Gi
Adults · all levels
Train in the kimono and use it for grips and submissions. Patient, technical, detail-first jiu jitsu.
- Mon–Wed6:30 AM
- Tue · Thu6:30 PM
WESTSIDE Costa Mesa, CA
Welcome to KŌBŌ Studios
MARTIAL ARTS WORKSHOP BASED IN COSTA MESA GI AND NO GI JIU JITSU | BEGINNERS WELCOME - every black belt started as a white belt.
Free trial week for Orange County residents · unlimited classes, every program
Programs
JIU JITSU FOR ALL
Whether your goal is to just get in shape, train for self-defense or compete at a professional level, we have a program for you.
No-Gi
Adults · all levels
Rash guard and shorts. Speed, control and body positioning, without cloth grips.
- Mon · Wed6:30 PM
- Tue–Thu11:00 AM
- Thu · Fri6:30 AM
KŌBŌ Kids
Ages 4–7 and 8–12
Movement, focus, confidence and discipline. Structured, fun classes where kids learn real jiu jitsu in a safe environment.
- Ages 4–7 · Mon–Thu5:15–6:00 PM
- Ages 8–12 · Mon–Thu5:15–6:15 PM
Open Mat
All levels · gi or no-gi
Weekend open mats for rolling and drilling. Friday's Open Practice is a members' hybrid of open drilling, Q&A and sparring.
- Open mat · Sat · Sun11:00 AM
- Open practice · Fri11:00 AM
Schedule · from Gymdesk
This week on the mat:
Monday
Today- 6:30–7:45 AM GiNick Bohli
- 5:15–6:00 PM KŌBŌ Kids 4–7No-GiNicholas Reiner, Shaun Lopez
- 5:15–6:15 PM KŌBŌ Kids 8–12No-GiNicholas Reiner, Shaun Lopez
- 6:30–7:45 PM No-GiNick Bohli
No classes match this filter.
Tuesday
Today- 6:30–7:45 AM GiNicholas Reiner
- 11:00 AM–12:15 PM No-GiNick Bohli
- 5:15–6:00 PM KŌBŌ Kids 4–7GiNicholas Reiner, Jennifer Escareno
- 5:15–6:15 PM KŌBŌ Kids 8–12GiNicholas Reiner, Jennifer Escareno
- 6:30–7:45 PM GiYuji Kanbayashi
No classes match this filter.
Wednesday
Today- 6:30–7:45 AM GiNick Bohli
- 11:00 AM–12:15 PM No-GiNick Bohli
- 5:15–6:00 PM KŌBŌ Kids 4–7No-GiNicholas Reiner, Shaun Lopez
- 5:15–6:15 PM KŌBŌ Kids 8–12No-GiNicholas Reiner, Shaun Lopez
- 6:30–7:45 PM No-GiNick Bohli
No classes match this filter.
Thursday
Today- 6:30–7:45 AM No-GiNicholas Reiner
- 11:00 AM–12:15 PM No-GiNick Bohli
- 5:15–6:00 PM KŌBŌ Kids 4–7GiNicholas Reiner, Jennifer Escareno
- 5:15–6:15 PM KŌBŌ Kids 8–12GiNicholas Reiner, Jennifer Escareno
- 6:30–7:45 PM GiYuji Kanbayashi
No classes match this filter.
Friday
Today- 6:30–7:45 AM No-GiNick Bohli
- 11:00 AM–12:15 PM Open PracticeNo-Gi · members · Open drilling, Q&A and sparringNick Bohli
No classes match this filter.
Saturday
Today- 11:00 AM–12:30 PM Open MatGi or no-gi
No classes match this filter.
Sunday
Today- 11:00 AM–12:30 PM Open MatGi or no-gi
No classes match this filter.
Times are Pacific. Book, cancel and check holiday changes in Gymdesk.
The name
KŌBŌ means two things:
Workshop
工 kō · work房 bō · shop
An atelier, where craft gets made. Technical, detail-first jiu jitsu, built one rep at a time.
Attack and defend
攻 kō · attack防 bō · defend
The interplay between the two. The essense of jiu jitsu.
High-level jiu jitsu built on technical excellence and real-world experience.
Our mission is to help students sharpen their skills, reach their goals and embrace the gentle art as a lifelong practice. Whether you're training to compete or simply to better yourself, KŌBŌ gives you the environment, the instruction and the community to support your journey, on and off the mats.
Coaches
Taught by people who love teaching
DECADES OF COMBINED TRAINING AND TEACHING EXPERIENCE MIXED WITH THE PASSION FOR HELPING OTHERS REALIZE THEIR FULL POTENTIAL
Nick Bohli
Black belt · 3rd degree
Born and raised in Baltimore, MD, Nick has been a lifelong practitioner of martial arts. After studying traditional martial arts during his childhood, he discovered jiu jitsu at the age of 17 and completely fell in love with the style.
Nick’s biggest passion is learning and being able to share that knowledge with others. To see them be able to apply that knowledge and build themselves into stronger, more confident and all-around better people is the ultimate reward.
- GiMon · Wed
- No-GiMon–Fri
- Open PracticeFri
- Private lessonsBy appointment
Yuji Kanbayashi
Black belt
Yuji Kanbayashi brings over 16 years of experience with a deep technical background shaped by more than a decade of training at one of the world’s top academies. Yuji’s teaching reflects his belief that Jiu-Jitsu means something different to everyone, and that no one path is more valid than another.
With an easygoing style and a focus on enjoyment over ego, Yuji helps students find their own rhythm in Jiu-Jitsu which makes every session not just a workout, but something to look forward to.
- GiTue · Thu
- Private lessonsBy appointment
Nicholas Reiner
Brown belt
Nick has spent the past six years coaching students of all ages — kids, teens, and adults, from hobbyists to dedicated competitors — many of whom have reached the top of the podium under his guidance. His coaching style is built on precision, efficiency, and intentionality. Every class is structured with purpose, ensuring that training time is never wasted and that students leave with a deeper understanding of technique, movement, and the concepts behind them.
As both an athlete and instructor, Nick’s mission is to help others build confidence, think differently, and develop their own unique expression of jiu-jitsu. He strives to show students how to view the art through a new conceptual lens, empowering them to grow their own understanding and make jiu-jitsu truly their own.
- KŌBŌ KidsMon–Thu
- GiTue
- No-GiThu
- Private lessonsBy appointment
Also coaching: Shaun Lopez, Jennifer Escareno, Trevor Reyna Norman.
Private lessons
One-on-one with Nick Bohli, Yuji Kanbayashi or Nicholas Reiner.
Catch up as a new member, work on one part of your game, or get ready for a tournament.
OUR WORKSHOP
WHERE WE HONE OUR CRAFT
Wall-to-wall mats and padded pillars on one side. A lounge with leather couches, a wood-slat front desk and shoji screens on the other.
FAQ
Questions, answered
Still wondering about something? Send us a DM or stop by the academy to say hello.
What is jiu jitsu?
Jiu jitsu is a martial art focused on grappling and ground control. It's all about using technique and leverage to control or submit an opponent. At KŌBŌ, we train with purpose, discipline and respect, and have a lot of fun along the way.
I've never done any martial arts before. Can I still join?
Absolutely. Most people who walk through our doors are starting from scratch. Our beginner-friendly classes are designed to help you build a strong foundation, no experience necessary.
What should I wear to my first class?
If you have a gi (the traditional uniform), bring it. If not, no worries: wear something comfortable, like a t-shirt and athletic pants. We have loaner gis for your trial class. Just bring water, and we'll take care of the rest.
Is KŌBŌ kid-friendly?
Very much so. Our kids' program is all about movement, focus, confidence and discipline. Classes are structured, fun and designed to keep kids engaged while learning real jiu jitsu in a safe environment.
Is KŌBŌ just for hobbyists, or do you train competitors too?
Both. We're proud to be a high-level training environment for those who want to compete, but you don't have to compete to train hard. Whether you're here for fitness, fun or to chase gold medals, we take every student's progress seriously. Everyone gets quality training at KŌBŌ.
Do you offer private lessons?
Yes. Nick Bohli, Yuji Kanbayashi and Nicholas Reiner each teach one-on-one lessons, whether you're catching up as a new member or getting ready for a tournament. Book one online or message us on Instagram.
Am I too old or out of shape to start?
Nope. You're never too old to begin. Jiu jitsu meets you where you are. We've got students in their teens, 30s, 50s and beyond. If you're willing to show up and put in the effort, you're welcome here.
What's the difference between gi and no-gi?
In gi classes you wear a kimono and can use it for grips and submissions. No-gi is practiced in rash guards and shorts, focusing more on speed, control and body positioning without cloth grips. We offer both to help you develop a well-rounded game.
Do you offer a free trial?
Yes. Orange County residents get a free trial week: unlimited classes in every program, no pressure. Come check out the space, meet the team and see what training at KŌBŌ feels like.
How do I get started?
Sign up for your free week online, or stop by the academy to say hello. We'll walk you through everything you need to know. No pressure: just step on the mat and take the first step.
From the members
I feel like the luckiest purple belt in the world to have found a home here.Jenn Escareno
I can't wait for the new gym to open! Yuji focuses on the details and creates an incredible environment for training. They always say the students are a reflection of their teachers and that's definitely the case here. Everyone is super cool and great training partners. Thanks Yuji! Yeww!
Training under Professor Nick and Professor Yuji has been an incredible experience. Both are truly world-class instructors. Their technique is beautiful to watch and even more inspiring to learn from. What stands out most is their kindness, patience, and genuine passion for teaching. They've not only deepened my understanding of jiu jitsu but also completely renewed my love for the art. I've been training jiu jitsu for 6 years and I hit a slump, I began looking for something more and I feel like the luckiest purple belt in the world to have found a home here.
Beginning the jiu jitsu journey can be intimidating, and to start off with someone like Yuji was such a blessing. Someone who is so patient, so informative, and kind. Then you realize that they're also such an assassin. It's just such a treat. We've trained a lot with higher belts, and they have all said that Yuji is the one who is teaching the secrets that they wish they would've known when they were learning. 10 out of 10 would recommend.
Instagram · @kobo_studios
KEEP UP WITH KŌBŌ
Our most active channel: class moments, schedule updates and new drops. Tag #kobostudios.
Preview tiles from the academy. On the live site this grid shows the newest posts from @kobo_studios automatically.
Competition
PRO TRAINING: GI & NO-GI
Competitive practice for those who want to compete or challenge themselves. Train in a variety of sport specific and situational rounds while you learn the rules of sport jiu jitsu.
Extra rounds
- Open mat · Sat · Sun11:00 AM
- Open practice · Fri11:00 AM
Friday's Open Practice is for members, in no-gi. The weekend open mats are gi or no-gi.
Gi
Grips, guard play and pressure, in the kimono.
No-Gi
Speed, scrambles and control, without cloth grips.
Start here
FIRST WEEK ON US
Trial Week for Orange County residents: unlimited classes in every program, no pressure.
Sign up online
A couple of minutes in Gymdesk: your details, the waiver and a photo for check-in.
Dress for it
A t-shirt and athletic shorts with no zippers or pockets. We have loaner gis in limited sizes available for gi trail classes. Please bring a water bottle.
Step on the mat
Come to any class that week. No experience needed, just show up. We'll give you a tour and a quick breakdown once you're here.
Memberships
Adults
- UnlimitedUnlimited classes, month to month $225/ month per month
- Annual unlimited$2,400 paid for the year $200/ month per month
- Open mat drop-inOne open mat $10/ visit per visit
Kids
- UnlimitedUnlimited classes, month to month $175/ month per month
- 8 classes a monthUnused classes don't roll over $125/ month per month
- Drop-inOne class $20/ class per class
Prices as listed in Gymdesk, where you sign up. Monthly plans bill each month; the annual plan is paid once for the year.
Ways to pay
CardBank account
Pay online
Sign up, renew or buy gear online with a card or straight from your bank account.
Manage your membershipVenmo the academy
Pay from the Venmo app. Add what it's for in the note.
Scan the Venmo code at the front desk.
Zelle from your bank
Send it straight from your bank's app.
Scan the Zelle code at the front desk.
Pro shop
Wear the workshop.
Tees, rashguards and shorts from the rack in the lounge. Order here, pick it up at the front desk.
Daruma Tee
$30
Burgundy
Albino & Preto × KŌBŌ Tee
$35
Heavy Faded Black
Albino & Preto × KŌBŌ Women's Crop
$35
Heavy Faded Black
Long-Sleeve Rashguard
$55
Black
Combat Shorts5" slit
$55
Black
Pick up at the front desk · Apple Pay, Google Pay, card, Venmo or Zelle
Apps
Free apps for the mat.
Made at KŌBŌ and free for everyone. They open in your browser, and you can add them to your home screen so they work like a regular app.
Free
KŌBŌ Mat Timer
A round timer for rolling, drilling and shark tank, or a match timed for your belt. Set your rounds and rest, pick a bell, gong or announcer, and set the phone at the edge of the mat. The screen stays on, and it works with no signal.
Open the timerVisit
Come train with us.
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
- Classes
- Weekdays from 6:30 AM
Open mat Saturday and Sunday, 11 AM - info@kobostudios.com
- @kobo_studios
- Nearby
- Minutes from Newport Beach, Huntington Beach and Santa Ana.
