Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Martial Arts Academy in Riverside & Orange, CA
Since 1972, Usko Karate has been a cornerstone of martial arts education in Riverside and Orange, California. Founded by Sensei Joe Pagliuso, our academy offers a family-friendly environment where students of all ages and skill levels can explore disciplines like Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Karate, and Kickboxing. Our programs emphasize self-defense mastery, physical fitness, and mental discipline, fostering confidence and resilience in every student. With two state-of-the-art facilities, we combine decades of expertise with personalized instruction to help individuals achieve their personal and martial arts goals.Our instructors, including internationally recognized fighters and champions, bring unparalleled experience to every class. We partner with Charter schools to deliver life-changing programs that build focus, concentration, and character. Whether pursuing competitive training or seeking a supportive community, our members benefit from a legacy of excellence rooted in tradition and innovation.
Services
Jiu Jitsu
Muay Thai
Karate
Kickboxing
Kids Martial Arts
Details
- Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years of combined martial arts expertise from internationally recognized instructors.
- Our programs combine self-defense mastery with physical fitness and character development.
- We provide age-specific classes for children and adults at all skill levels.
- Our Charter school partnerships deliver state-approved life skills development programs.
- We foster a supportive community focused on personal growth and mutual respect.
Services
Jiu Jitsu
Our Jiu Jitsu program teaches ground control through holds, locks, and submissions. Students develop strategic thinking and self-defense skills while improving physical conditioning. The curriculum emphasizes positional awareness and practical techniques for real-world scenarios.
Muay Thai
This Muay Thai program focuses on punches, kicks, elbows, and knee strikes. Training includes combination drills, defensive tactics, and clinch work to enhance combat effectiveness and physical endurance for self-defense or competition.
Karate
Our Karate classes emphasize precise striking techniques, stances, and kata forms. Students cultivate discipline, mental focus, and respect through structured training that balances physical skill with character development.
Kids Martial Arts
Age-specific martial arts programs teach children fundamental techniques, teamwork, and self-confidence. Classes combine fun activities with structured learning to develop coordination, discipline, and respect in a safe environment.
Charter School Program
Approved by multiple Charter schools, our program integrates martial arts training with life skills development. Students improve concentration, focus, and self-confidence through curriculum-aligned activities that support academic and personal growth.
People
Joey Pagliuso
Head Instructor
7th-degree USKO black belt with 40+ years of experience. Retired Muay Thai/K1 kickboxer who fought in the K1 Max Final 16. Specializes in advanced grappling and striking techniques.
Nina Pagliuso
Instructor
3rd-degree USKO Karate black belt with multiple World Kata titles. Trains students in traditional forms, precision strikes, and discipline-focused techniques for all skill levels.
Ray Gallardo
Head Muay Thai Instructor
Specializes in Muay Thai striking and clinch techniques. Brings competitive fight experience to practical self-defense training for Riverside location students.
Jamarr Coleman
Instructor
Focuses on foundational martial arts skills for beginners. Emphasizes proper form, safety, and progressive development in Jiu Jitsu and Karate disciplines.
Aaron Aguilan
Instructor
Trains students in kickboxing combinations and conditioning exercises. Combines boxing fundamentals with dynamic kicking techniques for effective self-defense preparation.
Questions
What martial arts programs do you offer?
We offer Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Karate, Kickboxing, and specialized kids' programs for all skill levels.
Do you provide trial classes for new students?
Yes, we offer a free trial class to help you experience our programs and facilities.
Are your instructors certified and experienced?
Our instructors include 7th-degree black belts, international champions, and Charter school program specialists.
Do you have programs for children?
Yes, we offer age-specific martial arts classes focusing on discipline, coordination, and self-confidence.
Are you an approved vendor for Charter schools?
Yes, we partner with multiple Charter schools to deliver state-approved life skills development programs.
