Top-Voted Martial Arts for Kids in NYC

We're gathering your picks for the best martial arts for kids near you, including tae kwon do, jiu-jitsu, karate classes and more in NYC.

Use our map feature to find kids martial arts classes near you, and share your experience by adding a review or tip and "liking" your favorites, to help the best studios rise to the top. If you've had a great experience with a studio that's not on the list, please suggest it by using the "+" button to add a recommendation!

Your input helps fellow parents find the right fit for their families!


 
    Staten Island Judo Jujitsu Dojo
    Pin

     (615.0 mi)

    Since 1962, this Dojo has been serving its community in Staten Island. Choose from kids' classes in Judo or Jiu Jitsu where participants learn self defense, self confidence, and self awareness. Children participate in monthly tournaments to test and improve their abilities.

    Modern Martial Arts
    Pin

     (624.7 mi)

    The instructors at Modern Martial Arts teach a variety of classes that are both educational and fun. Kids will learn discipline, self-control, and coordination.

    T Kang Taekwondo USA
    Pin

     (624.8 mi)

    Tae Kwon Do can benefit kids with just about any personality type. It can help calm a child with a lot of energy to burn. It can help coax a shy child out of their shell. It's also great exercise while teaching children discipline and respect. There's Tae Kwon Do classes for Little Dragons, children, teens, and adults at all of their locations. There is also private training with Grandmaster Kang.

    Ultimate Champion's Tae Kwon Do
    Pin

     (624.9 mi)

    Ultimate Champions Tae Kwon Do strives to offer kids of all ages a healthier lifestyle. Their classes focus on self-discipline, self-confidence, and respect. All of which can help combat bullying.

    Amerikick Martial Arts Park Slope
    Pin

     (625.7 mi)

    Amerikick Karate's approach is to mix the basics of karate with gymnastics. There's high-energy music, games, and activities to introduce very young children to the concept and movements of karate. Amerikick says their method helps a child's body and mind.

    World Seido Karate
    Pin

     (625.9 mi)

    World Seido Karate serves children of all ages starting with its Pee-Wee group where the main objective is teaching good listening skills, having fun as well as learning emotional and physical strength. As kids age and move through the levels of the program these principles are reinforced with additional skills added so kids can transition into the adult program.

    Gotham Taekwon-Do and Martial Arts
    Pin

     (628.1 mi)

    Gotham is one of the most traditional Taekwon-Do schools in NYC, placing emphasis on traditional teachings and character. The head master is internationally recognized in Taekwon-Do and is constantly on the fore-front of new developments in the field. The Little Lions program for preschool focuses on basic motor and listening skills and the Juniors program for kids 5+ begins intro to the art. They are also one of the few studios that offers classes for those under 3 (in fact there is not age limit!). Those under 3 must have a parent with them.

    Next Evolution Martial Arts
    Pin

     (629.2 mi)

    Next Evolutions offers both Karate and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for kids. This school puts a lot of emphasis on safety inside the gym and building good habits outside of the gym. They strive to create a positive environment for the students and allow them to experiment and challenge themselves by practicing skills that may scare them with the support of their peers and instructors.

    America's Finest Karate and Kickboxing Academy
    Pin

     (633.0 mi)

    America's Finest Karate & Kickboxing Academy was founded in the early 1980s when the Bronx was a dangerous place. The school served as an anchor to kids in the community as they learned confidence, discipline, and leadership. While the neighborhood is much different today, the values of the school still hold true. Kids' classes are segmented into three, age-appropriate groups.

    New York Black Belt Center
    Pin

     (634.8 mi)

    Choose from the Bayside or Corona location of the New York Black Belt Center both run by Joe Lupo, Jr. The kids' program teaches the principles of Tae Kwon Do, which are courtesy, integrity, self-control, perseverance, and indomitable spirit. There's also a summer camp program as well as teen Tae Kwon Do.

    Bronx Martial Arts Academy
    Pin

     (635.9 mi)

    Bronx Martial Arts Academy offers a number of martial arts disciplines. Kids can get started with the Tiny Tigers karate program at age 4. By age 6, kids can move into the Juniors program and focus on Shotokan Karate or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

    Bronx Jiu-Jitsu
    Pin

     (637.6 mi)

    Bronx Jiu-Jitsu was founded by brothers Junior and Nate Ortega. Raised in the neighborhood they now serve, this spot has a family feel. The kids' Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program is segmented into three groups starting at age 4. Depending on age and skill level, kids learn specific techniques and positions starting with the basics before moving into advanced levels of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Primary photo:   Jyotirmoy Gupta on Unsplash

Upparent collects community-submitted recommendations and reviews, and any ideas that are shared reflect the opinions of individual contributors.