Welcome to
Happy Life Martial Arts.

Hi! I’m Ando from SenseiAndo.com. The martial arts changed my life and I believe they can change yours, too. Join me for a class and you’ll see why.

WHAT IS CLASS LIKE?

We warm up with practical fitness drills… review self-defense strategies and techniques… then experiment with freestyle partner work.

The ultimate goal is to figure out what works for YOU and what doesn’t—that’s what puts the “art” in martial arts!

DO I HAVE TO BE IN GOOD SHAPE?

Not at all! Self-defense is for everybody and every BODY. Just be YOU and see what you can do.

WHAT STYLE DO YOU DO?

The foundation of our practice is Kung Fu San Soo. This is a no-nonsense fighting style that has a long history in Los Angeles. It’s not a sport like kickboxing or MMA—it’s a self-defense framework that can be adapted to meet the needs of all ages, body types, and personalities.

As a martial artist for over 40 years, I share concepts from other arts like Karate and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to make our Kung Fu even stronger.

Don’t worry—no experience is required and everyone learns at their own pace.

DO YOU FOCUS ON STRIKING OR GRAPPLING?

Both! We believe they work best together. We punch, kick, grab, throw, trip, pick up a stick—whatever it takes to be safe.

IS THE CLASS COMPETITIVE?

We only compete with ourselves, building strength and confidence at our own pace. There are no belt tests or tournaments.

IS IT SAFE?

Safety is always a priority. Yes, accidents can happen, but we believe in building each other up, not tearing each other down. We always start slow, then see how far we can go!

WHAT AGES DO YOU TEACH?

This class is for adults and teenagers only. If you have a child between the ages of 3-12, try a free kids class at Dawn Barnes Karate Kids. (I teach those, too!)

WHEN IS THE ADULT CLASS?

We meet three times a week, after the kids classes:
Tuesday 7-8:30pm
Wednesday 6:30-8:00pm
Thursday 7-8:30pm

HOW MUCH IS IT?

$35: Single class
$120: 4-class series

Private lessons in the Los Angeles area are also available.
Click for info.

HOW DO I START?

Try a free class! If you like it, pay as you go. No contract required.

WHAT DO I WEAR?

Regular workout clothes are fine. Wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. Please note that we practice either in bare feet or in martial arts shoes on the mats.

WHERE IS CLASS HELD?

Dawn Barnes Karate Kids
13409 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

[Map Below]

Parking is available in the back lot or on the street.

READY TO START?

Call (818)478-1669 or leave your name below to let us know you’re coming. Sign a waiver when you arrive and that’s it!

If you have any questions, let me know. We look forward to training with you!