Choosing an activity for your child is about more than filling an afternoon. Many parents are looking for something that builds confidence and coordination, and the habit of listening and trying again when something is hard. A well-run martial arts class can help with all of those.
This guide covers what children can gain from martial arts, what to look for in a class, and how the kids programs work at Marrickville Martial Arts Club.
What children can gain from martial arts
- Confidence — from learning a skill step by step and seeing it improve
- Listening and focus — following instructions and paying attention to a partner
- Respect — taking turns, training safely and looking after a partner
- Coordination and fitness — balance, strength and movement through drills and games
- Resilience — keeping going when a technique doesn’t work the first time
Every child is different, and what they get out of it depends on the child, the class and how often they train.
What to look for in a kids class
- Sessions that are shorter than adult classes and built around drills and games
- Clear rules about safety and how partners treat each other
- A coach who explains things simply and keeps the group engaged
- A trial class before you commit
- Straight answers to your questions about age groups and what to wear
Kids programs at MMAC
Kids classes are for ages 5–12 and run in three martial arts, all taught from the beginning:
- BJJ KIDS — Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: positions, escapes and safe ground control
- Kids Muay Thai — stance, basic strikes and pad work
- Kids Wrestling — stance, takedowns and falling safely. There is also a wrestling session shared with adults, listed as “Wrestling adults + Kids”
Every class has clear rules. Children learn to listen, take turns, train safely with a partner, and keep trying when something is difficult.
A first kids class
- Meet the coach and the group
- A warm-up game to break the ice
- One or two techniques, taught simply
- Partner drills and a structured finish
What to wear and bring
- Comfortable sportswear without zips, buttons or pockets
- A water bottle
- Long hair tied back, and no jewellery
Ages and booking
MMAC kids classes are for ages 5–12. If you’re not sure which class suits your child, contact the club and we’ll recommend one. The free trial works the same way for kids as for adults: one class, booked through GymMaster.
See the kids programs page for more detail, and the live timetable for class times.
