James Martial Arts Academy
Age-appropriate training from preschool through adult. Build confidence, discipline, and real-world skills with 36+ years of expert instruction.
Every program teaches authentic Kajukenbo martial arts training and Kosho-Ryu Kenpo training, the two martial arts systems Sigung Darryl James has trained in for 36+ years.
Kosho Cubs
A gentle introduction to martial arts designed for our youngest students. We build coordination, listening skills, and confidence through playful instruction that respects each child's developmental stage.
Leopards
Build true discipline and character through Kajukenbo and Kosho-Ryu. This program helps kids develop anti-bullying confidence, mental focus, and respect for themselves and others.
Tigers
Step into leadership and resilience. These formative years matter, we develop physical conditioning, problem-solving skills, and the character that earns peer respect and confidence.
Dragons
Real-world self-defense meets mental toughness. Our teen program builds the discipline and confidence that translates to success in college, relationships, and life. Mentorship from Sigung Darryl James and our black belt instructors.
For Everyone
Never too late to start. Our adult program blends stress relief, functional fitness, and practical self-defense with authentic Kajukenbo and Kosho-Ryu technique. Join a supportive community of like-minded practitioners.
Empower Yourself
Situational awareness, practical techniques, and genuine empowerment. This program builds the confidence to recognize and avoid danger, with effective self-defense skills you can trust.
The Two Systems Sigung Teaches
Every age program above is built on these two traditions. Sigung Darryl James has trained in both for 36+ years and holds black belt ranks plus certified instructor credentials in each.
Authentic instruction. Not a watered-down survey class.
Five arts, one street-effective system. Founded 1947.
The hybrid martial art Sigung Darryl James holds a 6th-degree black belt in and a Certified Kajukenbo Instructor credential for. Kajukenbo blends Karate, Judo, Jujutsu, Kenpo, and Chinese boxing into one practical, real-world self-defense system. Taught at JMAA across every age program.
Sigung's Credentials
6th-Degree Black Belt · Certified Kajukenbo Instructor · USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame
Explore KajukenboThe Old Pine Tree School. A 400-year tradition.
Traditional Japanese martial art with 400+ years of refinement, focused on balance, movement, awareness, and de-escalation before physical defense. Sigung James holds a 3rd-degree black belt and Certified Kosho-Ryu Instructor credential — authentic instruction that is rare anywhere in the United States.
Sigung's Credentials
3rd-Degree Black Belt · Certified Kosho-Ryu Instructor · 36+ Years on the Training Floor
Explore Kosho-RyuWant to see how both systems are taught in a real class? Book a free trial, no contract, no pressure.
Sigung Darryl James brings over three decades of proven martial arts instruction and real-world expertise to every class.
USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame inductee with credentials in both Kajukenbo (6th degree) and Kosho-Ryu (3rd degree).
We teach traditional Kajukenbo and Kosho-Ryu, genuine martial arts systems with proven effectiveness and deep roots.
Our academy has trained over 500 families across all ages. Your family will join a thriving, supportive martial arts community.
Use this quick guide to find the perfect program for your age or skill level:
Preschool
Kids
Pre-Teen
Teen
All Levels
All Levels
Ready to find your martial arts path? Whether your child belongs in our Preschool program, Kids Leopards classes, Preteen track, or Teen Dragons — or you're starting adult-only training (brand-new to martial arts? start with our beginner martial arts for adults guide) or women's classes — let's get you on the mat. Our curriculum draws from the Kajukenbo system and the Kosho-Ryu system, taught by Sigung James at our Fletcher Parkway location serving East County San Diego neighborhoods. View the class schedule, or book a no-pressure first week.
Book Your Free Trial👇 Click a program card below to get started
Where restless preschoolers discover focus
From unfocused to confident achievers
Where challenge-seeking kids find discipline
Teens building identity through mastery
Real self-defense, real results, real community
Walk with confidence, not fear
Not sure which program is right? No worries, pick the one that matches your child's age and we'll make sure they're in the perfect class during your free trial week.