Since 2010

Our Mission

We transform good people into confident protectors through traditional martial arts training. We build unshakeable character, physical strength, and mental toughness while creating a supportive family atmosphere. Our students develop the skills and courage to defend what matters most, strengthening families and our El Cajon community.

The Day Everything Changed

Fourteen years ago, I answered a phone call that changed my life forever. My instructor, Sr. Grand Master Tony Bowles, asked me to carry on his legacy by opening a martial arts academy. I was working at UC San Diego at the time, as the Chief Administrative Officer for the Animal Care Program, and honestly, I wasn't sure I was ready.

But that evening, when I walked through my door, my kindergarten son Micah came running with pure excitement: "Dad! I told ALL my friends you'd teach them karate because you're a black belt!"

In that moment, I knew this wasn't just about continuing a tradition—it was about answering a calling.

With my wife Cheryl's support, we began our journey at the Junior Seau Sports Complex in La Mesa. Just as my teacher had started in a humble community park, we embraced that same grassroots spirit. From those first classes, what is now known as James Martial Arts Academy took root and began to flourish.

Now, every student who walks through our doors becomes part of our family. We don't just teach techniques—we develop character, build confidence, and transform good people into protectors of their families and communities.

JMAA students training JMAA family atmosphere

Age-Specific Martial Arts Programs

Give your child the advantage of age-specific martial arts training that delivers 3x faster skill development and deeper confidence than traditional mixed-age programs.

👇 Click any program card to see available class times

Ages 3–5 · Preschool

Preschool Martial Arts

"Build your toddler's focus and listening skills — and set them up for kindergarten success."

Big confidence for little ones. Your 3–5 year old will leave each class with better listening skills, real self-control, and the early wins that set them up for kindergarten success, all through fun, game-based training built just for their age.

  • Focused attention span — follows multi-step instructions
  • Body coordination, balance, and self-control
  • Safe, nurturing environment — patient specialist instructors
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Ages 6–9 · Elementary

Kids Martial Arts

"Where your elementary student builds real confidence — and bullying stops."

Your elementary student will walk taller, respond to challenges differently, and earn every rank through real readiness, not age, not attendance. Bullying stops here. Character that carries into the classroom starts here.

  • Verbal self-defense and bully prevention skills
  • Discipline and respect that carries into the classroom
  • Belt ranks earned through real readiness — not age or attendance
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Ages 10–12 · Pre-Teen

Pre-Teen Martial Arts

"Confidence before middle school — when they need it most."

The years before high school define who your child becomes. We give them constructive challenge, emotional self-regulation, and a positive peer group right when they need it most, and when it matters most.

  • Emotional self-regulation under real pressure
  • Constructive challenge — structured, positive peer group
  • Leadership habits that prepare them for high school
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Ages 13–17 · Teen

Teen Martial Arts

"Leadership training disguised as martial arts — and colleges notice."

Your teenager will leave this program more focused, more accountable, and with real leadership experience on their college application. The discipline built here shows up everywhere, in school, in relationships, in life.

  • Real mentorship responsibility — leads junior students
  • Mental toughness and self-mastery under challenge
  • Resume-worthy leadership experience colleges recognize
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Ages 18+ · Adult

Adult Martial Arts

"Get fit, stay sharp, and learn self-defense that actually works."

Stress relief that actually works. Join working professionals and parents who train in authentic Kajukenbo, practical self-defense with a serious workout and a community that shows up.

  • Real-world self-defense rooted in Kajukenbo
  • Serious fitness and mental sharpness — stress that stays on the mat
  • Adults-only community with purpose-driven training
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Ages 18+ · Women Only

Women's Self-Defense

"Every woman deserves to feel safe — everywhere."

Learn practical techniques designed specifically for women. Small class sizes, a supportive all-women environment, no prior experience needed. Walk away more aware, more capable, and more confident.

  • Practical Kajukenbo techniques for real-world situations
  • Situational awareness — confidence that changes how you carry yourself
  • Small class · Supportive environment · Zero experience needed
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Testimonials

What Others Are Saying

The instructor is amazing. He's warm and welcoming, inviting, but he teaches this kids how to defend themselves. We feel so lucky to have found this place! My son loves it!

Katie Kortman
Parent, Tiger Class (Preteen), Google Review

When looking for a karate class for our 7 yr old, we were so lucky to have found James Martial Arts Academy. Sensei Sifu brings the best of vibes and the kids have so much fun while learning at the same time. He knows how to talk to them in a way they understand.

Cynthia Lugo
Parent, Leopard Class (Kids), Google Review

James Martial Arts Academy is one of the best decisions we've ever made for our kids. The classes go far beyond just teaching them some martial arts - they have helped them with confidence, respect, and determination. Sifu Darryl is an incredible mentor.

Kelsea Sisler
Parent, Tiger Class (Preteen), Google Review
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👇 Click a program card below to get started

Ages 3–5

Preschool Martial Arts

Where restless preschoolers discover focus

  • Attention span that surprises teachers
  • Following directions without tantrums
  • Confidence in new situations
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Ages 6–9

Kids Martial Arts

From unfocused to confident achievers

  • Homework finished without battles
  • Standing up to bullies verbally first
  • Friends who lift them up
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Ages 10–12

Preteen Martial Arts

Where challenge-seeking kids find discipline

  • Self-control that transfers everywhere
  • Leadership skills teachers notice
  • Earned respect from peers
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Ages 13–17

Teen Martial Arts

Teens building identity through mastery

  • Purpose beyond screens and peers
  • Mental toughness for life's pressure
  • Confidence colleges actually notice
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Ages 17+

Adult Martial Arts

Real self-defense, real results, real community

  • Functional self-defense that works
  • Best workout you'll actually enjoy
  • Training partners who become family
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Women 17+

Women’s Self-Defense

Walk with confidence, not fear

  • Verbal de-escalation first
  • Physical techniques that work
  • Supportive, judgment-free space
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Not sure which program is right? No worries, pick the one that matches your child's age and we'll make sure they're in the perfect class during your free trial week.