Looking for a martial arts class for the kids, but not sure of the difference between BJJ and Capoeira, Aikido and Muay Thai? Read on for 11 types of martial arts your kids will love here in Singapore!
If you have a kid who is full of energy and is looking for an exciting indoor activity to let off some steam, then it could be time to enrol them in a martial arts class for kids! From toddler Brazilian jiu-jitsu lessons to Capoeira martial arts (perfect for kids who also love to dance), here are the martial arts classes that will being out your little warrior’s inner Karate Kid in Singapore.
Martial arts classes for kids
Brazilian jiu-jitsu
Brazilian jiu-jitsu focuses on grappling and ground fighting. We love the fabulously fun Little Samurai class at Evolve MMA, offered to kids as young as four. Our kids enjoy their lessons, where they learn fundamentals of martial arts such as self-defence strategies through fun drills and games. Older kids from seven to nine years old can take part in BJJ Kids, while those 10 to 13 years old can join BJJ Preteens.
Where: Kinex, Clarke Quay and Orchard Central
Capoeira
A dance, music and martial arts lesson all rolled into one, only at Capoeira Kids Singapore! This martial arts class for kids in Singapore hails from carnival-loving Brazil, incorporating Brazilian dance moves and natural body movements. Kids from age five will love the cool rhythms of Capoeira, and will get to play the berimbau too!
Where: 100 Turf Club Road (Horse City), Singapore, Singapore 287992
Taekwondo
Visit any community centre in your neighbourhood and you’ll be sure to find kids of all ages and sizes adopting strong, confident stances in white martial arts uniforms. Taekwondo is a Korean martial art form that combines combat and self-defence moves to develop speed, strength and balance. It’s sure to help boost your child’s self-confidence, too.
Where: Millenia Walk, Katong, River Valley, Siglap, West Coast and Tampines
Judo
This modern martial arts form from Japan teaches its pupils to execute swift moves in a no-nonsense way! Subduing an opponent is the name of the game in Judo, and whether it’s grappling, tossing or throwing, you’ll find your little ones rather keen to execute a joint lock on you!
Where: Katong and Potong Pasir
Krav Maga
Do your kids love turning your living room into a battleground? Let your little warriors take the skirmish elsewhere by heading to a Krav Maga class. These Israeli combat techniques are used by military and law enforcement, so we’re talking serious fighting skills here!
Where: Hillview, Geylang, Jurong East and Little India
Muay Thai
Muay Thai is an ancient martial art that helps kids develop quick reflexes and self-defence techniques. It’s a speedy, fun sport that uses eight points of contact (the fists, knees, elbows and feet). At Evolve MMA, kids as young as four years can learn simple combinations and drills.
Where: Kinex, Clarke Quay and Orchard Central
Silat
This graceful, traditional martial arts form is a blend of Indian and Chinese martial arts. In Silat, nifty footwork is combined with mighty kicks, and the use of weapons like the kris (small dagger) and parang (machete) are also taught once your child is proficient enough to be let loose on weaponry. Classes are recommended for kids aged six and up.
Where: Kaki Bukit Recreation Centre, 7 Kaki Bukit Ave 3, Singapore 415814
Tai Chi
Looking for a parent-child bonding activity that both of you will enjoy? Then try Tai Chi to kick-start your morning, or practise in the evening to wind up your day on a relaxing note. Often seen as a philosophy of life, Tai Chi’s slow, measured movements will certainly promise you and your tot a sound night’s sleep!
Where:1 Choa Chu Kang Grove, ITE College West, Blk 1 #02-07, Singapore 688238
Aikido
Dubbed the “way of unifying with life energy”, Aikido seeks to teach moves that defend but also protect the attacker from minimum injury. This is a non-aggressive martial arts form (we like it already!) and helps calm down wannabe Power Rangers from scrapes! Aikido is a great way for your kids to develop patience and teach them to defend themselves safely should the need arise.
Where: Sports Lifestyle Centre, 3500A Bukit Merah Central, Singapore 159837
Wing Chun
Wing Chun, which means “spring chant” in Chinese, is all about close-contact sparring. Discipline and focus are the name of the game here, and little ones (and parents!) will benefit from finding inner peace and improved concentration. The cool factor of this sport is taken up a notch thanks to Bruce Lee (surely the greatest Kung Fu legend of all time), who used to practise it.
Where: 6, Yishun Industrial St 1 Yishun Ave 9 #08-05,Yishun, Singapore
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)
If you can’t decide which martial arts your kids should practice, then mixed martial arts (MMA) could be the solution! Teens can try their hand at wrestling, boxing, kung fu or wushu in this full-on contact sport. It’s a great way to put their martial arts and athletic skills to the test and learn about various martial arts.
Where: Far East Square, Kinex, Clarke Quay and Orchard Central