The martial arts are about so much more than self-defense. In fact, having fun, building physical and mental strength, and developing discipline are key components of any martial art discipline, and when it comes to what and where kids can study, New York is flush with options. From Karate to Judo to Krav Maga and beyond, scroll though to discover some of the top martial arts for kids in the city, and where to get kicking. Chop chop!

For Hitting the Bag: Boxing

When you think of martial arts, you might not have boxing in mind. Boxing is largely misunderstood as a sport in which people punch each other. But that’s not quite the point! Boxing requires physical strength, restraint, and the ability to remain calm and collected as you try to stay a few moves ahead of your opponent.

But yes — boxing is a high contact sport! However, students train extensively to reach a skill level high enough to even begin sparring, and all boxers wear protective gear and helmets if they do step in the ring.

Gleason’s Gym, one of New York’s most esteemed boxing gyms (and the oldest active boxing gym in the US) offers boxing classes for kids, ages six and up, with the experienced coach Michael Kozlowski. Over his 27 years of teaching experience with kids, Kozlowski has seen a number of his students go on to become champions. Even if a career in boxing is not what you have in mind for your kid, Gleason’s is an authentic boxing experience and great place to learn.

If Gleason’s feels a bit too gritty for your liking, you might prefer to enroll your little boxers in Fight Factory instead. This gym is much more kid-friendly, and has special membership prices for children (all tryouts are free!). Fight Factory offers other types of martial arts too, but it’s one of the most welcoming places for kids to try the black sheep of martial arts.

Gleason’s Gym
77 Front St.
Dumbo
(718) 797-2872
Online: gleasonsgym.net

Fight Factory
24 Cobeck Court
Gravesend
(646) 401-5657
Online: fightfactoryny.com

Photo: via Gleason’s Gym

Do your kids take a martial art? Tell us where in the comments below!

—Yuliya Geikhman

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