Kenyon’s Soo Bahk Do
About
Kenyon's Soo Bahk Do offers training in Soo Bahk Do, a traditional Korean martial art, with instruction available for all ages and skill levels. The studio has been operating since 1968 under the leadership of Master Daymon Kenyon and Master Viki Kenyon, who are supported by a team of dedicated fellow masters. The gym provides a structured environment where students can develop physical fitness, mental focus, and self-discipline through consistent practice and belt advancement.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise Master Kenyon as a phenomenal instructor with deep knowledge of Soo Bahk Do and exceptional teaching abilities for both children and adults. They highlight the welcoming, supportive atmosphere created by instructors and fellow students, with many forming lasting friendships. Reviewers specifically mention the holistic benefits extending beyond physical training to include mental focus, discipline, respect, and positive mindset that apply to daily life. Several note multi-generational family involvement and long-term loyalty, with some students training for decades under the Kenyons' guidance.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Ashley Duren
9 years ago
Kenyon's Soo Bahk Do has proven to be such a positive physical and mental experience for me. I have always had a curiosity about karate and the martial arts, and although it took me until my mid-30s to give it a try, I couldn't be happier that I did. Master Kenyon is a phenomenal instructor, beyond knowledgable, and the other masters who work with him are so dedicated and helpful as well. The people in the studio create such a supportive, welcoming atmosphere, and I have become friends with so many of the students in there. Not only do I leave each class feeling that I received a great work-out, but I also appreciate the sense of respect, focus, and positive mindset that the martial arts demands, and find I actively extend these principles of Soo Bahk Do to the other areas of my life as well. Thanks Master Kenyon!
Michael Maggiora
9 years ago
Master Kenyon is an incredibly gifted martial artist and instructor. Whether he is instructing children or adults he always finds a way to motivate his students to perform their best. My Father began training at Master Kenyon's studio in 1993 and I transitioned from an all children's martial arts studio to Master Kenyon's in 1997. I have been training with Master Kenyon and Mrs. Master Kenyon ever since. My two young children train with both Mr. & Mrs. Kenyon. I highly recommend Kenyon's Soo Bahk Do to anyone (Big, small young or old) interested in learning from a true Master.
Varda Levram-Ellisman
9 years ago
I joined Kenyon's Soo Bahk Do with my daughter more than 13 years ago. We chose this studio after screening many places. I have observed the respect and yet discipline that both Master Daymon Kenyon and Master Viki Kenyon treated the kids and the adults and decided to join. It was a wonderful bonding journey to achieve a Dan level with my daughter. I am now a 3rd degree Dan and will continue practicing as long as is possible. I love and respect Kenyon's Soo Bahk Do and see it as a wholesome physical, mental, and spiritual practice.
Jean-Michel Collas
8 years ago
I was about to stay in San Diego for two months, my first strike of luck was to meet Master Kenyon during my first days there and my second strike of luck, the biggest one actually, was that I was granted the privilege to be admitted into his classes. It is difficult to describe this gentleman because there is probably too much to be told about this great man: great availability, invaluable knowledge of Soo Bahk Do and its connection with martial arts, boundless commitment to this discipline and to the community he proudly represents, he knows perfectly well how to make you feel comfortable (especially when I proved to be a bad learner at times) etc. At the end of each class I always felt this great feeling of fulfilment. Also, as was said in another review, Master Kenyon is remarkably assisted by his fellow masters who never forgot to assist me when necessary. Soo Bahk Do with Master Kenyon is a school of spirituality, focus, discipline, humility and adversity (I mean, how to face it), the benefits of which are invaluable, if only because they form an excellent cocktail in order to build up a strong personality. As soon as I know when I'm back to this amazing place that is San Diego, because I will, my first task will be to ask Master Kenyon to admit me again into his classes. I highly recommend Master Kenyon for a long journey in the world of Soo Bahk Do.
Jill Salmon
9 years ago
We found Kenyon's Soo Bahk Do for my daughter from her friend. The two girls (seven years old) have been enrolled for several months. The two have grown tremendously and respect their instructor, Master Kenyon with utmost regard. Master Kenyon has taught them skills and fostered their self-discipline. My three-year-old son watched the class previously and anxiously wanted to join in. Master Kenyon would involve him at the end of class to make him feel included. Over time, Master Kenyon saw that my son would benefit from disciplined instruction and volunteered to have him join class to trial. My boy was your stereotypical rambunctious three year old. However, when Master Kenyon brought him in, he focused and responded respectfully. My son, now four, partakes in the entire class and loves it. At home, my two children practice and look forward to class and advancing their belts. Master Kenyon has become a role model they respect and look up to. I highly recommend Master Kenyon's Soo Bahk Do for all children looking into martial arts instruction! Their studios have been around since 1968 and their students are loyal!