Kids Classes

Building Tomorrow's Champions Today

Martial arts is one of the best investments you can make in your child's development — not just physical, but mental, emotional, and social. At Excel Combat Academy, our kids program is designed from the ground up for children, not adapted from adult classes.

Every class reinforces three core values:

Discipline — showing up, paying attention, doing the work
Respect — for their coaches, their training partners, and themselves
Confidence — the quiet kind that comes from knowing you can handle challenges

What Kids Learn

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for Kids

BJJ is especially powerful for children because it teaches them to handle conflict without striking — a critical anti-bullying tool. Kids learn:

Safe falling and rolling techniques (ukemi)
Basic takedowns and clinch control
Escapes from common bullying positions (bear hug, headlock, mount)
Basic submission holds and how to tap out safely
Positional control and guard

Muay Thai Fundamentals for Kids

Muay Thai for kids focuses on technique, coordination, and conditioning — with sparring introduced gradually and with full protective gear. Kids learn:

Basic punching combinations with correct form
Teep (front kick) and round kick mechanics
Footwork, head movement, and defense
Padwork fundamentals with a training partner
Cardio and agility through martial arts drills

Our Kids Class Structure

Classes are structured, fun, and just challenging enough to keep kids engaged:

Warm-up games — fun drills that build coordination and team spirit
Technique of the day — one focused skill, broken into clear steps
Partner drilling — practicing the technique with a classmate
Conditioning games — fun activities that build fitness without feeling like exercise
Character moment — a brief lesson on a value like respect, honesty, or perseverance
Cool-down and recognition — celebrating effort and progress

The Belt System for Kids

Kids progress through a belt system that recognizes not just technical skill, but character development. Belt promotions are moments of pride — for the child and the family.

When kids earn a stripe or a new belt, they know they genuinely earned it.

What Parents Tell Us

"My daughter has grown so much in confidence and discipline since joining. The instructors truly care about each student's development both on and off the mat."

"My son used to struggle with focus at school. Since he started training, his teachers have noticed a real difference. He's calmer, more focused, and proud of himself."

"Teacher is very kind and always welcome." — Amaya Núñez, Parent

Kids training at Excel Combat Academy

Enroll Your Child Today

Give your child the gift of confidence, discipline, and lifelong self-defense skills. Start with two free weeks — no commitment, no pressure.

See the transformation for yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

01 What age can kids start?

We typically welcome kids starting around age 5. Our youngest students begin with our foundational kids program that focuses on basic movement, coordination, and listening skills before progressing to martial arts techniques. Contact us and we can tell you the best fit for your child's age and energy level.

02 Is it safe? Won't my child get hurt?

Safety is our top priority. Kids classes are completely separate from adult sparring. We use age-appropriate protective gear and all contact is controlled and supervised. Our coaches are experienced with children and know how to create a safe, fun environment. Minor bumps happen — serious injuries don't.

03 Will martial arts make my child more aggressive?

The opposite, actually. Martial arts teaches self-control, emotional regulation, and respect. Kids who train consistently learn that their skills come with responsibility — and they're far less likely to misuse them. Many parents report their kids become calmer, more patient, and more respectful at home and school.

04 Can martial arts help with ADHD or behavioral challenges?

Many parents see significant improvements in focus, impulse control, and behavior after their children begin training. The structured environment, clear expectations, physical outlet, and positive reinforcement can be genuinely therapeutic for children with ADHD or behavioral challenges.

05 Do both parents need to be there for the first class?

Not at all — one parent or guardian is fine. We do ask a parent or guardian to stay for the first class so they can meet Coach David and our team, understand the program, and feel comfortable. After that, drop-off is completely fine.

06 What should my child wear to the first class?

Comfortable athletic clothing — shorts and a t-shirt work great. No shoes needed on the mat. We'll provide all equipment for the free trial. If your child continues, we'll help you get a gi (uniform) and any necessary protective gear.