CALI COMBAT SYSTEMS

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Students, fellow instructors, and visitors consistently describe Cali Combat Systems as a place for real-world, practical martial arts training led by an exceptionally knowledgeable and patient instructor. Reviewers repeatedly highlight Sifu Jeramiah Giehl’s depth of experience, his ability to move fluidly between systems, the focus on realistic self-defense (including weapons, multiple attackers, and street scenarios), and the comprehensive nature of the training. Many note that the instruction is effective for beginners and experienced martial artists alike, with strong emphasis on fundamentals, personal attention, and usable skills rather than sport-only techniques. Every review left for Cali Combat Systems has been a 5-star rating.

 

What We Teach – The CCS Phase Method

Cali Combat Systems delivers four complete martial arts systems simultaneously through the CCS Phase Method — a progressive, lifetime curriculum based on Guro Dan Inosanto’s Phase Method approach and organized around Bruce Lee’s three stages of cultivation (Primitive Stage, Stage of Art, and Stage of Artlessness). The four core systems trained in every class from day one are:

• Fight Rhythm Jeet Kune Do — Stand-up striking, interception, trapping, and the Rapid Assault Tactics lineage.

• Kali-Silat Motion — Southeast Asian weapons and empty-hand combat (Inosanto-LaCoste Kali, Pekiti Tirsia, Silat, Panantukan Dirty Boxing, and more).

• First 2 Fight Retzev Combatives — Israeli Krav Maga, Rapid Assault Tactics, and continuous-pressure offensive combatives.

• Integrated Ground Fighting Systems — Submission grappling, Combat JuJitsu, Dumog, and KinaMutai (asymmetric street grappling).

 

The goal of every class is Combat Flow — the ability to move seamlessly between ranges, weapons, and systems without resetting.

 

5-Star Rating Summary: All reviews across platforms (including Google, Yelp, Facebook, Alignable, and direct testimonials) are 5-star ratings. This includes both detailed written reviews and ratings left with no written comment. With a perfect 5-star rating from 36 reviews by students and clients.

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Customer Reviews

1. "Top notch training. Great for Learning self defense. Jeramiah is by far the best instructor in San Diego hands down. I refer everyone to train with him." -- Jose Avalos

2. "Highly Recommend! I really enjoy training martial arts that is mean to help me in real life situations and, as someone with a busy schedule, I really appreciate the flexibity of drop in classes!" -- Miriam Alexandra

3. "I've been training for about four months now and I have been quite impressed. What convinced me to stay was that my first class involved knife fighting. Next class, stick fighting; the class after that, how to throw someone to the ground and it goes on and on like that. Each class there is something new or reviewing something badass like flipping someone. This is very hands on martial arts street fight training. There are various techniques taught from various martial art styles. If you want to focus on a specific martial art style there are private lessons available. I'm bald, fat, and sixty years old and if I can take these classes you can too. Shifu Jeremiah is patient (and I have tested it) and will take the time it needs to give you the training and confidence you need to carry forward. If your on the fence, take a look around you and consider the world you live in. On my first day of class I learned how to parry a knife thrust and return the favor. Don't wait to be the next statistic, you are either a sheep, a wolf, or a sheepdog." -- Kevin S.

4. "Been in many street fights before and I can honestly say that this prepares you for the real deal! Enjoying every second of the trainings!" -- Vinicio Montes

5. "Let me start by saying that the instructor at Cali Combat Systems is truly a master of his craft. With years of experience under his black belt, he brings a level of expertise to the mat that is rare to find. His skill and knowledge make him an invaluable resource for anyone looking to learn martial arts. One aspect that sets Cali Combat Systems apart from other martial arts schools in San Diego is their focus on realistic street self-defense. They don't just teach you fancy moves that look good in the dojo; they teach you practical techniques that can be applied in real-life situations. So if you ever find yourself in a tight spot, you can rest assured knowing that you have the skills to defend yourself. The quality of instruction at Cali Combat Systems is top-notch. The classes are well-structured, with a good balance between learning new techniques and practicing them with partners. The instructor takes the time to explain each move thoroughly, ensuring that every student understands the mechanics behind it. This attention to detail really helps students grasp the concepts and improve their technique. Overall, my experience at Cali Combat Systems was excellent. The combination of experienced instruction, realistic self-defense training, and high-quality instruction makes it one of the best martial arts schools in San Diego. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced practitioner, this place has something to offer for everyone. So if you're looking to learn Jeet Kune Do, Kali, Jiu-Jitsu or Krav Maga in San Diego, I highly recommend checking out Cali Combat Systems - they won't disappoint!" -- Brad Thomas (Say Hey San Diego)​

6. "Been learning from Sifu for roughly one year. I have a varied martial arts background. I know quality instruction when I see it and the Cali Combat System is quality. It is a very practical martial art. I highly recommend it." -- Robert Savage

7. "Jeramiah hails from a solid combative martial art background. Not only does he teach JKD, but he epitomizes what JKD is: Explore other styles and methods. He never is satisfied he has found the Truth. And his students benefit greatly from his thirst for knowledge and diversity. Truly an honor to train with such talent and knowledge. I have had several opportunities to train with Jeramiah and I am very impressed with his knowledge and ability to convey that knowledge to his students." -- Sifu John Doty

8. "Sifu Jeremiah teaches real, effective, quality martial arts. He is extremely knowledgeable, talented and a terrific instructor. Glad to have found this school. Highly recommend!" -- Paula Sit

9. "Great system! Great instructor! If you’re looking for top notch martial arts and self-defense teacher, this is the place. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!" -- Professor John Borter

10. "Jeramiah was an incredible teacher! He was able to start from the beginning and provide tons of real-world valuable content for various situations. I am so grateful I was able to attend and learn from him!" -- Danielle Silverston

11. "Had the opportunity to train with Sifu Jeremiah while visiting San Diego recently. It was an awesome experience. Sifu Jeremiah really brings the reality component to light in every technique he teaches. Highly knowledgeable and skilled; I look forward to training with him again and recommend him to anyone wanting to sharpen their self-defense/combat skills." -- Edward Alvarado

12. "I highly recommend training with Jeramiah Giehl. He has an all around program that includes all the ranges of fighting and self-defense." -- Sensei David Tice

13. "Cali Combat was just what I was looking for! I have studied martial arts for years but I wanted to supplement my experience with some combative/tactical skills and Jeremiah does just that. His program is a comprehensive, practical system that includes training in grappling, striking, and weapons. I am glad I found Cali Combat and I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in learning how to defend themselves in real-world situations." -- Daniel Hernandez"

14. "Cool and innovative" (referring to my Tactical Mook Jong course) -- Sensei Erik Paulson 

15. "I've been training with Shifu Jeremiah for over 3 months now. It has helped me get outside and stay sane and active during Covid while learning valuable self defense skills. We wear masks and its very safe. Jeremiah has an insane amount of experience with many fight styles as you can see from the descrition. This is helpful because he can go thourhg and cherry pick the most effective styles and combinations that help you to stay safe against many realistic threats like knifes, sticks, guns, multiple opponents ect. I feel much more confident if I'm put in a situation where I'm fighting for my life or the lives of others, and I'm just getting started. Check it out for yourself!" -- Royce N.

16. "Owner is a fantastic teacher with a lot of experience! Be sure to check out his classes. They are well worth your time!" -- Dr. Aaron Iffland, Ph.D.

17. "I love training under Sifu Jeramiah and learning his system. He’s learned from some of the best martial art legends, and it shows. He’s extremely knowledgeable in realistic street self defense and weapons tactics, and explains the science and history behind his teachings. These classes are awesome, I absolutely recommended checking it out" -- Zakk Glass

18. "Jeremiah is a fellow PFS Instructor and he is extremely skilled and of the highest character. Anyone interested in a qualified teacher should consider Jeremiah" -- Sifu Rob Allington

19. "Worth every penny. Sifu Jeramiah Giehl brings in expertise like no other, dedication, and surgival precision to his teaching." Cihan Akcay

20. "I had an opportunity to work with Jeremiah I found it very enjoyable he has a very broad background in the martial arts which allows him the ability to match his students on their level he's very understanding and compassionate while making sure that his students know that he's there for them. He does not take any shortcuts and will make sure you have the proper strength and understanding. I look forward to working with him in the future." -- Brad Loya

21. "Great martial artist and instructor and full of knowledge. He worked with me when it came to my schedule and what I was interested in learning. I would recommend him to anyone no matter what skill level." -- Dusty Jerrell

22. "Jeramiah is a personal and great instructor. From all the lessons we have done we went fluidly from one martial art to the next and worked the fundamentals and the basics that are required As a martial artists myself for over ten years in various styles Jeremiah brings a lot to the table as an instructor and as a mentor. His martial art based knowledge is practical and useful. Coming from real world experience I highly recommend training with him." -- Nate Horn

23. "Jeramiah is a very talented and knowledgeable martial artist. I have seen him in action at a couple of seminars and I have been very impressed. I hope we cross paths again soon, so I have an opportunity to train with him. Sifu Jeramiah is a very talented and knowledgeable martial artist. I hope I get a chance to train with him again soon!" -- ​Michael Soto

24. "Ive trained with this guy since grade school, he is one of the best very understanding openminded, skill full and you will learn a lot from him 😉" -- Joseph Vincent Pelaez

25. "Love these classes! Jeramiah is an amazing instructor and is extremely knowledgeable. Highly recommend!" -- Kevin Rosenfeld

26. "Simple, Effective and Direct Martial Arts and Such great instruction!" - Sifu Pedro Rodriguez

27. "Great instructor, very knowledgeable and thorough in his approach. Highly recommended!" -- Michael Robinson

28. "We had Jeramiah come give a six week course in Krav Maga at our Synagogue. Those who came had a great time and learned a lot. I would like to thank Jeramiah for being willing to go over the same techniques as much as was needed until we felt comfortable, and never batting an eye if asked to stay a few minutes late." -- Aharon Yosef Baer

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Cali Combat Systems holds a 5-star rating on Google, Yelp, and Facebook.