SwiftKick Martial Arts

Fair warning, I have not attended SKMA since approximately 2015-2016 timeframe, but I highly doubt anything I'm about to say has changed.

I started with SKMA back when it all began as a side hustle for Mr. Cowell as he was (I believe) a student at SDSU. In fact, we originally were using a church for class prior to SKMA moving into their current locations. I trained underneath Brian Cowell for approximately 7-8 years.

There are no better boxing coaches or applied martial arts coaches, than Mr. Cowell himself. I can firmly attest to that having now lived all across the world and having avidly boxed in a few other locations inside this country and out.

Mr. Cowell and his staff have a very solid history of being overtly friendly, extremely experienced, very diligent and very dedicated to Martial Arts as both a training regime and as a lifestyle.
Martial Arts is not only a great means to get into shape, but when applied more mentally it creates a mindset which few hurdles in this world can stop.

Every aspect of my life, and the quality of person I am today, is based in the foundation that SwiftKick Martial Arts, and Brian Cowell himself, instilled in me through years of training approaching a decade ago.
If that is not a testament to a very worth wild investment, I don't believe I know what is.

In terms of Martial Arts training and capability. Due my job, which works in the Anti Terrorism field, there have been more occasions than I have fingers and toes where I have had to rely on the techniques and skills I acquired through years of training from SKMA. It just works. Hopefully there is never a time to need to resort to violence. BUT.. if there is ever a time where you must, for the purpose of self defense, there is no greater means to prepare yourself.

Did y'all know Bernard "Swiftkick" Robinson is a 3-time World Kickboxing Champion? His EXPERT TRAINERS are unmatched. Coach, Mike Page, has been training my son (privates) for 3+ years - no head-shots, ever. My son has ADD, so this left-right brain training is, essential. Bonus, Coach Mike is a true guide to this teenager.
~Dawn I Aragon, PhD
...btw - I teach a free community class, every Saturday, 9am. All Levels, and the bodies you have, are welcome. Bernard donates this space, for the community.

My kids have been coming here for years and have attended both locations and love it. 100% recommend.

We did not join this studio/ gym but I do want to commend the introduction and communication when going through the trial process.

I originally identified this studio through a social media ad and then saw their videos, fbook, instagram, etc. I submitted the inquiry online and received prompt, courteous and clear communications from Sarah, New Members Coordinator, Lead Instructor, Carlsbad. We didn't have the pleasure of meeting Sarah in person but I appreciated her quick responses and ease to schedule our first introduction to the studio.

Within a week, we had the opportunity to come by for a Saturday trial class at the Rancho Bernardo location. There are two studios: Rancho Bernardo and Carlsbad. The Rancho Bernardo one is near the fire house/ Webb Park (heading toward the library) and conveniently located in a shopping plaza. Our kiddos were in the 4-6 age range and they have no martial arts training or background (besides watching ninjago and thinking ninjas are super cool). They had a blast in class.

Coach Chandler (?) was supported by some older volunteer students and other coaches. I was impressed with the teacher to student ratio, cleanliness of the studio, and the firm but loving direction provided. For example, I very much liked that the lead coach explained clearly to the young kids that screaming is not acceptable when saying "Yes Coach!" The instruction was easy to understand for the young kiddos. And he meant what he said. When one kid blatantly stepped out of line (class clown of the hour), Coach Chandler firmly and politely had the kid sit out the fun activity and then took the time to speak with the kid one-on-one and explain what the kid had done wrong. It was very impressive and well executed.

We aren't familiar with martial arts in general but they explained they are a type of martial arts that is not form based (like Tae Kwon Do). They lean on many of the similar concepts but it's more defense instruction (how to actually execute a kick or punch properly so that a child can learn to protect themselves). I thought that was interesting to learn. The backbone to their program is the mindset they want to cultivate with young kids. They have a very well thought out program and in fact the first paper they gave us states: "We begin the Martial Art training journey not with punches and kicks, but with central lessons called Tenets." I REALLY liked this concept. They integrate parents into the learning process and help set attainable and age appropriate goals.

Very well thought out program. Great leaders. Fun kids and coaches.. the kids loved it. We didn't participate this round just due to scheduling conflicts.. but do VERY MUCH recommend checking them out and scheduling a trial. One thing is to understand/discuss prior to your trial is the investment (they do offer a substantial discount for signing up same day as your trial) and the schedule.

We may find ourselves back to join in the Spring but I did want to applaud the business. Girls and boys alike would excel in a studio like this.

My kids have been attending classes both in person and virtually for a couple years now, and we have had a fabulous experience! The staff are all polite, attentive, professional, caring, and VERY patient. I've watched my kids grow in their coordination, self-discipline, and overall martial arts skills. We love the emphasis on character development as well, and how engaging the coaches are during Zoom classes...not an easy task to keep 6,7 and 8 year-olds engaged virtually, but they do it well! Highly recommend this studio!!

6 month's contract make me sick. Cuz of Covid , my son can't go to the class and we can't out of our 6 months contract. I have to pay every month even though my son haven't go to the class. Totally mess.

Started our then 6 year old with a trial class at Chaparral elementary after school program to see if she liked it. Best decision ever! What a great company. Every coach is stellar and kid friendly. They don't talk down to the kids, expect the best and get it. What a confidence builder for our shy girl. She now goes two to three times a week and loves it! Special thanks to Coach Chandler who was so patient and kind in a chaotic after school environment! He's great with kids. Our girls confidence and self esteem has grown beyond our expectations. She also concentrates and listens to adults better in general, focus is a great added benefit!
Can't recommend them enough for a young girl!!!

My son has been training at Swiftkick since 2016.

I can not say enough good things about the coaching staff, level of instruction, and results. They are amazing.

I would highly recommend Swiftkick!

I started my daughter in martial arts last August. We were torn between gymnastics and martial arts. Since she needed help in focusing more (in general), we picked martial arts.

Our friend recommended this studio in rancho Bernardo since we live in the area. I spoke with Brian Cowell (CEO and founder) he was the nicest person ever! He answered all my questions and concerns I had before we started. We also spoke to Bev and she was amazing too.

She is in the Explorers class and she is loving it. Last week, she moved up to an orange stripe belt. She has improved on her attention span and her skills.

The staffs there are amazing. They are so friendly and very knowledgeable of what they teach to the children. They also emphasize a lot on not using their skills outside of class unless they are in a dangerous situation (ex: stranger situation).

At first my daughter cried because she was so nervous, but once she knew they were having so much fun, there was no more tears. I would HIGHLY recommend bringing your kids or even yourself (they have adult martial arts class too). It's a good workout and wonderful place for kids to learn many defense mechanism and also focusing skills.

My son really does enjoy participating in Swiftkick Martial Arts. The staff is super friendly and always makes us feel very welcomed. The instructors are very patient and attentive to the kids. My son has learned a lot!