Kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Classes in Riverside
Build Your Child’s Confidence Through Martial Arts
Our Kids BJJ program helps children develop confidence, focus, respect, and resilience through age-specific Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training. Whether your child is shy, energetic, or somewhere in between, our classes help them thrive — physically, mentally, and emotionally — in a fun and structured environment.
Tiny Tigers BJJ (Ages 3–4)
Children in this program will:
- Improve balance and coordination
- Learn to listen and follow directions
- Build early confidence and focus
Our Tiny Tigers classes introduce preschoolers to the fundamentals of movement, balance, and teamwork through fun, safe martial arts drills.
We use playful learning methods that keep young students engaged while developing the foundation for lifelong martial arts success.
Little Tigers BJJ (Ages 5–7)
Students learn how to:
- Practice self-control and respect
- Improve focus and attention span
- Build strength, coordination, and balance
Beginner BJJ (Ages 7–13)
Through consistent training, students will:
- Develop confidence and perseverance
- Learn practical, non-aggressive self-defense
- Set and achieve goals through belt progressions
How Kids Benefit from Our Martial Arts Program
Confidence & Discipline
We instill self-confidence and discipline, helping kids develop focus and respect both inside and outside the academy.
Self-Defense Skills
Your child will learn effective techniques to protect themselves in real-world situations while also understanding the importance of de-escalation.
Social Skills & Teamwork
We instill self-confidence and discipline, helping kids develop focus and respect both inside and outside the academy.
Training Blocks That Shape Strong, Confident Kids
Character Training & Development
Block #1: Good Attitude – The goal of this segment is to teach the value of having a good attitude.
Block #2: Good Habits – The goal of this segment is to teach the value of having good habits. Good habits are hard to make, but easy to live with. Bad habits are easy to make, but hard to live with.
Block #3: Good Self-Control – The goal of this segment is to teach practical ways to handle emotions.
Block #4: Good Manners – The goal of this segment is to teach the importance of courtesy and respect.
School Safe / Street Safe Awareness
Block #1: ABCs of Conflict Avoidance – The goal of this segment is to learn how to avoid confrontation and conflict.
Block #2: Stranger Alert – The goal of this segment is to learn how
to identify a lure and what to do if it happens to you.
Block #3: Rules of Safety – The goal of this segment is to learn what
to do if confronted and how to resolve the situation peacefully.
Block #4: Trust Your Intuition – The goal of this segment is to learn
practical techniques to fine-tune the student’s awareness and intuition.
Why Parents Love Our Kids Martial Arts Program
Our martial arts program for kids is designed to work hand-in-hand with a child’s education, developing self-discipline, mental focus, and goal-setting skills. Parents often see improvements in their children’s motivation, behavior, and academic performance as they apply what they learn on the mats to everyday challenges.
Goal Setting
Children are encouraged to set and achieve long-term goals through consistent effort and perseverance. Our belt promotion standards teach patience, focus, and the value of hard work — lessons that prepare them for success in every area of life.
Proper Use of Skills
Students are taught that martial arts should always be used responsibly. We emphasize respect, humility, and self-control, ensuring that their skills are applied only for self-defense and never in an aggressive or harmful way.
Emphasis on Schoolwork
We believe academic excellence and martial arts discipline go hand-in-hand. Students who show dedication in school are recognized for their achievements, reinforcing that focus, persistence, and respect lead to success both in the classroom and on the mats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What martial arts classes do you offer?
We offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Kickboxing, and Self-Defense classes designed for all ages and skill levels. Our programs focus on practical self-defense rather than sport-based training.
Who teaches the classes at Marcellini’s Martial Arts Academy?
All classes are taught by Sam Marcellini, a black belt under Royce Gracie and a certified instructor under Rob Kaman. Sam has been training and teaching martial arts since 2000 and brings extensive experience in both grappling and striking arts.
Is your program suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! Our program is designed for everyone, regardless of age, size, or fitness level. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced martial artist, we provide a safe and supportive environment for learning.
How does your self-defense training differ from sport Jiu-Jitsu?
We focus on real-world self-defense applications rather than competition-based techniques. Our training prepares students to handle altercations effectively, both in striking range and on the ground, with an emphasis on de-escalation and personal safety.
Do you offer children’s martial arts programs?
Yes! We have a dedicated children’s program that not only teaches martial arts skills but also emphasizes character development, discipline, and confidence-building.
What makes Marcellini’s Martial Arts Academy unique?
Our academy stands out due to Sam Marcellini’s unique blend of striking and grappling arts, his direct training lineage under martial arts legends, and our strong emphasis on self-defense. We provide an authentic and effective training experience for all students.
Start Your Child’s Martial Arts Journey Today