Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Martial Arts Studio in Glendale, CA
At Fred Villari's Studios Of Self Defense, we have dedicated over five decades to empowering individuals through martial arts. Founded in 1968 by Grandmaster Fred Villari, our studio offers programs for children, teens, and adults, emphasizing personal growth, discipline, and community. Our unique Shaolin Kempo Karate system combines traditional techniques with modern self-defense, fostering physical fitness, mental clarity, and emotional resilience. Led by Chief Master Instructor Armen Heroian, our team prioritizes safety, respect, and individualized instruction. We cultivate a supportive environment where students build confidence, leadership, and lifelong skills.With a legacy recognized alongside martial arts legends, we remain committed to excellence, integrity, and transformative education. Our Glendale, California, location serves surrounding communities, offering tailored classes that adapt to diverse needs. By integrating mindfulness, nutrition, and life skills, we ensure holistic development beyond physical training. Join a legacy of excellence where every student thrives in a community that values empowerment, camaraderie, and continuous improvement.
Services
Kids Martial Arts
Teen Martial Arts
Adult Martial Arts
Self-Defense Training
Character Development
Details
- Year established: 1968
Highlights and features
- We offer 50+ years of expertise in Shaolin Kempo Karate instruction.
- Our programs emphasize personalized growth and mental resilience.
- We maintain small class sizes for individualized attention.
- Our instructors hold advanced black belt rankings and industry recognition.
- We integrate life skills like leadership and mindfulness into training.
What people say
Excellent self protection system
Amazing experience for my son
Incredible instructors
Taught life-changing skills
Supportive community
Services
Kids Martial Arts
Our Kids Martial Arts program builds discipline, respect, and confidence in children aged 5+. Through structured classes, students learn foundational techniques while developing focus, physical fitness, and social skills. The curriculum balances fun activities with character education, preparing children for academic and personal success. Instructors prioritize safety and individual progress, fostering a supportive environment for growth.
Teen Martial Arts
Teen Martial Arts classes combine self-defense with leadership development for ages 13-18. Students enhance physical fitness, mental resilience, and emotional balance while learning practical combat techniques. The program addresses adolescent challenges through goal-setting, peer collaboration, and stress management. Small class sizes ensure personalized guidance, helping teens build confidence and responsibility in a non-competitive setting.
Adult Martial Arts
Adult Martial Arts classes offer a comprehensive fitness and self-defense solution for all experience levels. Participants improve strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health while mastering practical combat skills. The program emphasizes mental clarity, stress relief, and community building through partner drills and mindfulness practices. Classes accommodate busy schedules with flexible timing and scalable intensity.
Self-Defense Training
Self-Defense Training focuses on real-world scenarios using Shaolin Kempo Karate techniques. Students learn strikes, blocks, and grappling methods adaptable to various threat levels. The curriculum includes situational awareness, de-escalation tactics, and physical conditioning. Training emphasizes practical application over competition, ensuring skills translate to everyday safety and confidence.
Character Development
Character Development integrates mindfulness, leadership, and ethical values into martial arts instruction. Students practice respect, perseverance, and teamwork through structured lessons and role-playing. The program reinforces goal-setting, emotional regulation, and community service, creating well-rounded individuals. These principles apply across age groups, enhancing personal and professional relationships.
People
Armen Heroian
Chief Master Instructor
Armen Heroian, a 10th Degree Master Instructor in Shaolin Kung Fu, Karate, Jiu Jitsu, and Kempo, has taught martial arts since 1975. Inducted into the Black Belt Hall of Fame, he leads Fred Villaris Studios with expertise in traditional and modern techniques. His leadership emphasizes holistic growth, community impact, and technical excellence.
Questions
What age is appropriate for Kids Martial Arts classes?
Our Kids Martial Arts program accepts children as young as 5 years old, with age-specific instruction ensuring safety and engagement.
Will martial arts make my child aggressive?
No, our focus on respect and discipline reduces aggression by teaching emotional control and structured behavior.
Are classes safe for beginners?
Yes, safety is prioritized with padded equipment, supervised activities, and gradual skill progression for all experience levels.
Do you offer family discounts?
Yes, we provide discounts for families enrolling multiple members in our martial arts programs.
What should I wear for my first class?
Comfortable athletic wear is recommended for the first class, with uniforms provided upon enrollment.
Can adults with no experience join?
Absolutely, our Adult Martial Arts classes cater to all skill levels, including complete beginners.
