Beginner-Friendly
Never trained before? Our instructors create a welcoming environment where beginners can learn safely and confidently.
Real Training. Real Community. Real Results.
Why Choose Our Jiu-Jitsu Academy?
At Escondido Combat Academy, we help students of all ages and experience levels gain confidence, discipline, fitness, and practical self-defense skills through expert MMA, Jiu-Jitsu, and Boxing instruction.
Expert Coaching
Train under experienced No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu coaches dedicated to helping every student improve.
Real Self-Defense Training
Learn practical self-defense techniques that work in real-world situations.
Supportive Community
Join a positive and motivating community that helps students stay consistent and accountable.
Kids Character Development
Our kids program teaches discipline, respect, confidence, and focus while keeping classes fun.
Flexible Class Schedule
Morning, evening, and weekend classes available for busy schedules.
Training Programs
Classes for Every Skill Level
Whether you’re a complete beginner or experienced competitor, our programs are designed to help you grow on and off the mats.
Kids Programs
Help your child develop discipline, confidence, focus, and respect in a fun and safe environment. Available for ages 3-13 with age-appropriate curriculum and expert coaching.
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No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu
Train modern grappling techniques focused on speed, movement, and real-world application. Great for self-defense, MMA, and anyone looking to improve their Jiu-Jitsu skills without the gi.
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Strength & Conditioning
Our strength and conditioning classes are designed to improve your athleticism, endurance, and injury resilience to support your Jiu-Jitsu training.
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Women’s Self-Defense
Our women’s classes provide a comfortable and empowering environment focused on self-defense, confidence, fitness, and technique.
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Weekly Training Schedule
Popular Classes
Morning, evening, and weekend classes available for beginners, advanced students, kids, adults, and competitors.
Monday
10:00 AM
No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu
Fundamentals
3:45 PM
Kids ABCs
Ages 3-6
8:30 PM
No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu
All Levels
Wednesday
8:00 AM
Boxing
All Levels
6:30 PM
MMA
All Levels
8:30 PM
No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu
All Levels
Friday
6:30 AM
Strength & Conditioning
Beginner Friendly
2:00 PM
Kids Boxing
Ages 3-6
8:30 PM
No-Gui Jiu-Jitsu
All Levels
Meet The Coaches
Learn From Experienced Instructors
Our coaching staff is dedicated to helping students grow both on and off the mats.
Owner • Head Coach • No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu • Boxing
Coach Dom Chisem
With over 15 years of No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu experience, Dom focuses on helping students develop confidence, discipline, and technical excellence.
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Kids Programs • Admin
Ms. Harmony Albarran
Harmony manages our gym operations and leads our Kids ABCs program, teaching young students discipline, respect, and confidence through martial arts.
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Owner • Strength & Conditioning • Kids Programs
Coach Jen Chisem
Jen is a strength and conditioning specialist who also leads our women's self-defense classes.
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Kids Programs
Coach Jon Cerna
Jon is a dedicated instructor who leads our 6-13 aged kids No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu classes, helping children build confidence and discipline in a fun and safe environment.
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No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu • Kids Programs • Wrestling • Muay Thai
Coach Colin Lauterbach
Colin is a versatile instructor with expertise in multiple martial arts disciplines, dedicated to teaching students of all ages.
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No-Gi Jiu Jitsu • Women's Self-Defense
Coach Ashley Sargent
Ashley is a passionate instructor focused on empowering women through self-defense and No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu training.
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No-Gi Jiu Jitsu
Coach Kyle Chambers
Kyle specializes in No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu, teaching fast-paced grappling techniques that translate well into MMA and self-defense.
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No-Gi Jiu Jitsu
Coach Rich Sargent
Rich is an experienced Jiu-Jitsu instructor who helps students of all levels improve their technique and confidence on the mats.
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Kickboxing • SDRC Program
Coach Isaac Mwereru
Isaac is a skilled kickboxing instructor who brings energy and expertise to our striking classes.
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Kickboxing • Muay Thai
Coach Esteban Gonzalez Alvarez
Esteban is a dynamic instructor who brings passion and expertise to our kickboxing and Muay Thai classes.
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What Our Students Say
Real reviews from students and families training at our academy.
“Escondido Combat is a great academy where my children have been training for 9 months and I have seen a great change not only in their boxing and Jiu-Jitsu techniques but I have also seen that they have much more confidence in themselves.”
Eleazar E. - Parent
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“A great place to start your martial arts journey. They’ve created a welcoming, family-friendly environment that truly stands out.”
Jesus B. - Beginner
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“I’ve been a member with ECA since they opened and Hands down one of the best multidisciplinary gyms you can find for you & kids.”
Kayleigh R. - Longtime Member
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“I was super nervous to start, but I’m so glad I joined. They’re so welcoming and work with all skill levels.”
Madison S. - Member
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“My 3 & 4 year old girls love it here. Coach Dom is patient, fun, and teaches respect and discipline.”
Casey B. - Parent
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“One of the best gyms for all levels. Family feel, great coaching, and excellent instruction.”
Esteban G. - Member
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About Escondido Combat Academy
Built on Strength, Service, and Community
Escondido Combat Academy began as a mission to create a safe, empowering place for students of all ages to build confidence, resilience, and real-world self-defense skills. Founded by veterans and martial arts instructors, Jen and Dom, the academy combines military discipline with compassionate teaching to transform lives on and off the mat.
Every lesson is rooted in the founders' story: overcoming challenges, serving community, and honoring heritage. The academy is grounded in respect, technique, and the belief that everyone deserves the chance to become stronger, smarter, and more capable.
Escondido Combat Academy is proudly black owned, female owned, and veteran owned, guided by leaders who bring diverse perspectives, integrity, and a commitment to excellence.
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Owners
A dedicated leadership team with roots in military service and martial arts, our owners lead with purpose, compassion, and a deep commitment to the North County community.
Why Train With Us
Benefits of Martial Arts Training
Build strength, confidence, discipline, and mental toughness through structured No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu and self-defense training.
Physical & Mental Growth
Martial arts training improves your body, sharpens your mindset, and helps you develop confidence both on and off the mats.
Strength
Build full-body functional fitness and endurance.
Flexibility
Improve mobility, movement, and athletic performance.
Confidence
Develop discipline and confidence through consistent training.
Focus
Reduce stress and improve mental clarity and resilience.
Improve physical fitness
Build confidence and discipline
Learn practical self-defense
Reduce stress and anxiety
Develop mental toughness
Increase flexibility and mobility
Become part of a supportive community
Gain competition skills
Ready to start training?
We'd Love To Hear From You
We respect your privacy. Your information is secure.
✓ Kids Program Classes
✓ Personalized Intro Class
✓ $25 Unlimited Day Pass
✓ Coach Program Recs
Stay Connected
Events & Promotions
Discover upcoming seminars, workshops, tournaments, community events, and exclusive membership specials at Escondido Combat Academy.
Promotion
Don’t Miss Our Summer Warrior Special
Sign up this month for $0 enrollment fee plus a free academy t-shirt. Whether you want to start training or get back on the mat, this is the perfect opportunity to experience our academy and community. Don't miss out on this limited-time offer to kickstart your fitness and self-defense journey with us!
Ends June 15, 2026
$0 Enrollment Fee + Free ECA t-shirt
Event
Parents' Night Out
The Ultimate Night Out: Pizza, Prizes, and Pixar! Drop the kids at ECA for 3 hours of high-energy gym games and custom championship belt crafting. Kids are welcome to wear PJs and bring a comfy pillow, blanket, or plush toy for our screening of 'KPop Demon Hunters'. Dinner and snacks are included while you enjoy a well-deserved break!
June 20th 4-7PM
Escondido Combat Academy
Member Price: $45 per kid, Non-member Price: $55 per kid, Sibling Discount: $10 off each additional kid
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers Before Your First Class
Learn more about our programs, beginner training, self-defense, and what to expect when starting No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu.
No experience is necessary. Our beginner-friendly classes are designed to help new students learn safely and confidently from day one.
Comfortable workout clothes are perfect for your first class. We'll guide you through any gear recommendations after your trial session.
Yes. No-Gi Jiu-Jitsu teaches practical grappling and control techniques that are highly effective in real-world self-defense situations.
Yes. Our kids programs focus on confidence, discipline, focus, respect, and physical fitness in a safe and structured environment.
Most beginners start with 2-3 classes per week to build consistency while allowing proper recovery and skill development.