If you’re searching for martial arts classes for your kid, there are so many options to choose from in the DMV. Naturally, some fare better than others in terms of quality and value. This list compiles the best offerings available in DC, Maryland and Virginia.
For this list, we relied on Google, Yelp, Facebook and other reviews, plus direct website testimonials – the included schools and academies have all received high marks.
Onekick Martial Arts
Onekick Martial Arts is among the best offerings in the DMV, with three locations total. Instructors at each location are well regarded, have years of experience and training and care about the kids and their progress.
Onekick offers classes to kids of different age ranges, including preschool, youth and teen, as well as adult classes, each of which are focused on values, physical prowess, mental and emotional health, community and structure. Onekick also offers day and summer camps, after-school programs and even birthday parties. If you’re interested, you can try out a free trial class.
Onekick is also a consistent winner of Washington Parent Picks and is certified by Kukkiwon, or the World Taekwondo Headquarters.
Locations:
- 364 S Pickett St., Alexandria, VA
- 18311 Leaman Farm Road, Germantown, MD
- 1119 Nelson St., Rockville, MD
Himchari Martial Arts
Himchari Martial Arts has been serving Fairfax County with quality martial arts instruction since 2017, with five-star ratings on Google, Yelp and Facebook. They offer a variety of classes for kids, teens and adults, including free trials and after-school programs. Himchari’s after-school programs feature indoor games, crafts and team building exercises, for more than just day care.
Himchari Martial Arts is committed to safety, with a professional-grade indoor training facility that is carefully maintained. The instructors are certified by Kukkiwon and also have First Aid and CPR certifications, so parents can rest assured that their kids are in good hands.
Locations:
- 6050 Burke Commons Road Suite F, Burke, VA
- 9244 Old Keene Mill Road, Burke, VA
Capitol Martial Arts Academy
Capitol Martial Arts Academy in Alexandria has numerous talented coaches that provide an engaging and fulfilling martial arts curriculum. Students learn a variety of important skills, divided into the relevant age groups. Younger students learn respect, self-control and discipline, while teens and above prioritize self-defense and improved flexibility.
Capitol’s programs are specifically designed to foster confidence, a sense of community, character building and more.
Location:
- 6460 Landsdowne Centre, Alexandria, VA
Mills Martial Arts
Located in Montgomery County, Mills Martial Arts (MMA) offers both in-person and online classes in addition to after-school programs (private lessons are also available).
MMA was founded by head instructor and owner Thomas Mills, a sixth-degree black belt with decades of experience. Mills is dedicated to the practical applications of martial arts and offering a safe and enjoyable learning space. Assistant instructor Eric O’Neill also has many years of experience in Tae Kwon Do, Karate and Hapkido.
Location:
- 14674 Rothgeb Drive, Rockville, MD
Kicks Karate
Kicks Karate is a family-friendly martial arts academy in North Potomac. They offer karate classes for virtually all ages, as well as fitness kickboxing. For more than 20 years, they’ve provided thousands of students with quality instruction and flexible scheduling in a safe learning environment.
Kicks Karate offers a free trial class that can be taken in-person, outside or online. They’ve got an email list you can subscribe to for updates on specials, events, merchandise and more.
Location:
- 12109 Darnestown Road, Gaithersburg, MD
Seichou Karate
Seichou Karate in Fairfax County offers excellent karate instruction in a dojo that emphasizes social and interpersonal relationships and etiquette. Teachings are well-rounded and designed to meet the individualized aspects of students.
Seichou is committed to fitness, with a curriculum that meets national physical education standards. Supplementing their programs is the Seichou Tracker App, which assists with learning, improvement and nutrition – plus direct feedback on progress from the instructors.
Location:
- 4534B John Marr Drive, Annandale, VA
Estilo Jiu Jitsu
Estilo Jiu Jitsu is a top-tier option in DC for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The instruction, coming from third-degree black belt Luis Pantoja, offers both structured learning and opportunities for fun and games. Kids won’t just improve in a physical sense, they’ll also receive plenty of mental stimulation to bolster their critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.
Estilo has options for month-to-month, three-month and six-month classes, all of which are crafted to meet your kid’s experience level. The classes are smaller by design, to make for a “focused, personalized training experience.” There’s a free trial class and a 20% discount for additional family members that sign up.
Location:
- 770 Park Road NW T01, Washington, DC
DC Aikido Martial Arts
For parents interested in Aikido training for their kids, DC Aikido offers a beginner-friendly learning environment from experienced instructors. The curriculum was designed to meet the unique needs of different students, regardless of skill level. Classes are separated by age range, and various camps are also available.
Location:
- 2639 Connecticut Ave. NW, Suite C104, Washington, DC
Related
Seth Hagler is a freelance writer and an intern with Washington Parent. He holds a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and is currently pursuing an M.A. in Writing from Johns Hopkins University.
