Practical Martial Arts

Practical Martial Arts offers training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, striking and kickboxing, Muay Thai kickboxing, traditional boxing, wrestling, Judo, and street self-defense. The program also includes Ninja Camps and age-based classes such as Little Dragons, Beginner Kids, Beginner Teens, and Intermediate/Advanced Teens. Its style, Freestyle Mixed Martial Arts, blends Muay Thai Kickboxing, Brazilian Jiu-jitsu, traditional boxing, wrestling, Judo, and street self-defense.

• Ages: 4–18 years old
• Price: Ninja Camp registration is open for Spring and Summer 2026. Early bird pricing ends April 1st!

Practical Martial Arts has been serving the Marin community for over 30 years. Its mission statement describes a focus on developing confidence, character, and community through the dojo, and notes that the programs build fitness, focus, and a community of genuine respect. The curriculum is described as providing real, accessible self defense skills and an authentic, high level, competitive martial arts experience to students of all ages. The program states that it provides a safe and supportive environment with traditionally structured classes, uniforms, and etiquette, and that its award winning programs are embedded with functional life skills and effective self defense tools. Practical Martial Arts also states that it prides itself on teaching “heart” to all students and creating a bonded community that supports students throughout their lives, and that it will never sell or share personal information for any reason.

The leadership team includes Mike Valentine (Founder, Co-Owner, Sensei), Karen Valentine (Co-Owner, Program Director, Self Defense Instructor), Eusebio Gallegos (Head Instructor), John Truong (Senior Instructor), Yisel Rodas (Lead Instructor, Admin Assistant), Lola Atherton Rawstorne (Lead Instructor, Admin Assistant), Milo Valentine (Lead Instructor), and Levon McCormACK (BJJ Instructor). Staff credentials include Mike Valentine as a 6th Degree Black Belt and 3rd Degree BJJ Black Belt; Karen Valentine as a 3rd Degree Black Belt and Self Defense Instructor; Eusebio Gallegos as a 1st Degree Black Belt; John Truong as a 3rd Degree Black Belt; and Yisel Rodas, Lola Atherton Rawstorne, and Milo Valentine each as 1st Degree Black Belts, with Levon McCormack holding a BJJ Black Belt. The program describes its offerings as award winning and embedded with functional life skills and effective self defense tools, and notes that Ninja Camps are available during fall, winter, spring, and summer breaks and offer a blend of martial arts, movement, and fun.

Last updated April 1, 2026.