Santa Barbara Dojo - Downtown SB

Santa Barbara Dojo - Downtown SB is a family martial arts and functional fitness academy located at 122 East Gutierrez Street in Santa Barbara, California. The dojo was co-founded in 2002 by Grandmaster Melodee Meyer, a 7th Dan black belt with the Global Hapkido Association, and Head Instructor Master Austin Curtis, also a 7th Dan black belt. Instruction is conducted by a distinguished team that includes Sensei Litzy Diaz, Master Alex Rodriguez—a 5th Dan instructor certified in Jeet Kune Do—and 4th Dan instructor Master Ray Janik. The curriculum centers on traditional Korean Hapkido, combining circular deflections, joint locks, throws, and striking defense. The facility also runs structured kids karate classes, cardio kickboxing conditioning, resistance band workouts, and six-week personal transformation challenges. The school provides an encouraging, community-centered environment suitable for young beginners as well as seasoned martial artists. Prospective students and local families in Santa Barbara can visit the dojo or sign up online to begin with a two-week trial.