Martial Arts for Kids: Which Class Fits Your Child's Age?

Kids have energy to burn, and martial arts gives it somewhere great to go. Our junior programs combine just the right amount of discipline, exercise and fun. Kids learn how to work hard and be rewarded for their efforts, along with values like respect, humility and good sportsmanship.

Here's how our kids and youth classes are organized, so you can find the right fit for your child.

Four pillars behind every class

Our kids and youth programs are built on four pillars:

1. Positive lifestyle: discipline, hard work and respect
2. Physical fitness
3. Self-defense skills
4. Sport and competition

Our instructors all started martial arts as children themselves and have more than 10 years of experience coaching kids and youth.

Classes by age

Mini BJJ (ages 3–5)

A playful first step into martial arts. Mini BJJ introduces Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu through fun, movement-based games and simple techniques. The focus is on confidence, body awareness, listening skills and coordination, plus teamwork, respect and self-control.

Kids BJJ (ages 6–8)

Kids begin learning real techniques, basic positions and problem-solving on the mats while improving balance, discipline and focus. Classes include controlled drills, partner work and beginner sparring that safely introduces the idea of pressure and resistance.

Youth BJJ (ages 9–14)

Structured training for pre-teens and young teens who are ready to take their skills to the next level. Students learn effective sport and self-defense techniques through technical instruction, drilling and age-appropriate sparring, with an emphasis on respect, work ethic and perseverance.

Kids & Youth Kickboxing (ages 6–14)

The fundamentals of striking: punching, kicking, footwork and defense, taught through high-energy drills, partner exercises and controlled pad work. There's no head contact and no heavy sparring.

How to choose

• Start with age. Classes are grouped by age, so your child trains with kids at a similar stage.
• Follow their interests. Kids who love to wrestle and tumble often enjoy jiu-jitsu, while kids who love to move and hit pads may prefer kickboxing.
• Check the schedule. Find class times on the Scarborough and Markham schedules.
• Try it first. Your child's first kids or youth class is free.

Book a free class

The best way to know if a class is right is to try one. Register for your child's free class, arrive 5–10 minutes early for a quick tour and introduction from our staff, and let the fun begin. Questions first? Contact us and we'll be happy to help.

You can learn more about all of our junior programs on the Kids & Youth page.