What Age Can Kids Start Jiu-Jitsu?
How Stride groups ages 6–14, and what a first Kids Jiu-Jitsu class is like.
Your first class is free. Limited spots available.
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By Matt Waters · Published 2026-11-04 · Stride Martial Arts and Fitness
Parents ask what age is the right age. At Stride, Kids Jiu-Jitsu is for ages 6 to 14. That is the range the classes are built for.
The hours are split so younger children are not mixed into the older class. Ages 6 to 10 meet Monday and Wednesday at 5:00 PM. Ages 10 to 14 meet at 4:10 PM those same days.
A child does not need a sports background. Some kids come in shy. Some already play ball. The first month is about learning how to move and how to partner.
Class is 45 minutes. Wear a t-shirt and athletic shorts or pants with no zippers or pockets, and bring water. A uniform is not required for a trial class.
Nobody is asked to spar on day one. A coach shows one technique in small steps. If a child needs a break, they take one.
Saturday youth open mat is 10:00 AM for students who already train. A Friday competition class is for ages 12 and up, and it is optional.
The gym is in Excelsior Springs at 2365 Vintage Drive, about 10 minutes from Kearney and about 15 to 20 minutes from Liberty. The first class is free.
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