Shaolin Academy Martial Arts 4S Ranch

We feel incredibly lucky to have found SAMA 4S Ranch for our daughter. From day one, it’s been so much more than just martial arts — it’s a place where she’s grown in confidence, character, and community. Sensei Stef, Sensei Ben, and every single person she interacts with are absolutely amazing. I truly can’t say enough about how supportive and kind everyone is — even the other students. It really feels like one big family, where everyone lifts each other up and brings so much positivity. They go above and beyond to make sure she’s not only learning but thriving. This place has become a second home, and we’re so grateful to be part of it. We’re looking forward to being here for as long as possible!

My family have been in martial arts for over 10 years. We have studied at 3 different dojos (because of moving). We shopped around to a number of dojos in the Mira Mesa/Poway area trying to find one that fit both our prefered style and our family's needs. 4S is a drive, but well worth it!!! Walking into to this dojo was like walking into a place we'd been studying at for years. We have two kids ages 8 & 16 who have been at this for years and they love coming to class. My teen just became an upper belt and competed at tournament! She usually avoids presentations or "being watched". The Ninja bucks incentive program for the kids is a wonderful. My young son has learned the lesson of saving up his money along with the discipline and joy of karate. Best thing for my kids has been this dojo. ~ As of 2025 they have a 3-4 year olds "First Kicks" class. I'm there at the same time and ALL the littles in that class come out just oozing joy. My husband calls it his "happy place". We have all studied weapons as well as the martial arts (and a bit of boxing movement) here. Sensei Stef even made arrangements so that I could fulfill a bucket list dream of learning a war fan form. Even with my chronic pain issue. I know they absolutely work to include everyone even if there are needed heath and disability accommodations. (edit: I decided to fully join. The senseis have ALL been so kind as I get back into it, overcome depression, and regain my health.) Every dojo I've been to has a chaotic feel between classes, but not all of them have the positivity and inclusion we have found here. We plan to stay with the dojo as long as possible. Edit Dec 2025: My kids are older now and are advancing nicely. Daughter has competed more and got 1st in her division & 4th place all around at her last tournament. Husband is close to his Black belt. Shaolin Academy is a great place for the whole family.

My 12 year old son has been with USSD 4S Ranch for about five years now and I have seen an incredible difference in him. He's growing and maturing with good values that parallel what we teach at home which are supported through this studio. He absolutely loves the program and has been training under Sensei Will and Sensei Stephanie. He's participated in class offerings for weapons training and Ninja nights (before Covid, of course) and loved them all. When I asked him specifically what he loves about the program, he said he likes that he does the techniques on his own (once he's learned it) as opposed to following someone through a routine. He learns not only the routines, but practical knowledge and application as well. I appreciate how flexible they are with rescheduling and how kind and respectful they are to everyone. I am impressed with the older students, such as the brown belts, who have offered a helping hand or a kind word at any opportunity, including young kids! They are definitely doing this program right and I'm happy to be a part of the USSD family.

SAMA is hands down an amazing place to learn martial arts and develop as an athlete and leader. I believe that learning self defense skills and confidence in your own abilities is critical in today’s uncertain world. As the mother of a young daughter, I feel it’s my duty to help her learn self defense and how to react if she is ever in a vulnerable physical situation. I started learning karate when I was a young teen and have continued my training as an adult. It’s great for fitness and mental acuity. There is some challenging memorization that helps keep the brain sharp. The movement promotes flexibility and strength. My balance and stress levels benefit from my training. One thing I love about Sensei Stefanie’s program is that they offer Zoom remote group and private lessons for times a student cannot come to the studio in person. That makes it so flexible, especially for busy professionals like me. I have on occasion joined a Zoom class from my office; I just found a quiet spot and Zoomed from my laptop! Lastly, I want to shout out and thank the incredible staff. I’ve been with the program long enough to have been taught by numerous instructors. Sensei Stefanie, Sensei Maddie, Sensei Ben, Sensei Cole, Sensei Shannon, and Sensei Dara. Every instructor has their own style and everyone has been really great to work with. I highly recommend this dojo!!!

We always look forward to going to our classes! My 2 boys and I (their mother) love the family that owns this Academy! Sensei Stef, Sensei Ben and Sensei Maddie are the best! They are always so warm, understanding, easy to communicate with and welcoming. I also love they that are patient, but firm. The feeling of everyone being a tight knit family is a plus! Come and see for yourself what they are about!