Readers Choice: It's Warrior Spirit Kenpo For Kids!

This week, Los Altos Patch asked readers .

And while martial arts studios are like yoga studios—it's a highly personal decision that depends on how well one fits with the style practiced and the chemistry with the instructors—it's always fun to see what happens in an informal vote.

In the poll that ended at 9 a.m. Friday, readers chose . 

The serene little studio in the Loyola Corners storefront, is part of a little ecosystem of businesses that work together to put on events with each other every so often. They include , , , and . 

"I am thrilled and I'm humbled," said Rico España, owner of Warrior Spirit. He said he knows and respects Raoul Fabela, the owner of Prodigy Martial Arts, which has a long history and track record in Los Altos. 

To see the results of the poll, .

Warrior spirit teaches all ages, but it has carved out a special niche with all kids, and with special kids.

"We're known for going above and beyond with kids," he said. "We help them with bully problems, we help them with their homework."

Warrior Spirit is know for teaching special needs kids, and accepts kids that other schools might not. Curently, they are teaching kids with cerebral palsy, all ranges of autism, and Down Syndrome. "We have a great staff."

All the schools here all teach different styles, España said. "We're very interested in kids really knowing what they're doing, so we focus on fundamentals of observation and awareness," and that includes being socially aware, he said.

Warrior Spirit received 60 percent of the votes, followed by Prodigy Martial Arts, located on El Camino Real, with 25 percent of the vote, followed by Foothill Martial Arts in south Los Altos with 10 percent of the vote. United Studios of Self Defense on State Street received 5 percent. This is an informal, non-scientific poll.

One Patch reader wanted to remind community members that the Los Altos Recreation Department also sponsors some excellent martial arts classes at reasonable rates.