Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gives kids the tools to handle themselves — on the mat and in life. Discipline, respect, resilience, and real skills they'll carry forever.
BJJ teaches kids how to control a situation without striking. They learn to escape, control, and de-escalate — skills that actually work when it matters.
Nothing builds self-belief like earning it. Every stripe, every promotion, every hard-fought round on the mat teaches kids they're capable of more than they think.
BJJ demands attention to detail and patience. Kids learn to listen, follow instruction, and stay present — skills that translate straight to the classroom.
On the mat, everyone bows in and shakes hands. Kids train with partners of all sizes and ages, learning respect, humility, and how to be part of a team.
No boring treadmills. BJJ is play-based fitness — kids build strength, coordination, and endurance without realizing they're working out.
The belt system gives kids a clear path. They learn that progress comes from consistency, not talent alone — and that earning something beats being given it.
IBJJF Children's Belt System — each belt carries four stripes earned through technical skill, behavior, effort, and competition performance.
Professor Shannon White is an IBJJF champion and the founder of True Art BJJ. He's been coaching kids for over a decade — building not just better grapplers, but better people.
Every kids class is taught or supervised directly by Professor White. He believes kids deserve the same technical quality and attention as the adults — adapted for their age, but never watered down.
Kids can start at True Art from age 8. We've found that's the sweet spot where they have the focus and coordination to get the most from class. Younger kids may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Yes. BJJ is a grappling art — there's no striking, no head contact, and no dangerous throws. Kids learn to control their bodies and their partners. All classes are supervised by experienced instructors, and safety is the #1 rule on the mat.
No experience needed. Most kids start with zero martial arts background. Our fundamentals class is designed for complete beginners — your child will feel at home from day one.
For the free trial, shorts and a t-shirt work fine. No shoes on the mat. After that, you'll need a gi (uniform) — we can help you get one at a good price. All kids start with a white belt.
Stripes and belts are earned through technical skill, attitude, effort, and competition performance — not just showing up. Professor White evaluates each child individually. When a child turns 16, they transition to the adult belt system.
Absolutely. True Art has a proven competition team — our kids have won NAGA Cleveland Team Championships and placed at IBJJF events. Competition is never required, but for kids who want it, we prepare them to win.
Bring your kid in. Let them try it. No pressure, no commitment — just the mat.
First class is on us. Just fill in the basics and we'll get you on the mat.