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United Studios of Self Defense Lake Forest has been Orange County's premier location for Karate and Self Defense instruction for over 30 years.
We're friendly, upbeat, and our training is real—clear structure, high standards, and personal attention. Whether you’re here for your child’s development or your own strength, you’ll find your people here.
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Fun and engaging classes focused on fitness, self esteem and character building through karate.
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Equipping adolescents and young adults to handle the rigors of the modern world.
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Where adults of all abilities grow strength and friendships through Karate.
There's nothing more fun and empowering than having your child share their passion, and celebrate their birthday in the dojo.
Our space is the perfect venue to host your party or event!
Kempo Karate is a practical self-defense art that blends modern effectiveness with traditional martial arts values.
At United Studios of Self Defense Lake Forest, students train in a disciplined, supportive environment where every class is taught with purpose, focus, and respect.
Our instructors provide personalized attention and adapt to each student’s needs, helping kids, teens, and adults build confidence, strength, coordination, and real-world self-defense skills.
At USSD Lake Forest, the greatest impact of our training shows up beyond the dojo. Students become more confident and resilient—bringing the lessons they learn in martial arts into school, home, and everyday life.
Sensei Dragon loves seeing students push themselves, overcome challenges, and grow through their training. Whether he is working with kids in martial arts classes, teens building confidence, or adults learning self-defense, he is passionate about helping every student discover their own strength and potential.
His own martial arts journey began at the age of 12 after a powerful childhood experience: seeing his brother being bullied and stepping in to protect him. That moment sparked a lifelong dedication to the martial arts and a deep belief in the positive impact self-defense training can have on children, teens, and adults.
Outside of the dojo, Sensei Dragon is a devoted family man and proud father to his 14-year-old daughter. He also enjoys working on motorcycles, bringing the same patience, focus, and attention to detail to his hobbies that he shares with students on the mat.
Training 15 years, Sensei Andrew helps USSD Lake Forest students set goals and earn them through consistent work and discipline. His classes are clear, steady, and focused on growth and progress. Fun fact: he’s an avid metal guitarist.
After 15 years of training, Sensei Aidan recently earned Sandan at the Tokyo Budokan. He’s proud to be a Sensei with autism and connects strongly with Lake Forest students on the spectrum. Off the mat, he’s an actor and dancer with multiple first-place finishes since age 10.
Whether teaching kids the basics or helping adults pursue personal self defense goals— Sensei AJ aims to inspire lasting change. He’s an avid reader and emerging author working on a 15-part series (three books complete). Favorite authors include C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Rick Riordan, and Jeff Smith.
Sensei Aavnika’s eight years of training have shaped her clear, step-by-step teaching style. She loves seeing our Lake Forest Karate students having “aha” moments, and building a genuine love of learning. As a dedicated musician, she’s played violin for eight years in a symphonic orchestra and can play nine instruments.
Sensei Lana has trained eight years and is known for creating a welcoming, caring, atmosphere where students settle in quickly. She balances structure with encouragement, and sets the tone for our community at USSD Lake Forest and recently earned her Shodan at the Tokyo Budokan. Outside the dojo, she enjoys volleyball and tennis.
Sensei Nick excels in personal instruction and spotting the details that help his students grow. His coaching is patient, positive, and practical. Fun fact: he crochets—from beanies to dolphins— he even made a seven-foot Christmas tree for the dojo.
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