Youth Programs

Why Kids Should Train Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is more than a martial art—it’s a foundation for life. At Chicago MMA, we believe every child can grow stronger, more confident, and more resilient through training on the mats.

Physical Benefits
BJJ builds coordination, balance, flexibility, and strength in a safe, fun environment. Kids learn to move with purpose while staying active and healthy.

Mental Growth
Each class challenges kids to think strategically, solve problems, and stay calm under pressure. They develop focus, discipline, and the patience to master new skills over time.

Emotional & Social Development
On the mats, kids learn respect, teamwork, and resilience. They build friendships rooted in trust and support while gaining the confidence to face challenges both in and out of the gym.

Self-Defense & Confidence
BJJ empowers kids with practical self-defense skills. They learn how to protect themselves while gaining the quiet confidence that comes from knowing they can handle tough situations.

At Chicago MMA, our kids’ BJJ program creates strong bodies, sharp minds, and confident spirits—all while keeping training fun and engaging.

Two young female martial artists practicing judo, gripping each other's sleeves during a match in a gymnasium.

Kids Program (5-9 years)

Our Kids Martial Arts program for ages 5–9 is the perfect blend of fun, fitness, and focus. At Chicago MMA, we use Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts to help kids build coordination, confidence, and discipline—skills that extend far beyond the mat. Each class includes a warm-up, technique taught through age-appropriate drills, and games that make learning exciting. Kids develop respect, teamwork, and resilience while staying active and making new friends. Whether shy or energetic, every child finds a place to shine in our supportive community. Martial arts builds strong bodies—and even stronger character—for life.

Two men are practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu on mats, one in a black rash guard and the other in a gray rash guard, engaged in a grappling position.

Youth Program (10-13 years)

Our Youth Martial Arts program for ages 9–13 helps kids build strength, confidence, and resilience during some of their most important years. At Chicago MMA, we teach Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts in a structured, supportive environment that challenges students while keeping training fun. Classes focus on advanced fundamentals, self-defense, and teamwork, while also introducing goal-setting and leadership skills. Through drills, live training, and martial arts games, kids learn discipline, perseverance, and respect—qualities that carry into school, sports, and friendships. More than just kicks and takedowns, our program builds character and prepares young athletes for life.

Two children practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, with one kid in a blue gi on top of another in a black gi on the mat, while other children and an instructor observe in the background.

High School Program

Our High School Martial Arts program gives teens the chance to train side-by-side with adults in a challenging, motivating environment. At Chicago MMA, we believe young athletes thrive when they’re pushed to rise to the level of older training partners. High school students join our adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and MMA classes, where they gain advanced skills, real-world self-defense, and a competitive edge for sports and life. Surrounded by positive role models, teens develop discipline, resilience, and confidence while being held to the same standards as adults. It’s training that builds strength, maturity, and character—on and off the mats.

Give Your Child the Gift of Confidence, Strength, and Resilience

At Chicago MMA, we believe martial arts training is one of the best investments you can make in your child’s future. Our kids’ Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and martial arts programs go far beyond physical fitness—they teach life lessons that last a lifetime.

  • Build Confidence & Self-Esteem – Kids gain real-world self-defense skills and the quiet confidence that comes from knowing they can handle themselves in tough situations.

  • Improve Focus & Discipline – Our classes sharpen attention and teach kids how to set goals, work hard, and stay committed.

  • Develop Respect & Teamwork – On the mats, kids learn to support their partners, show respect, and grow together.

  • Stay Active & Healthy – BJJ and martial arts provide a full-body workout that’s safe, fun, and keeps kids moving.

  • Learn Resilience & Perseverance – Kids discover the power of “try again”—building grit and the ability to overcome challenges both on and off the mats.

For more than 15 years, Chicago MMA has been home to champions, world-class coaches, and thousands of families who trust us with their child’s growth and development.

Choose your plan

Starter Membership

$100

4 classes per month

Biweekly Membership

$150

8 classes per month

Unlimited Membership

$200

Unlimited classes

Competition Training

+$100

Must have 1 year of experience

Invite Only

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