
Kids Martial Arts
Kids Martial Arts Washington, MO. Your kids need to stay active, both for your sake and theirs. In fact, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily for children aged 6-17, plus at least three days of muscle- and bone-strengthening activity per week.
Kids’ martial arts classes at Gracie Barra Washington help your children reach those recommendations, in addition to providing a full-body workout while improving their coordination, reflexes, flexibility, balance, endurance, and agility. Call us right away to join at 636-266-9388 or contact us online to learn more about Kids Martial Arts in Washington, MO.
Why Gracie Barra for Kids Martial Arts?
Gracie Barra Washington offers more than just martial arts training—it’s a space where kids grow both physically and mentally. Here’s why Gracie Barra is the best choice for your child:
- The World’s #1 Martial Arts Team: With over 900 schools worldwide, including 400 in North America, Gracie Barra is a trusted name in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, offering unmatched resources and expertise.
- 61+ Years of Martial Arts Experience: Our seasoned instructors bring decades of knowledge to each class, ensuring your child receives world-class training and personal attention at every step.
- Stress-Relief and Mental Focus: BJJ is an excellent outlet for physical activity, helping kids relieve stress, enhance mental clarity, and build emotional resilience that extends beyond the mat.
- Gracie Barra Philosophy: We emphasize respect, discipline, and personal growth. Students learn to manage emotions, strengthen character, and build resilience—skills that prepare them for both physical and mental challenges.
- Accomplished Instructors: Our certified instructors are not only skilled in BJJ but are also passionate about helping kids develop both physical abilities and emotional regulation. Meet our instructors.
- Welcoming and Challenging Environment: Gracie Barra creates a safe and inclusive space where kids can challenge themselves, build confidence, and develop critical life skills like focus, perseverance, and patience—all of which contribute to stronger mental health.
- Martial Arts Tradition: Students don’t just learn techniques—they embrace the rich history of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which promotes mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and inner peace, contributing to a clearer mind and overall well-being.
- Diet Education: Proper nutrition is key to both physical performance and mental clarity. We provide guidance on healthy eating habits to support emotional stability and cognitive function. Learn more about healthy eating.
Read what students and parents have to say about our gym on our reviews page.
What Do You Teach in Kids’ Martial Arts Classes at Gracie Barra Washington?
At Gracie Barra Washington, our kids’ martial arts classes are designed to build a strong foundation in both physical and mental growth. Children are like sponges, absorbing information quickly, and through our program, they gain invaluable skills that extend far beyond the mat. As they progress, you’ll notice positive changes in their attitudes, decision-making abilities, and overall behavior after just a few classes. Plus, the built-in physicality of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu encourages kids to stay active, which leads to improvements in:
- Muscle and Bone Strength: Regular practice strengthens muscles and bones, promoting healthy physical development.
- Flexibility: Kids will improve their range of motion, helping them stay injury-free while developing agility and coordination.
- Stability: Martial arts training enhances balance and posture, improving overall stability both physically and mentally.
- Aerobic Activity: The cardiovascular benefits of martial arts increase stamina and endurance, helping kids build long-term health habits.
Many of the advantages of martial arts training aren’t as immediately noticeable, particularly for kids and teenagers. According to the American Council on Exercise, by the time they reach high school, 63 percent of children are no longer physically active. Recent research by Simmons Market Research states that nearly 65 percent of teens who participate in martial arts say that sports are an important part of their social life, and 77 percent of teens say that their participation in martial arts helps to keep them healthy.

When Can My Children Start Gracie Barra Washington Kids’ Martial Arts Classes?
Many experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, believe your children can start structured martial arts classes at any age. Some suggest that anywhere from 3-6 are usually good ages to start classes. Gracie Barra Washington has several “Little Champions” kids’ martial arts classes starting at age 3.
Our kids’ martial arts classes provide valuable lessons and ongoing mental enhancements, while providing your children the space to grow physically, emotionally, and socially. The classes even help them listen better, feel calmer, stay focused, and stand firm through tough situations.
No matter what path your kids take during or after Gracie Barra martial arts, they’ll learn to rely on skills taught in our children’s martial arts programs in everything they do:
- Determination and Perseverance: Our training instills a “never give up” mindset, helping kids push through challenges both in and out of the gym.
- Leadership and Teamwork: Whether leading or following, kids learn the value of working together, supporting each other, and taking initiative in group settings.
- Communication and Camaraderie: Martial arts fosters strong bonds among teammates, teaching kids how to communicate effectively and build lasting friendships.
- Self-Confidence in Everything They Do: As kids master new techniques and overcome obstacles, they gain the confidence to face challenges with courage and self-assurance in all areas of life.
Call us today at 636-266-9388 or connect with us online.
What Are the Advantages of Taking Gracie Barra Washington Kids’ Martial Arts Classes?
Martial arts have exceptional effects on the physical and mental health of your kids. Gracie Barra Washington martial arts classes for kids are great for:
Self-Defense From Bullies
Learning self-defense is one of the premier advantages of martial arts, especially for parents. We know that being a parent comes with the burden of worrying about your kids’ safety when you aren’t there to protect them. Approximately 1 out of every 4 kids is a victim of bullying. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is considered one of the best martial arts for kids, as well as the de facto martial art for self-defense.
Making Friends Through Teamwork
Much like team sports, martial arts classes at Gracie Barra Washington are great ways for your children to meet other kids and make new friends as they learn the art. Making new friends in class helps motivate them to continue going to classes and encourage each other. Students practice moves on each other – known as sparring – once they reach a certain level. Training and going over drills together is more beneficial than training alone, so students have to learn to work together. Call us today at 636-266-9388 or reach out to us online.
Discipline and Mindfulness
Teaching your kids to block, kick, and punch at Gracie Barra Washington does not mean they become more aggressive in their day-to-day life. Quite the opposite, in fact. A recent study by the National Library of Medicine shows that martial arts can reduce aggressive behavior as it teaches discipline and self-control. Our kids’ martial arts classes help your child grow into a well-rounded person by teaching them important life skills like patience, humility, and respect.
Boosted Confidence and Self-Esteem
Enrolling your children in kids’ martial arts classes at Gracie Barra Washington does amazing things for their confidence. The classes are rooted in teaching the importance of personal growth rather than competition, so there is no pressure for your children to compare themselves to others. Working towards and achieving goals set in classes is also a great way for them to boost their self-esteem as they progress.

Contact Gracie Barra Washington Today To Learn More About Our Kids’ Martial Arts Classes
There really is a safe, natural, and effective way to positively impact every aspect of your kids’ lives. It doesn’t take medicine, therapy, harsh actions, or cajoling your kids to change their behavior. No, it is teaching your children the above principles – including self-discipline, hard work, confidence, and respect – and the core values of Gracie Barra:
- Brotherhood: Encouraging a sense of community, where students support and lift each other up, creating a family-like atmosphere.
- Integrity: Upholding strong ethical values, both in training and in life, ensuring respect for the martial arts and its traditions.
- Development: Fostering personal growth by providing an inclusive learning environment, where students of all backgrounds can thrive and improve, no matter their age, size, or skill level.
Give us a call now at 636-266-9388 or connect with us online.
Register For the Area’s Best in Martial Arts For Kids | Gracie Barra Washington
When you are ready to keep your kids active, while improving their entire outlook, head to the centrally located gym at Gracie Barra Washington. We provide the Washington area’s best kids’ martial arts instruction. Our instructors teach a unique martial arts training etiquette for kids to allow development and camaraderie. We do not allow bullying, intimidation, or hostility in our gym. We provide a welcoming environment for the entire family.
Give us a call today at 636-266-9388 or connect with us to start kids’ martial arts classes and join the Gracie Barra Washington, MO, family.