Our Story
Griffin Martial Arts was founded by Lester Griffin to provide high-quality martial arts training to the Hemet and San Jacinto communities. With decades of experience and a passion for teaching, Lester established a school where students of all ages and skill levels could learn effective techniques in a supportive environment.
Our academy has grown to become a respected training center where we teach Jeet Kune Do, Grappling, Muay Thai, Savate, and Kali. We pride ourselves on maintaining the traditional values of martial arts—discipline, respect, and perseverance—while incorporating modern training methods.
Today, Griffin Martial Arts serves students from San Jacinto, Hemet, and surrounding areas, providing not just martial arts instruction but a path to personal growth and self-improvement.
Our Philosophy
At Griffin Martial Arts, we believe that martial arts training extends far beyond physical techniques. Our philosophy centers on developing the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
We emphasize:
- Technical Excellence - Mastering proper form and effective techniques
- Physical Conditioning - Building strength, flexibility, and endurance
- Mental Development - Fostering focus, discipline, and resilience
- Practical Application - Ensuring techniques work in real-world situations
- Continuous Growth - Always learning, always improving
We create an environment that challenges our students to push beyond their perceived limitations while maintaining a supportive, respectful atmosphere where everyone feels welcome.
Student Creed
I will strive to develop myself in a positive manner.
I will use what I learn at this Academy constructively and defensively; I will act with courtesy and respect at all times.
I will remember that the goals of this Academy are to develop myself physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Using the Martial Arts as a way to achieve these goals.
Academy Rules
- 1 All Instructors, at all times, shall be referred to as "Sifu" (Chinese for Instructor), or "Guro" (Filipino for Instructor), or Sir or Ma'am.
- 2 Pay respects every time you enter and leave the work area.
- 3 No profanity or loud, aggressive behavior will be tolerated. Attitude is very important!
- 4 No gum chewing, food, etc. is allowed in the classroom.
- 5 There will be no street fighting allowed while enrolled in this Academy: accept for moments of survival.
- 6 In all classes, you must wear the Academy uniform (Academy shirt and black sweat pants or shorts). To be eligible to test for your next phase patches and bars must be displayed on sashes, according to rank.
- 7 Make sure your uniform is clean: including your shoes. Do not wear torn or soiled garments to class.
- 8 You must keep your finger and toe nails short to prevent injury to other students.
- 9 Jewelry should not be worn for the safety of all students.
- 10 Absolutely, no un-authorized teaching of what you do here. You will receive your rank and could be terminated. Instructors must be certified to teach!
- 11 NO sparring without any supervision from an Instructor and then only with proper equipment.
- 12 Private lessons if needing to be cancelled, will require a 24 hour notice to re-schedule, or you will forfeit your lesson.
- 13 Respect should always be shown to the Instructor, as well as other class members, at all times.
- 14 When the Instructor is teaching, it is mandatory that he or she have the attention of all students. Talking to fellow students at the same time as the instructor is talking is will be limited.
- 15 Regardless of attendance, you will be charged for the current month.
- 16 You will not go to other schools or gyms and show off!
- 17 You will not teach without the Head Instructor's permission.
- 18 All students are on probation regardless of rank.
Black Belt Club
Join our exclusive Black Belt Club and take your martial arts journey to the next level. Members receive special benefits including discounts on seminars and merchandise, exclusive training opportunities, and recognition within our martial arts community.
Regular price $99.95 - Limited time offer until September 1st, 2006
Our Instructor
Lester Griffin
Head Instructor & Founder
Lester Griffin is a professional martial artist and certified instructor with over 30 years of experience. He teaches Jeet Kune Do, Kali, Silat, Wing Chun Kung Fu, Savate and many other arts.
Learn MoreOur Training Space
Griffin Martial Arts provides a functional training environment where you can focus on learning martial arts without distractions.
Our training space includes:
- Training mats for grappling practice
- Basic striking equipment
- Training weapons for Kali instruction
- Convenient central location in San Jacinto
- Focused environment for learning
Our location at 2539 S. San Jacinto Ave. in San Jacinto is easily accessible from throughout the Hemet and San Jacinto Valley, with parking available.
Experience Griffin Martial Arts For Yourself
Join us for a free introductory class and discover the difference professional instruction makes.