Why Jeet Kune Do

Why adults choose Jeet Kune Do

A martial art you can start at any point in life, taught in small groups by an instructor who knows your name.

01

Any age, any fitness level

Start at any age and fitness level — complete beginners welcome.

02

Practical from day one

Practical skills from the first class: striking, footwork and defence.

03

Personal coaching

Small classes with personal corrections from Sigung Ricardo Vargas.

04

No pressure

No lock-in contract, and sparring is never compulsory.

Choosing a martial art

Not sure which martial art to choose?

Many people compare karate, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, MMA, kung fu or boxing. Each has its strengths. Jeet Kune Do is Bruce Lee's own art: he drew on Wing Chun, Western boxing and fencing to build one practical system focused on real situations. If you want effective self-defence and to train at your own pace, it's a great place to start.

Want to compare in more detail? Read the best martial art for self-defence or starting martial arts as an adult. Already know you want JKD? See our Jeet Kune Do classes in Melbourne.

Bruce Lee, creator of Jeet Kune Do
Bruce Lee · Jeet Kune Do
Your first class

How your first class works

Your first class is free and lasts 60 minutes. Here is what happens, from booking to the mat. More detail in your first Jeet Kune Do class.

01 · Book

A call within 24 hours

Leave your details in the short form. Sigung Ricardo Vargas calls you within 24 hours for a short chat about your goals, any training background or injuries, and books a class time that suits you.

02 · Bring

What to bring

Comfortable sports clothes you can kick in, a water bottle and a small towel. Group classes train barefoot. You don't need gloves, pads or a uniform.

03 · Train

What you'll do

A warm-up, the on-guard stance, footwork, the straight lead punch and controlled partner drills. No sparring and no fitness test.

Fill in the short form →

Getting here

Where we train in Melbourne

Our school is in Maidstone, in Melbourne's inner west — about 10 km from the CBD, close to Footscray, Maribyrnong and Sunshine.

Address
Unit 6 / 72-80 Hampstead Rd, Maidstone VIC 3012
Parking
Free parking at Hampstead Rd
Bus
Route 406 — stop Wattle Rd/Hampstead Rd
Phone
0459 785 073

Easy to reach from Footscray, Yarraville, Sunshine, Maribyrnong, Moonee Ponds and Essendon.

Get directions on Google Maps →

Prices

Simple prices, no lock-in contract

Your first class is free. After that, choose a pack or an unlimited membership. There is an enrolment fee and no lock-in contract. Full details on The Way.

Class packA$175

5 classes

Class packA$350

12 classes

MembershipA$240

Monthly Unlimited

MembershipA$650

3-Month Unlimited

Kim Linton5 months ago
I had a number of sessions with Ricardo at Jeet Kune Do Legacy Academy and gained so much more than just self-defence skills. Ricardo taught me how to read a room, become more aware of my surroundings, remove myself from potentially dangerous situations, and how to respond calmly if trouble does find me.

As a woman, the training significantly increased my confidence and helped me reconnect my mind and body in a way I didn’t expect. Ricardo creates an environment that is supportive, practical, and empowering.

Thank you, Ricardo, for such an incredible gift and learning experience.
Stephen Degenaroa year ago
I’ve had the privilege of training under Sigung Ricardo Vargas for the past three years, both in private and group sessions—and I can honestly say, it’s been an incredible journey. I feel truly fortunate, as do many others, to experience his deep knowledge, genuine passion, and unique approach to teaching.

From day one, Ricardo greets you with warmth, patience (seriously, the patience of a saint!), and an uncanny ability to teach students of *all* ages and experience levels. Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned martial artist, he breaks down the techniques, principles, and philosophy of Bruce Lee’s Jeet Kune Do in a way that’s clear, accessible, and inspiring.

With over 20 years of experience, Sigung Ricardo brings a rare combination of technical expertise, crystal-clear instruction, and a deep passion for the art. He adapts his teaching to match each student’s learning style and stays laser-focused on helping you grow—not just as a martial artist, but as a person.

Whether you're stepping onto the mat for the first time, returning after a break, or coming from another discipline looking for a holistic, practical, and philosophical martial arts approach—Jeet Kune Do Legacy Academy is the place to be. I highly recommend connecting with Sigung Ricardo Vargas and joining this amazing, welcoming community of practitioners.
Paul Chiaravallea year ago
I have been involved in martial all my life, and for the last coming up to 6 years I have had the privilege of training under Sifu Ricardo Vargas getting to understand and apply Bruce Lee's Jeet Kune Do. As a teacher he is the most genuine instructor I have come across, not only in teaching the art but also in life's journey, getting a real perspective on where you are and what one can achieve through hard work and determination. I am honoured to have Sifu as an instructor and mentor.

If your a martial artist or someone looking to start learning the art this a great opportunity to learn from a 2nd generation student of Bruce Lee. It will be a journey not only physical but mentally and spiritual.

Thank you Sifu for a great ongoing journey.
Chris Papadopoulosa year ago
I discovered JKD academy in May and all i can say what an amazing experience. The group classes are great, everyone is there to learn and every single student is so supportive. A welcome handshake at the begining of the night and “good job” handshake at the end. You’re not only learning a new skill, you’re training the body and most importantly the mind. I highly recommend joining and surrounding yourself with great people.
Carla year ago
I have been training at the academy for a while now. Sigung Vargas is the best teacher that I have come across. From the very beginning he shows care and understanding and helps you grow as an individual. At the beginning I had zero confidence in myself and now I probably have too much. If you are looking to discover yourself or join a family of like minded individuals, this is the place.
FAQ

Questions people ask

Am I too old to start martial arts?

Not at all. Many people begin martial arts in their forties, fifties or later. You may need more recovery time and a gentler start, but skill, coordination and fitness all improve with consistent practice. Tell your instructor about any injuries, and check with your doctor first if you have a medical condition.

Do I need to be fit?

No. You start at your own level and the instructor scales every drill. Fitness comes from training — you don't need it before your first class.

Is there sparring?

Sparring is only introduced at intermediate and advanced level, always under the instructor’s supervision, and it is never compulsory. Beginners work on stance, footwork, the straight lead, striking, kicking and an introduction to trapping.

Can women join?

Yes. Women train alongside men in the regular group classes on Tuesday and Thursday at 7 pm and Saturday at 9:30 am. A women-only workshop is also being planned — see women’s self-defence.

How old do I need to be?

Classes are for teens and adults from 14 years old. We do not run kids’ classes.

How much does it cost?

Your first class is free. After that, options start at A$175 for 5 classes, with a 12-class pack (A$350), Monthly Unlimited (A$240) and 3-Month Unlimited (A$650). There is an enrolment fee and no lock-in contract. Details on The Way.

Your first class is free

Start with one free class.

Leave your details and Sigung Vargas will call you within 24 hours to book a class time that suits you. No payment, no commitment.

Book Your Free Class →
Book Your Free Class