Business Details
26 Years
experience
Your Trusted Martial Arts Training Center in North Salt Lake
Mushin Self Defense has been a trusted leader in martial arts instruction for over two decades, founded in 2000 by Brian Yamasaki and Brandon Kiser. Our mission is to empower individuals through disciplined, respectful, and safe training in Mixed Martial Arts, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Kids Karate. With over 20 years of combined experience, our instructors hold prestigious certifications from Erik Paulsons Combat Submission Wrestling and the Thai Boxing Association of the USA.We prioritize personalized instruction, fostering a family-like community where students of all ages and skill levels achieve personal growth, self-defense proficiency, and physical fitness. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our 5.0-star rating from 82 reviews, highlighting our supportive environment, expert coaching, and life-changing impact on students. We serve Salt Lake and Davis County, offering flexible class schedules and tailored programs for adults, children, and corporate groups.
Services
MMA Classes
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Muay Thai
Kids Karate
Women's Self Defense
Corporate Workshops
Private Lessons
Youth MMA
Thai Boxing
Combat Submission Wrestling
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We offer over 20 years of combined experience in martial arts instruction.
- Our instructors hold certifications from Erik Paulsons Combat Submission Wrestling and Muay Thai USA.
- We provide personalized, one-on-one attention in group and private lessons.
- Our family-friendly environment fosters community, safety, and mutual support.
- We guarantee a risk-free introductory lesson to experience our training firsthand.
Associations and certifications
- Erik Paulson's Combat Submission Wrestling
- Thai Boxing Association of the USA
What people say
Safe, friendly environment
Expert instructors
Builds confidence
Family-friendly culture
Life-changing experience
Services
MMA Classes
Our MMA classes combine striking, grappling, and strategy for comprehensive self-defense and competitive training. Students learn techniques from Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Combat Submission Wrestling in a structured, safe environment. Ideal for all skill levels, these classes build physical fitness, mental focus, and confidence through expert coaching and peer support.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu focuses on ground fighting and submission holds using leverage and technique. Our curriculum caters to beginners and advanced students, emphasizing practical self-defense and sport applications. Classes include gi and no-gi options, with personalized feedback to refine skills and promote steady progression.
Muay Thai
Muay Thai classes teach striking techniques including elbows, knees, kicks, and clinch work. Certified instructors provide detailed instruction on stance, timing, and sparring safety. Students develop power, speed, and endurance through drills, pad work, and controlled sparring in a supportive, injury-conscious environment.
Kids Karate
Kids Karate programs instill discipline, respect, and self-confidence in children aged 515. Classes blend technical training with character development, teaching self-defense, goal-setting, and teamwork. Small class sizes ensure individual attention, fostering physical fitness and emotional resilience in a fun, structured setting.
Women's Self Defense
Womens Self Defense classes focus on practical techniques to de-escalate threats and protect oneself. Instructors emphasize situational awareness, verbal assertiveness, and physical escapes in a judgment-free space. Participants gain confidence and skills to handle real-world scenarios while building strength and camaraderie.
People
Brian Yamasaki
Head Instructor
Brian Yamasaki, a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under William Bernales, has over 20 years of martial arts experience. Certified in Muay Thai under Ajarn Surachai Chai Sirisute, he specializes in Combat Submission Wrestling. Brian fosters a respectful, family-oriented environment, prioritizing student growth and safety.
Brandon Kiser
Head Instructor
Brandon Kiser, a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Certified Muay Thai Instructor, brings decades of competitive and teaching experience. He emphasizes technical precision and practical application, ensuring students of all levels achieve their goals in a supportive, professional atmosphere.
Questions
What martial arts programs do you offer?
We offer MMA, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Kids Karate, Women’s Self Defense, and Corporate Workshops for all skill levels.
Do I need prior experience to join?
No prior experience is required. Our classes welcome beginners and experienced students, with instruction tailored to individual skill levels.
What should I wear to my first class?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing. Men should bring a protective cup. Gloves, shin guards, and mouthpieces are optional for subsequent classes.
Are there classes for children?
Yes! We offer Kids Karate (ages 5–8) and Youth MMA (ages 9–15) with a focus on discipline, confidence, and self-defense.
What are your instructors' qualifications?
Our instructors hold Black Belts in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and certifications from Erik Paulson’s Combat Submission Wrestling and Muay Thai USA.
Do you offer a free introductory lesson?
Yes! Sign up for a free intro lesson to experience our training environment, meet instructors, and try a class risk-free.
