Cho's Academy - Martial Arts & Self Defense is a martial arts school in Laguna Beach, CA, offering Jiu Jitsu, wrestling, Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Tae Kwon Do, and women’s self-defense classes for adults and teens. The school emphasizes self-defense, physical fitness, mental discipline, and spiritual connection through structured training. Classes are held Monday through Thursday, with options for both gi and no-gi instruction, and the first class is always free. The school serves the local community and surrounding areas with a focus on practical skills and personal development.
Founded in 2009 by Jacob Cho and Dana Sara, Cho’s Academy was established in Laguna Beach with a foundation in martial arts and yoga. Jacob Cho currently owns and operates the academy full-time. The school’s curriculum integrates traditional techniques with modern training methods, emphasizing leverage, control, and adaptability. Students engage in warm-ups, technical instruction, partner drills, and optional sparring, with programs designed to build strength, coordination, confidence, and mental resilience.
The academy is located on S Coast Hwy in Laguna Beach, situated between Diamond Street and Center Street. It lies about a tenth of a mile from Woods Cove beach and bay, near Ruby Street Park, and within a short distance of Cactus Point and Moss Point. The facility is accessible from the Pacific Coast Highway, which runs adjacent to the property.
Cho's Academy holds a 5.00 rating based on customer reviews, reflecting strong satisfaction with its instruction, community, and training environment. The school is recognized for its commitment to holistic development, combining physical practice with mental and emotional growth through martial arts and mindfulness.
In Laguna Beach, Cho’s Academy stands as a dedicated center for martial arts training rooted in discipline, self-defense, and personal growth.