challenged and super proud of your accomplishments. After a little rest your excited and looking forward to your next workout. Don’t hesitate to try coming to AOS you will be welcomed supported and encouraged like no other gym. If you come regularly you will see amazing results.

The classes at Art of Survival are both interesting and challenging. David is an awesome instructor, he is helpful, motivating and patient. Since I am a beginner he takes the time to show me the correct way to do the drills so I dont hurt myself or my training partner. He also works with the fact that I have a foot injury. Beyond the instructors, youll find the people youre training with friendly and supportive and all around awesome. People with more experience have no issues pairing with a novice and will help coach. I recommend this studio to anyone looking for practical self defense, fitness, and self improvement.

This is an outstanding place, the instructors are awesome and very knowledgeable, excellent with kids.the great thing about Krav Maga is that you start learning real-life skills immediately.The place has a family feel to it. It is clean, everyone is friendly, and its well-organized.

Ive trained Krav Maga at 2 other locations and AOS seems the most geared toward actual street application. David, the instructor, pays personal attention to each individual so you dont feel just like another number. He makes corrections and gives advice and really cares about personal growth of each of his students. Its nice having a good mix of Men and Women training partners so the fight scenarios are more realistic. Krav Maga is great for Self Defense. Everyone should give it a try.

Training with AOS has had a huge impact on my life. I now feel stronger, more confide, and in the best shape of my life. I can not thank Coach Dave and his staff enough.

I had my first experience with Krav Maga not too long ago. David made an hour long session seem like fifteen minutes. He worked closely with us and in that time was able to determine what each of our weak points were and how to correct them with practice. He is an excellent instructor and makes the learning experience an event to look forward to. I hope to return again soon.Thank you David.

I take the trolley to get around San Diego and it can be kinda scary, especially night. I would like to learn how to fight and defend myself so that I can feel confident walking home at night. Also, learning how to fight and be tough is a lot of fun and a great work out. People see me as a sweet, weak girl but I would love to surprise people with my fighting skills one day.Dave has been great at teaching us some basics of Krav Maga. He goes around the room to make sure we have proper form and is very encouraging. Ive really enjoyed the class so far and look forward to learning more!

Been going here for almost a month and a half and have not been disappointed. Really easy to catch on, instructors are great about teaching form and new techniques, and the people that train here are super welcoming. Price is great compared to other krav studios. Really recommend for anyone interested in defending themselves with practical self defense fighting.

Ill try to list all the reasons I love this place without writing an entire essay (in no particular order)1. The instructors are great!!!2. Welcoming and accepting atmosphere3. All classes end up being a hard workout4. All fitness levels are welcome. So as a beginner (were Im at) you get to observe students with more experience, without feeling like youre holding other students back.5. Krav Maga teaches you how to defend yourself in a real life scenario.6. Muay Thai gives you a great workout and develops your strength and technique for punches and kicks.7. Great locationI want to expand on how the instructors are great. First of all, you can tell that they are passionate about the sport and just want to share their knowledge. Both instructors (Dave for Krav Maga and Zac for Muay Thai) really focus on making sure every student gets the technique down right. This helps you avoid building any bad habits. They allocate time to give every student individual attention during the classes and will slow things down for you if you have any questions or arent getting a particular technique. They also push you to add more fluidity and speed to your movements once you understand a technique. In other words, theyll push you out of your comfort zone a bit so you can actually become a better student/fighter.I also want to highlight that this is a really welcoming gym. I never felt uncomfortable being a girl in a male-dominated sport. Partly because Wendy (co-owner) is almost always either at the front desk or participating in the classes and because the students are never trying to show off. Everyone is there to learn and they respect anyone is showing up and putting an honest effort.Check it out. First class is FREE! :)

After researching several Krav Maga schools online, my husband came across Art of Survival. This school has surpassed our expectations of real-life, USEFUL self-defense. David, our instructor will sometimes research events he has seen on the news and creates a class on how to defend against those situations. I walk away with the knowledge and confidence that makes me aware of how to avoid situations and possibly how to defend against them. This school is run by professionals who think outside the box and are very helpful on building technique and knowledge. I would HIGHLY recommend the Art of Survival for everyone!

Instructor Dave is really knowledgeable and particularly for beginners he makes it easy for you to learn self-defense and get you back into shape. Group settings are great meeting new people and much better than a boring workout at the gym alone. The AOS location is right off highway 8 and a stress-free friendly environment makes working out enjoyable.

Cant say enough good things about AOS and the Instructors there. Always patient and and quick to help. The room can be full and you still feel like youre getting personal attention. Ive been going for about two months now and am slowing increasing my attendance per week. I started due to some recent anxiety issues and its been a great way to burn that extra energy in a constructive way. It gives you a breadth of new skillsets that just add another dimension to who you are.

Theyre Just perfect nothing to say..I was able to improve my striking in one month of practicing. thats amaizing!!!! I suggest anyone to go there. It is the place to be.

Art of Survival (AOS) provides a welcoming and nourishing environment to learn and practice Krav Maga. Both instructors, David and Barrett, effectively train every individual regardless of skill level or strength. There are opportunities to attend classes for Krav Maga, DVRT (sandbag training), and seminars that all offer the tools and techniques to work on being the sharpest version of yourself. AOS can activate your life by showing you how to fight for it in various situations. Anyone and everyone that joins AOS becomes a part of this fiery family. Just try one class and you’ll see what I mean.

I had have nothing but positive experiences at AOS. I have been training with Dave from the beginning & he does not disappoint. He truly cares about all of his students & makes sure that everyone gets a great training. It shows thru the students because everyone is always willing to help each other out. Whenever Dave teaches a technique, he breaks it down slowly & explains why its done a certain way & why it is effective. If youre looking for a great place to learn self defense, this is the place. Also you get an added bonus of a great workout as well.

I have been with AOS for just about one year now. I began with just a couple of classes a week and now generally go four days a week for two hours each, sometimes more.In that time I managed to receive a yellow belt and have aspirations to go higher. At sixty years old this has been very inspiring. My overall health has improved dramatically starting with a thirty pound plus reduction in weight. I’ve gained muscle mass and stamina which really powers me through my workday.I can’t thank the staff at AOS enough for positively changing my life. Best workout ever!

This place is great. Top notch instructors, clean facility, great lessons that give real life defense situations while strengthening your core and cardio. Highly recommended.

UPDATE: Heres the fifth star (see below). Also I need to add that the Krav Maga class at AOS was the first place (except my house for a coffee) I went as a US citizen; almost directly after the end of my ceremony, overly caffeinated and really tired. It was exactly the kind of kicks I wanted to decompress and to celebrate.Original Review: I want to give 5 stars but then people may think this school bought my review. Also I believe in leaving something dangling to motivate continuous improvement (even though I cant see how)Thats what this school is doing for me, in addition to providing the instruction and environment that supports each individual trainee/student to continuously progress.A note on the work with children and young adults:The instructors work with children and youth, one on one or in the youth classes, is such a perfect blend of competence, compassion, professionalism, and playfulness.Maybe because of my own work with children, especially one on one work with young individuals who need more customized care and support, not to mention in so many ways being one of those kids myself, I know how much it takes to do that and what an incredible change it can make for a young person.And as I can tell and know from my classmates, these classes and the instructors enables those of any age to experience such changes.

Great class, I didnt know what to expect when I decided to try Krav Maga but Dave is an awesome instructor with a great school. The culture and people you work with will win you over, it won me over! Thanks for everything!

In October of 2017 I joined AOS. The first few months where interesting in regards to my health issues, but everyone there couldnt have been more supportive or caring. David and Barrett never ask you to do more then you can, but do encourage you to push yourself and breach your comfort-zone.Everyone there has helped me so much in so many different ways. Theyve helped me with my confidence, my past harassment, assault and abuse, and my health, both mentally and physically.When I first started out I never expected AOS to become my second home, for everyone there to become family, or to earn a belt, but they all happened.I could not more highly recommend a martial arts studio.You dont just join a gym, you become part of a family.

My Daughter loves taking classes here! The Instructors are great with kids.

My almost-eight-year-old daughter has been happily attending youth Krav Maga classes at Art of Survival for about two months now and she is LOVING it!Her coaches (David and Barrett) are experts at keeping the kids in line, instructing them to use correct techniques and keeping the right form without being overly strict. There are consequences when the kids in class don’t apply themselves or break basic rules, and the kids rarely complain when they have to stay late to complete extra burpees or sit-ups, because they were given warnings and there was ample opportunity for each kid to turn it around before they were again called out and given more physical work to do when the other kids are free to go home. These Krav Maga coaches are patient, kind and yet still remain badasses.I honestly appreciate the in-class lessons (and frequent reviewing!) of what constitutes bullying (physical AND verbal) and how the kids should defend themselves against physical bullying when the first few (non-physical) options arent working. My daughter hasnt been bullied, but Im so much more confident that she will be able to handle herself if/when she is and hopefully wont ever, EVER be a mean girl herself.I feel like my daughter is learning a ton about self-control, responsibility and respect without being lectured, which is exactly what I was hoping would happen, but I expected it to take much longer than it has! (And, of course, the physical exertion is great for her, too!)My only reason for deducting a star is that the pricing is set up for an unlimited number of classes (Youth Krav Maga is available every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday) and unfortunately I dont have my daughter two of those three days after school due to divorce and visitation with her dad.Our daughter is with her dad those days until 7pm and I feel like we are paying for at least eight classes a month she cant attend because of visitation I cant change. My ex and I are working to make a compromise in which I can at least take her to class one Monday a month in addition to every Thursday, but I still would be so grateful if there was an alternate payment option for kids who can only make it to class once weekly. (There is a per-class option to pay, but that is usually the same or more than the monthly unlimited plan.) As a divorced mama, these classes are really out of my price range, but we are making sacrifices so my girl can learn from the best. (If there was a way to pay for once weekly classes, I would be much less stressed!)tl;dr: This has been an awesome experience for my daughter thus far and we intend to continue classes as long as she is loving it like this. I truly have only great things to say about Art of Survival!

Great school focused on prevention of attacks, self defense, and bettering the community. AOS covers groundwork and striking in addition to traditional Krav Maga. There are DVRT sandbag classes as well if a fitness goal is in mind. I feel safer because of what I’ve learned from Dave and Barrett at Art of Survival. Check it out, it might save your life.

If you’re looking to start your new year with fitness goals, you’ve come to the right place and here’s why:Athletic Requirements: None required, but usefulYou really don’t need any athletic background to join AOS, the instructors teach beginners and advanced students in a manner that doesn’t make anyone feel excluded or bored at all. I personally have experience with several sports, yoga, and dance but not self-defense. I feel the same satisfaction at AOS that I felt from my previous experiences, but ALL IN ONE! Krav is an interdisciplinary martial art that uses techniques from various styles of boxing, wrestling, and traditional martial arts. Through the classes striking, grappling, fundamentals, essentials, and DVRT, you learn SO MUCH and no previous experience is needed to feel that you’re already improving.Benefits:-adrenaline rush, important skill development, team building, better muscular and cardiovascular endurance, eagerness to work outI am not someone who enjoys going to the gym and ever since I stopped dancing and playing sports, I hadn’t found any form of fitness that kept me engaged or eager. For me, the moves in striking and grappling feel like an intuitive choreography that gets great constructive feedback from other students and instructors to improve and master the skill. I feel like I am part of a team that is collectively working towards the same goal and building each other up, as one would in a sport. Warm-ups, cool-downs, and some yoga influenced stretches are incorporated in each class, so I really get a bit of everything that I was looking for. I leave every class feeling accomplished, fatigued, and proud and it’s only been one month of consistent classes for me to feel and look more toned than ever before.Program expectations and Instructors:The instructors set up the program with a reward and progress system. For coming to class among other things, students receive points that can be cached in for rewards. A card is given to each student to track their progress and skill mastery. By doing this, it gives a desire to keep wanting to come back and achieve those goals. Even without the reward system, the classes are so fun, and you learn so much that you want to attend more and practice anyway. If you miss a few classes, nobody makes you feel bad and it’s quite easy to catch up and get back to speed. The instructors are good at pairing you with partners that are similar to your level and teaching the moves with detailed specificity along with explanations of when/how/why those specifications are useful and important. The class timings are also flexible to work with anyone’s schedule, an added convenience.Recommendation:I highly recommend AOS because whatever you are looking for in a fitness program, its likely that you will find satisfaction AND results here. If you’re reluctant, just do a trial day, its free and there is nothing to lose, just gain. If you’re shy or nervous, bring a partner! If you’re ready, then take advantage of the holiday special sale (that’s how I started and it’s been *amazing*).

After trying out a few different Krav Maga classes in the area I finally settled in on AOS. The staff at AOS are professional, welcoming and were very prompt to answer any and every question I had. The instructors (David and Tony) are very knowledgeable and passionate about teaching and guiding everyone who trains there whether you are new to training or are a regular. They make classes fun while still pushing their students to fulfill their true potential. I highly recommend this place if you are looking to learn a cool self-defense system or want to stay active and fit! I am not a big cardio guy but you get a really good workout in while learning a practical skill that may some day save your life! Totally worth it and I hate missing a single class so try it out for yourself...you wont be disappointed.

I joined A.O.S. Krav Maga about 8 months ago. I just recently leveled up and earned my Practitioner patch in the KMG (Krav Maga Global) community. All with knowledge and techniques taught to me by the Instructor Dave Davis. The level of self confidence Ive gained, even at the practitioner level, has changed my life dramatically. I go into any situation, mental or physical, with such determination and knowing I can walk away the victor. The environment of the school is inviting, open minded and non judgmental. I never felt looked down upon or foolish for learning or asking questions. Signing up with A.O.S. was one of the best choices I ever made.

Art of survival is really cool because the instructor gets to the point of how to take someone down and Ive done Kung Fu but i was just learning punches for 2 weeks .Plus Art Of Survival gives a really good workout.

I have been training at this gym for over a year and a half now. I have previous martial arts experience since I was six (doing Kung Fu, Aam Ka Jutsu, Jiu Jitsu, High School Wrestling, and Kickboxing). This school offers the best that I have experienced.Not only is this self-defense system practical and efficient, but they offer great fitness courses, and impressive striking and grappling classes. The instructors are all incredibly knowledgeable and have improved my sport combat fighting alongside my general self-defense and self-awareness.Furthermore, they all constantly seek to improve their own capabilities, studying outside of their own school, to come back and offer more to the gym. Since I have started, they have added DVRT for functional fitness, CSW for effective grappling, and STX Kickboxing for additional striking options. Theyre not stuck on any singular system, but build on every style and art that has practical solutions for real world problems.The school builds up their students in a positive manner, so that they always progress and learn to use the techniques in a truly functional manner. So, when stress and adrenaline surge through the body, students are still capable of performing the basic self-defense techniques necessary to survive hostile conflicts.Also, the students that go here become like a family: we care about each other and make certain that we are all practicing and progressing to the best of our abilities. I have made wonderful friends here that inspire and encourage me to constantly improve.I have so much more faith in my self-defense and martial arts now than I ever did before thanks to AOS.

Great martial arts program, the instructors really know their stuff and teach you on a personal level. Dave, the owner and krav maga instructor, is a great teacher.The new muay thai program they offer is great as well. Zack is a beast and ensures you learn your stuff before moving on to the next lesson. Come here if you really want to learn and improve your fighting skills.

I have been learning Krav Maga with David for a while now, and it has been such a great experience, he is a great instructor and cares a lot about his students learning and growth. To the point that now AOS offers Muay Thai classes as well, and they are taught by a Pro Fighter, Zac Savage (Google his name to see some of his amazing fights). Muay Thai not only has improved my striking skills, but also has given me a full arsenal of useful moves, kicks, knees and elbows, that complement really good with Krav Maga. Both, Krav Maga and Muay Thai are amazing classes, taught by professional individuals in their filed and that really make sure you learn it! Strongly recommend this school to anyone looking for quality training, flexible hours and reasonable price

Having a career that makes me go to my clients homes, I felt unsafe making appointments during the night time or in dangerous neighborhoods. Once I tried out in AOS, I realized that this could easily be waved into my life. I am usually seen as weak, or afraid of pain, and after a couple of weeks of training, my instructors see me as a future P1 (The first rank in Krav maga). I have learned to deal in stressful situations, to not give up even when I am really tired, and have grown accustomed to physical pain. (When before, one accidental hit would ruin my day!).What I love the most, is the care that the instructors have. They understand your level, and do not give you what you cant handle. They always push you to do your best, and are very attentive at correcting your technique, so you can learn it the right way, the first time. Thank you AOS, for bringing security and empowerment to many.

For years, my husband and I have been searching for a quality, reasonably priced, practical, effective (and convenient) place for my teenagers to learn martial arts/self-defense/tactical thinking for real-world situations.Ive spent money on the karate uniforms, Ive polled friends about where they took their kids to no satisfactory result, in addition, I was realistic about how silly a sticker from a boxing club would look on my minivan.I spotted Art of Survival at breakfast one morning and I knew wed found a great possibility to meet all of our criteria. I emailed the owner, David, right away and once we figured out a date for a trial week, my teenagers were there.MY TEENS LOVE AoS, even got a friend to join. Here is why:1) Everyone is welcome and treated equally.2) David and his wife very much want to help people NOT BECOME VICTIMS.3) Feedback is given individually throughout class and afterwards.4) My teens dont notice that they are youngest in the class, they simply recognize that they can learn from not just the instructors, but the fellow students.Theyre not intimidated, theyre energized (even when doing HIIT in between taking strikes).5) They have FUN, even when theyre pushing their fitness limits (and they PUSH their fitness limits here, even though theyre both club soccer players who do regular conditioning).6) They have quickly learned street skills, mindfulness and strategy, and appropriate reactions (I hope they never have to use), because someone they respect greatly is telling them, instead of Mom & Dad.7) Krav Maga is not just one discipline, other philosophies are incorporated. Survival takes a lot more than a good right hook. I can lecture my teens about scanning your surroundings all I want, but when David is telling my tend-to-think-they-know-more-than-they-do teens how to be aware in public, it clicks.8) I sleep a little bit better at night.Im so glad we found AoS.

Friendly environment, good classes, if you live in The area and want to learn self defense and get a great workout come and check it out you get a free class :)

Ive been doing krav maga here for a few months now and I really enjoy the experience. The best part for me is that the instructor tailors the class to who shows up that day, taking into consideration their level of experience and what they like (or need) to work on. He also spends a lot of time providing direct feedback so you know youre learning the technique correctly.The class is great for those who want to learn how to protect themselves in a real fight (or other dangerous situations), since you learn everything from basic punching/kicking to how to defend yourself from someone bigger than you or from multiple people. Its also great for those who want to expand their skill set. I trained in muay thai for 18 months at another gym and krav has helped me take skills meant for the ring and apply them to real-world situations. Ive learned so many new techniques, all of which are useful in a real life situation.Another thing I loved is that there is no pressure to commit. When I signed up for muay thai, I was made to buy so much equipment (I barely used) for the ring that I felt I had to stay with it for a while to get my moneys worth. The owners here are more relaxed and let you decide if you need the gear as well as what type of payment plan you are comfortable with (per class, month-to-month, or six month plan). They also provide you with the option to get on track to rank up, but again, this is your decision and you never feel penalized because youd rather just come for a good workout.

Real-life, applicaple self-defense taught here. From bad situations & predicaments to striking, grappling, & survival-- its covered at this gym.