Martial arts are a brilliant way for Canberra kids to build discipline, fitness and confidence while having fun. This guide explains what to expect from karate, taekwondo and BJJ classes, what they cost, and how to pick the right club. We feature highly rated local providers to help you start your search.
Karate classes in Fyshwick and Gungahlin, ACT for ages 3 and up. Programs include Mini Samurai (3–5 yrs), Tough Tigers/Juniors (6+), Teens & Adults (14+), Family classes, Tournament Squad, and Low Impact Karate. A 4-week trial with uniform is offered for ages 6 and up for $49.
Elements Grappling Academy in Braddon, ACT offers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Judo, Freestyle Wrestling, MMA/striking, Capoeira, Yoga for BJJ, and Mat Fit conditioning classes. Open seven days a week for all levels, from beginners to black belts. A free trial week is available to new members.
Canberra MMA in Garran, ACT offers mixed martial arts training including Brazilian jiu-jitsu, wrestling, and striking. Classes suit all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels. Small group classes and one-on-one sessions available. Beginner-friendly environment with experienced coaches. No explicit trial offer mentioned.
Kumiai Ryu Martial Arts in Weston, ACT offers martial arts classes for all ages, from preschoolers (3–5yrs) to adults. Programs include Karate (Little Ninjas 6–12yrs), Muay Thai/Kickboxing, MMA Sanda (Combat Kung Fu), and Jiu Jitsu. Classes are conducted in age-appropriate groups. An intro offer is available.
Goshukan Karate Academy in Forrest and Phillip, ACT offers Goju-Ryu karate for ages 4+. Programs include Little Ninjas (4–8 yrs), Juniors (9–12 yrs), Teens (13–17 yrs), and Adults (18+). Classes run Monday–Saturday across two locations. Free trial classes are available.
Sangrok World Taekwondo Academy in Mitchell, ACT offers Taekwondo for all ages (children from age 4, teens, adults, families). Sangrok Mini targets kids aged 4–8. General/family classes are mixed ages and abilities. A $59pp trial includes 4 weeks unlimited classes and a uniform. Money-back guarantee offered.
Goshukan Karate Academy Phillip Honbu offers Goju-Ryu karate classes for kids (4–8 years Little Ninjas), juniors (9–12), teens (13–17), and adults (18+). Classes run Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday evenings and Saturday mornings at Phillip ACT. Free trial classes are available.
Forza Taekwondo offers traditional taekwondo and Olympic-style sparring classes at a full-time facility in Phillip, ACT. Classes cover kicking, striking, self-defence, and forms for martial artists of all levels. No specific age ranges or trial class offers are explicitly mentioned on the website.
Martial arts cover a wide range of styles, and the classes featured on this page focus mainly on karate, taekwondo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), with some clubs also offering boxing, wing chun and mixed martial arts.
Beyond the physical skills, most reputable clubs in Canberra place a strong emphasis on respect, listening, perseverance and good behaviour — qualities that flow into school and home life.
Many clubs run dedicated 'little ninjas' or tiny-tots programs from around 3–5 years, where the focus is on coordination, following instructions and games rather than serious technique. Structured kids' classes typically start at 5–6 years, with separate groupings for primary-aged children and teens. BJJ and boxing programs often start a little older, around 6–7.
Most clubs group by both age and belt level, so your child trains with kids of similar size and ability. If you have a particular age in mind, ask the club how they structure their classes.
A typical first class lasts 30–60 minutes. Children usually start with a warm-up, then drill basic movements, practise with a partner or pads, and finish with a game or cool-down. Bowing on and off the mat, lining up and addressing instructors respectfully are part of the culture.
For a trial, your child can usually wear comfortable activewear and bare feet — you don't need to buy a uniform (gi or dobok) until you've committed. A good instructor will keep beginners moving, offer plenty of encouragement, and never push a nervous child too hard. Parents are generally welcome to watch from the sidelines.
Prices vary widely between clubs and styles, so treat the following as a general guide only — always confirm current fees directly with the provider:
Factor in some one-off costs too: a uniform ($40–$120), grading/belt-test fees ($30–$80 each time), and an association or insurance membership (often $50–$100 a year). Some clubs bundle these in, others charge separately, so ask for a full breakdown before signing up. Watch out for lock-in contracts — short-term or month-to-month options give you more flexibility.
With plenty of clubs across the ACT — from Garran and Forrest to Phillip, Calwell, Conder, Bonython, Kaleen, Amaroo, Watson and Macquarie — it pays to compare a few before committing.
Working With Children Check. Anyone instructing or supervising children in the ACT must hold a valid Working With Children Check (in the ACT this is part of the Working with Vulnerable People registration). Don't be shy about asking instructors to confirm they're registered — any professional club will be happy to.
Class sizes and ratios. Smaller groups, or an assistant instructor for larger classes, mean more individual attention and better supervision. Ask how many kids are in a typical class and how many coaches are on the mat.
Free trial class. Most clubs offer a free trial or a low-cost intro week. This is the single best way to see whether your child clicks with the instructor and the style. Book one before you pay for a term.
Reviews and reputation. Several featured clubs have strong 5★ ratings from local families. Read recent reviews, but also chat to other parents at the dojo about their experience.
Style and goals. If your child loves dynamic kicking, taekwondo may suit; if they prefer grappling and problem-solving, BJJ could be a better fit. A try-before-you-buy class helps here too.
Taking the time to visit a couple of clubs, watch a class and ask these questions will help you find a welcoming, safe and well-run program where your child can thrive.
Or read the full martial arts guide, or browse all Canberra providers.
Many Canberra clubs offer tiny-tots programs from around 3–5 years focusing on coordination and following instructions, while structured kids' classes usually begin at 5–6. BJJ and boxing often start a little older. Ask each club how they group children by age and ability.
As a general guide, expect roughly $15–$30 per casual class, $20–$40 per week for memberships, or $150–$350 per term. Add one-off costs for uniforms, grading and association fees. Always confirm current pricing directly with the club, as it varies by style and provider.
It depends on their interests. Taekwondo suits kids who love dynamic kicking and an Olympic sport pathway, karate emphasises discipline and striking patterns, and BJJ focuses on grappling and problem-solving. A free trial class is the best way to see what your child enjoys.
Yes. Anyone instructing or supervising children in the ACT must hold a valid Working With Children Check as part of Working with Vulnerable People registration. Any reputable club will happily confirm their instructors are registered — always ask.
Most Canberra clubs offer a free trial or low-cost intro week. This lets you see whether your child connects with the instructor and the style before paying for a term, and check the class size, structure and atmosphere. Always book a trial first.