Martial arts disciplines for children

As a child, I practiced martial arts for many years, and if there’s one thing I can confidently say, it’s that martial arts is a fantastic way for kids to stay active, build confidence, and learn to defend themselves; skills that are both empowering and practical!

If you or your child are considering martial arts, here’s a non-exhaustive guide to some child-friendly martial arts disciplines and clubs in Luxembourg.

Karate

Karate is one of the most popular martial arts for children in Luxembourg, and for good reason.

One of the main benefits of karate is that it teaches self-respect, discipline, and how to channel energy in a positive way. As a young girl struggling with self-esteem, karate helped me considerably – one of the reasons I always recommend it.

In addition to boosting self-confidence, karate helps improve physical fitness, coordination, balance, and endurance. It also offers a structured outlet for children to channel their energy. Mentally, it encourages focus, emotional regulation, and problem-solving skills (something that might come in handy on the playground!).

Karate classes typically begin for children around the age of six or seven, though many clubs these days also offer courses to kindergarteners. Given the sport’s popularity, there are clubs spread across the country, making it likely you’ll find one nearby.

Since 2023, karate in Luxembourg has its own federation, splitting from the Luxembourgish Federation of Martial Arts (FLAM) alongside judo and taekwondo. The FLAM still offers a full directory of affiliated karate clubs. Annual club fees are usually around €150.

Judo

Judo shares many of karate’s benefits, such as enhanced strength, flexibility, and stamina. It is also highly effective for teaching discipline, respect, and teamwork in a safe and encouraging environment.

One of the main differences is that judo does not involve punching or kicking. Instead, it focuses on grappling techniques and uses an opponent's strength and momentum to execute throws and pins.

Judo is often described as a “soft” martial art, as it relies more on technique and leverage than brute force. While karate competitions award points for striking, judo awards points for successfully throwing or immobilising the opponent.

Children can begin judo at around age six. Some clubs, like the one in Strassen, even offer "baby judo" classes for children as young as three.

Fees typically range between €130 and €150 annually, and some clubs offer discounted rates for children under 14. For more information, the website of the Luxembourgish Judo Federation and the FLAM website are great resources for finding a suitable judo club near you.

Aikido

Aikido is a lesser known but equally valuable discipline for children. Additionally, it is completely non-aggressive.

Aikido focuses on using the opponent’s energy and movement, aiming to neutralise conflict rather than escalate it. The practice involves a mix of throwing, joint-locking, and pinning techniques, and it includes training with traditional Japanese weapons like the sword and staff.

A little fun fact: My mother practised aikido for many years and often spoke about the mental and physical benefits it brought her. She became fitter, more coordinated, and more disciplined, all within a calm and respectful environment.

These qualities make aikido particularly well-suited for children who may be more sensitive or reserved.

Like karate and judo, aikido classes usually start at age six or seven. The average yearly fee is around €150. You can find a list of available clubs through the FLAM website.

Jiu-Jitsu

Jiu-jitsu, especially Brazilian jiu-jitsu, has grown in popularity in recent years and offers a strong combination of physical and mental development for children. Originally developed by the Japanese bushi warriors during the Kamakura period in Japan, jiu-jitsu was designed to enable effective self-defence against armed opponents, often without the use of weapons.

For children, jiu-jitsu builds flexibility, endurance, and body awareness, while also improving problem-solving skills, self-confidence, and emotional resilience. The practice focuses on grappling, ground control, and submission techniques, helping children learn how to manage both physical and emotional pressure.

It also fosters a healthy attitude toward learning from failure, which is a valuable life lesson.

Most jiu-jitsu clubs welcome children from around the age of eight. Compared to other martial arts, it tends to be slightly more affordable, with annual fees around €80. For club listings and additional details, you can consult the FLAM website.

Taekwondo

With its roots in Korean martial traditions, taekwondo is another excellent martial art for children; it puts emphasis on dynamic movements, flexibility, discipline, and mental focus.

One of the key physical advantages of taekwondo is that it helps children maintain and develop their natural flexibility. The sport also plays a crucial role in improving balance, coordination, and lateralisation, which is the brain’s ability to coordinate both sides of the body.

For energetic children, taekwondo provides an ideal outlet to release excess energy in a structured, rule-based environment that channels physicality in a constructive way. It teaches self-control and allows kids to “let off steam” in an educational setting that promotes respect and focus.

Although it’s a striking martial art, the risk of injury is relatively low. Children can start around age six, and the annual fees, although depending on which club you go, hover around €150.

Getting started

If you or your child are ready to begin your martial arts journey, the best place to start is the website of the Luxembourgish Federation of Martial Arts (FLAM). It provides comprehensive information about the various disciplines mentioned in this guide, along with a full list of clubs across the country, including their locations, contact details, and training options.

Since karate, judo, and taekwondo have become big enough to establish their very own federations, more information can be found at their respective sites.

Before enrolling, keep in mind that in addition to the annual club fee, there are a few essential extras to budget for. All practitioners are required to purchase a martial arts license and a training passport.

You’ll also need to invest in a proper uniform, usually referred to as a kimono in Luxembourg, which may vary depending on the discipline. For certain disciplines, especially if your child participates in competitions, protective gear may also be required.