Head Instructor of Warrior Combat Arts Academy / Tandez Academy

SiFu / Guro Adrian Tandez

Self defense Jeet Kune Do Bruce Lee Warrior Combat Arts Academy Kickboxing Martial Arts Kali Escrima

Adrian Tandez, founder and head instructor, established Tandez Academy in 2005 as a family-owned business in San Carlos, California. Two years later, he relocated the academy to Mountain View, where it evolved into the renowned Warrior Combat Arts Academy, while still honoring its roots as Tandez Academy.

With over 30 years of martial arts experience, Adrian Tandez has earned prestigious titles, including Guro (teacher in Filipino) and SiFu (master in Cantonese), through his certifications and extensive training. Today, the legacy of Tandez Academy continues to thrive, offering world-class instruction and a commitment to excellence in martial arts.

Certifications and Background

Adrian is a highly regarded martial arts instructor with a comprehensive array of certifications and vast expertise. He is certified under the esteemed Guro Dan Inosanto in various martial arts disciplines, including:

- Jeet Kune Do / Jun Fan Gung Fu: This innovative martial art philosophy, founded by Bruce Lee, emphasizes practicality, efficiency, and directness in combat.

- Filipino Martial Arts (Kali Escrima): A sophisticated system recognized for its weapon-based techniques and exceptional empty-hand combat capabilities.

- Maphilindo Silat: An agile and fluid traditional martial art originating from Southeast Asia, proficient in adapting techniques to various combat scenarios.

In addition, Adrian holds the title of Full Instructor under Paul Vunak, reflecting his mastery in several key areas, including:

- Jeet Kune Do Concepts: An advanced interpretation of Jeet Kune Do principles, focusing on adaptability and effectiveness in real-world combat.

- Filipino Martial Arts: Building upon his training with Guro Inosanto, Adrian emphasizes practical applications that integrate diverse styles for optimal efficacy.

- R.A.T. (Rapid Assault Tactics): A decisive self-defense system designed for high-pressure situations necessitating swift action and sound judgment.

- Law Enforcement Defensive Tactics: Specialized techniques empowering law enforcement professionals to effectively manage and de-escalate potentially violent encounters.

As a member of the Inosanto International Martial Arts Instructors Association, Adrian is part of a distinguished network of professionals committed to excellence in martial arts instruction and training.

Teaching and Professional Engagement

Currently, Adrian instructs a diverse range of martial arts systems, including:

- Combat Submission Wrestling: A dynamic grappling discipline focused on submissions and control, providing essential skills for real-world self-defense.

- Thai Boxing / Muay Thai: A potent striking art from Thailand, characterized by its devastating knee and elbow strikes, alongside rigorous conditioning and strategic combat techniques.

- Francis Fong Wing Chun: A respected traditional style emphasizing precise techniques, reflex response, and close-range combat effectiveness.

As a notable martial arts instructor for Google in the San Francisco Bay Area, Adrian leads group classes and conducts seminars through the company’s GFit program, significantly contributing to the organization's health and wellness initiatives.

Academic Pursuits

Adrian’s commitment to personal and professional development extends beyond martial arts; he is currently undertaking a Master’s Degree in Liberal Arts at Harvard University on a part-time basis. This academic endeavor complements his extensive martial arts career, with an anticipated graduation date in May 2026, further solidifying his expertise and broadening his intellectual horizons.

Adrian with his teacher and mentor Guro Dan Inosanto

Guro Dan Inosanto was Bruce Lee's best friend and lieutenant. He became the leader of Jeet Kune Do instruction and culture after Bruce Lee's passing in 1973.