Teen Martial Arts and Self Defense, Ages 12 to 16
Know who you are. Know what you’re capable of.
What the Teen program is
Forty-five minutes, twice a week, designed specifically for ages 12 to 16.
Whether they’re beginning martial arts for the first time or continuing their training, the Teen Program gives students a place to challenge themselves, develop their skills and grow in confidence during a stage of life when they’re beginning to define who they are.
The martial arts curriculum becomes increasingly advanced, with more complex striking, self-defense, takedowns, containment, joint locks and partner work. Students develop a deeper understanding of technique, theory and application while continuing to build the discipline, control and confidence that come through consistent training.
But the Teen Program is about more than becoming a skilled martial artist. These are important years for developing identity, independence and a stronger sense of self. We encourage our teens to know what they stand for, stay connected to their values, trust their own voice and recognize the influence they can have on the people and world around them.
What they gain
Self-Defense
Advanced, practical skills that develop capability, confidence and the ability to respond effectively when needed.
Theory & Application
Moving beyond memorizing techniques to understand the principles that make them work.
Confidence
Building trust in who they are, what they’re capable of and the choices they make.
Belonging
A supportive community where they can be themselves, feel valued and know they have a place.
What a class looks like
The teen years bring greater independence, stronger opinions and a growing sense of identity. Training gives students a place to challenge themselves, discover what they’re capable of and build confidence through effort, progress and achievement.
At this level, students are encouraged to think beyond simply performing a technique. They explore the theory behind what they’re learning: why something works, how principles connect and how those principles can be applied in different situations. Classes become increasingly collaborative, giving students opportunities to ask questions, problem-solve and take a more active role in their own learning.
Life skills grow with them too. Conversations become more relevant to the choices and challenges teens are navigating in their everyday lives, with an emphasis on confidence, character, leadership, staying connected to their values and standing strong in the face of peer pressure as they become increasingly independent.
Whether a student has grown up on our mats or walks through our doors for the first time as a teenager, there is a place for them here. Every student is welcomed into the class, supported as they learn and encouraged to make their training their own.
Next steps
See when this program runs on the class schedule, or book a trial class.
Other age groups: Youth martial arts, ages 9 to 11 · Adult martial arts and self defense
What families say
Melissa has an ability to connect with children, keep their attention, and make learning both fun and engaging. Her patience, encouragement and teaching style have helped my daughter grow not only in martial arts but in confidence. She is truly one of those special instructors who leaves a lasting impact on the children she teaches.
Justine Tedesco
This place is so much more than just a school, it’s a community and a family. Through her teaching and guidance my son has developed a set of skills that he will carry with him for the rest of his life. They are kind, patient and knowledgeable. I can’t say enough positive things about this place.
Tara Ruby
Start with three classes
One class tells you very little. Three tells you whether it fits. You get a proper look at the program and the uniform is yours to keep. It is worth $95 on its own, and if you decide to enrol it is not an extra cost on top.