United Studios of Self Defense
About
United Studios of Self Defense in Salt Lake City offers a comprehensive martial arts curriculum that includes MMA, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, kickboxing, and karate. The gym is part of a national organization, providing students with access to world class masters, regional tournaments, and international training opportunities. This structure allows for consistent training even if members relocate, supporting a lifetime of martial arts development. The instruction blends technical skill, practical application, and philosophical teachings about personal conduct and living well.
reviewsWhat Members Say
Members consistently praise Sensei Steve and Master Faber for their exceptional coaching, describing them as patient, knowledgeable, kind, and dedicated instructors who get to know students personally to tailor their teaching. Reviewers highlight how the gym fosters resilience and confidence in both children and adults, creating a supportive, fun, and challenging environment where no one is left behind. Parents specifically note the instructors' skill in working with children, including those with special needs, helping them find success where other activities have failed. The sense of camaraderie and the blend of artistry, technique, and practical application are repeatedly mentioned as key strengths.
rate_reviewGoogle Reviews (5)
Hillaree Robinson
a year ago
My son has trained under Sensei Steve for almost 3 years. He has gotten to know my son personally and has developed a wonderful relationship with him. He gets to know all of this students so he can teach them how they learn best. Steve is patient, knowledgeable, kind, and dedicated. If a child or adult in your life has an interest in martial arts, USSD is the place to go.
Jacob Burton Denmark
a year ago
TL;DR: I highly recommend USSD Millcreek for both adults and kids. Sensei Steve is an excellent instructor who will hone your martial arts skills in a friendly and supportive environment. Beyond weekly classes, the backing of the national USSD organization opens up a depth of knowledge and experiences unrivaled by other schools. My 11 year old son and I have been fortunate to train with Sensei Steve for the past two years. He has a wonderful way of engaging the kids/teens class. He has a playfulness that keeps the kids smiling while he pushes them to improve not just their skills but also their conduct. Under Sensei Steve’s guidance, I’ve seen my son develop more resilience and confidence both inside and outside the dojo. In my son’s words, “His classes were fun as well as informative. Everyone got their own experience to learn and nobody was left behind.” In the adult classes, I’m always learning something new from Sensei Steve. He applies his depth of experience to share targeted feedback that helps unlock my own skills. Whether we're drilling our basics, practicing a complicated technique, sparring each other, or learning a new weapons forms—his classes are always challenging, rewarding, and fun. I also love the atmosphere he creates in his classes—one of camaraderie and a shared goal to help everyone in the class improve. Regarding United Studios of Self Defense, I’ve been really pleased with the organization in general. I find they teach a great blend of artistry, technique, practical application, and even some philosophy on how to lead a good life. Through the national school we have opportunities to learn from world-class masters, join regional tournaments and participate in international karate trips. And if my family needed to move for some reason, there’s a good chance we could find another USSD dojo and pick up our training there. It’s great to know we have a lifetime of learning ahead of us. So whether you’re looking for a martial arts studio for yourself or your kids, I’d definitely suggest you give USSD Millcreek a try.
Spencer Hall
a year ago
Fantastic dojo. Master Faber runs a great program. The kids learn discipline, self confidence, and have an awesome time doing it. We have a 12-year-old son with special needs. We’ve tried so many different sports, and it has always ended in meltdowns and frustration. This is the first activity where he actually found success. The instructors push and stretch him while also understanding his limitations. He has thrived and just earned his blue belt. We are beyond grateful as parents to watch the transformation of the past year. Highly, highly recommend this place.
Eric Seligmann
a year ago
Sensei Steve is excellent and so is USSD. I've had the pleasure of training with Steve for about two years and my son has trained with him for a little over two years. I highly recommend this dojo for children, adults, anyone who is looking for just casual training and serious martial arts training alike. Whatever you focus, whatever your speed, come to USSD!
Tammy Funk
6 years ago
My daughter and I have been involved with USSD and Sensei Faber for over 5 years. My daughter had tremendous benefits from being part of karate. I too have had positive results. He is not only the best Sensei around, but he is one of the best people I have ever met! He is honest, genuine, funny, and very talented! He truly cares about you and your fitness and self defense journey! I am so glad to be part of the USSD family again...especially part of Sensei Faber's life and journey as well! So lucky to be part of it. Go for it...you won't regret it!
Contact
4550 S 900 E Suite 201, Millcreek, UT 84117, USA
scheduleHours
Monday: 2:00 – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 2:00 – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 2:00 – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 2:00 – 9:00 PM
Friday: 2:00 – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Sunday: Closed