KIDS Martial arts CLASSES in southampton

TAUGHT BY MATT SIMPSON / JON WELLSTEAD / DEAGAN LIEF / LANCE WICKS

Martial arts can be an excellent way for children to learn life skills such as discipline, mental strength, focus, teamwork and confidence. They’ll make new friends, discover new skills and improve physically and mentally, with the addition of a well structured class and an experienced teacher.

At Parity we’ve created a safe and friendly atmosphere that helps children from 3-13 years learn disciplines such as BJJ (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu), MMA (Mixed Martial Arts), Striking (Muay Thai/kickboxing/boxing) and Judo. Each class is taken by an experienced and qualified coach who can help even the shyest of children out of their shell and onto the mat.

Not only does martial arts give children a feeling of accomplishment and promote social skills, but it also teaches some basic self defence techniques that can help them feel more confident around their peers.

And with a weeks free trial, it’s a great time to give it a go.

Membership: These classes can be booked on the following membership plans; Kids and Family. PAYG is also available via our app.

We are registered with the UKBJJA AND IBJJF ensuring the quality and PReserving THE integrity of our standards

5-13 YEARS

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is for everyone.
It’s a combat sports system that revolves around grappling and ground fighting. Popularised by the Gracie family and the UFC, it has become a way of life for many people who enjoy its effective, reality-based fighting system.
It teaches children how to defend themselves without relying on strength or size, making it ideal for all ages and abilities. In our kid’s BJJ classes, young learners develop physical skills and valuable life lessons in respect, discipline, and perseverance.
Our supportive environment encourages teamwork, boosts confidence, and helps children develop problem-solving skills. Whether your child wants to stay active, learn self-defence, or have fun, BJJ offers a unique and enriching experience that contributes to their overall growth and development.
Kit: BJJ Gi (traditional training uniform) and belt - ask the coaches for recommendations if you're unsure. A t-shirt or rashguard can be worn under the jacket. If your child wants to compete then you may also want to consider a gumshield a bit further down the line.
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has exploded in popularity globally with the rise of organisations such as UFC, One, Bellator, Cage Warriors and more.
MMA is a combination of combat sports, incorporating techniques from Boxing, Kickboxing, Wrestling, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, Karate, Muay Thai as well as many other disciplines. Since its first inception, it’s introduced a plethora of rules to improve safety for its fighters and lift its no-holds-barred image.
At Parity , our kids MMA class is perfect for kids to learn new skills whilst staying active. They’ll be learning techniques and skills from instructors and fighters that can pass on their knowledge and experience from many rounds spent in the cage and on the mats.
Kit: MMA gloves and/or Boxing gloves, rash guard/tshirt, MMA/grappling shorts.
Our striking classes are a fun way to teach children basic Boxing, Muay Thai and Kickboxing striking skills. These basic fundamentals include footwork, range, and combinations and are taught through drilling, bag work and partner drills.
We want all kids to learn how to maximize their stamina and strength levels while at the same time enhancing their motor coordination, all in a safe environment that enables them to have fun while working out. This makes it easier for them to learn the more challenging techniques as well as discipline while having fun.
Kit: Boxing gloves, rash guard/tshirt, MMA/grappling shorts.
Judo is a Japanese martial art that focuses on throws and grappling techniques to subdue opponents, with an emphasis on physical fitness, mental discipline, and sportsmanship.
It was invented by Jigoro Kano in Japan in 1882 as a safe and effective form of physical education and self-defence based on the principles of maximum efficiency and mutual benefit.
In judo points are awarded for throws, holds, and submissions. The aim is to throw the opponent to the ground with force or hold them down for a certain amount of time.
Coached by a qualified Judo instructor with a wealth of experience our Judo classes at Parity are designed to be both challenging and enjoyable, with a strong focus on technical proficiency, physical fitness, and mental discipline.
Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the fundamentals or an experienced Judoka seeking to refine your skills, our instructors guidance will help you reach your full potential. Lance's commitment to creating a positive and supportive learning environment ensures that every student feels welcome and motivated.
These sessions are open to kids aged 7-13 from all gyms and affiliations through the school holidays.
They are suitable for all levels (including absolute beginners!), with Gi and No Gi sessions, postional sparring, rounds and lots of games.
These sessions are open to kids aged 7-13 from all gyms and affiliations through the school holidays.
They are small group classes, with a maximum of 8 kids, which will enable more personalised training, focussing on developing fundamentals and improving technical knowledge and ability.
Private training is a great addition to team training to help your child become better technically, physically and mentally. It can also be used as a quieter and more relaxed introduction to BJJ in a private session.
The sessions can used to fill holes in their games, perfect moves, problem solve, trouble shoot, engage in proper movements and drills and take their skills to the next level.
We offer one-to-ones, partner, and small group sessions (up to 4). Speak to the coaches for more info, availability and prices.

3-5 Years

This class will be a play based introduction to the world of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ), focussing on skill development, safety and of course fun.
Through engaging activities and playful exercises, they will be guided through fundamental movements that build confidence and coordination.
By joining our class, your child will not only gain valuable physical skills but also learn important social skills like cooperation and respect for others.
Give your toddler the opportunity to thrive and grow in a supportive and stimulating environment.

14+ Years

From the age of 14 you can join in on all of the adult classes!
There's a teen membership option for 14-16 year olds which is basically just a discounted Unlimited membership - the only thing not available is the S&C area (unless with a qualified coach) and the Sauna.

REASONS YOUR KIDS SHOULD BE DOING MARTIAL ARTS

Martial arts training offers a variety of benefits for children of all ages, and enrolling your child could be one of the best decisions you make for their development. Not only is it a fun and engaging way to get physically fit, but it also imparts valuable life skills. Here’s why martial arts might be the perfect activity for your child:

Martial arts provide a unique platform for children to master new skills, leading to significant boosts in self-confidence. Each class challenges them in a safe and structured environment, allowing them to progress at their own pace. As children reach milestones, their self-esteem skyrockets, empowering them to take on new challenges inside and outside the academy.
A core benefit of martial arts is enhancement of discipline and focus. Children learn to pay attention, follow directions, and stick to a set routine. The repetitive nature of drills and the need to memorize sequences and forms help improve their ability to focus. Over time, this discipline translates into better behaviour at home, improved focus in school, and greater respect for others.
Martial arts are an excellent form of physical exercise to help children improve their health and fitness. Regular practice strengthens the heart, builds strong muscles and bones, and improves flexibility, balance, and coordination. These physical benefits are crucial during the developmental years and can instil a lifelong appreciation for physical fitness.
Participating in martial arts teaches children about sportsmanship and handling success and defeat. They learn to win with grace and lose with dignity, understanding that both outcomes are part of life and opportunities for growth - "you either win or you learn". These lessons in resilience and perseverance prepare them for the challenges they will face in life, teaching them to bounce back stronger from setbacks.
While we hope our children will never need to defend themselves, martial arts training gives them the skills to do so effectively. Additionally, martial arts classes are a great way for children to meet new friends and develop strong social skills. The environment encourages teamwork, leadership, and communication, as students must work together during drills and sparring sessions. This camaraderie fosters a sense of community and belonging, helping children feel more connected and supported.
Enrolling your child in martial arts can give them a solid foundation for becoming disciplined, confident, and respectful individuals. It’s not just about physical fitness; it’s about shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Whether your child is shy and needs a confidence boost or they’re overflowing with energy, martial arts can channel their personality traits into something positive and rewarding. Consider signing your child up for a martial arts class—watch them grow, succeed, and exceed your expectations!

Understanding the KIDS BJJ Belt System

In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, belts represent your progression and mastery of the sport. While the adult belt system is fairly straightforward, adults often have questions about the kids belt system as they start enrolling their children in BJJ programs.

We follow the International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) belt system. This is an internationally recognised system from a federation that hosts many of the biggest Jiu Jitsu competitions in the world.

Their standardised kids belt system goes through ages four to 15. All students start at white and then move through the colors grey, yellow, orange, and green. Each colour has 3 belt divisions: colour/white, solid colour, and colour/black.

Every belt receives upto 4 stripes (indicated with a piece of tape wrapped around the black bar at the tail of the belt) as you work toward the next colour. Many factors go into the decision to promote – including focus, discipline, respect, technical knowledge, performance and time at the rank.

It’s very important to have a ranking system because children can be demotivated by the struggles of learning and getting better in Jiu Jitsu. They may not be able to see progress in technique, and enjoy the progress as adults do, because they don’t have the way of thinking that an adult BJJ practitioner has. For this reason, the belt promotions make sense to keep the children motivated and let them see their progress during their Jiu Jitsu journey. Compared to adults, children tend to be more motivated by being promoted more often and feeling the drive to train frequently, hence the 3 belts in each colour group.

Also, there is a big point of learning about hierarchy. The belt system for children shows a strict hierarchy which they wouldn’t necessarily learn in other places. Also you can easily identify the skill level of a child just by looking at their belt.

The white belt is the entry point for all new BJJ students, marking the start of their journey through the BJJ belt ranks. It means first and foremost that you and your child are a member of the Parity family.
As a white belt, children will start to learn the basics of BJJ, including keeping positions of control and escaping positions of danger. We also include chats that focus on behavior and how to handle ourselves on and off the mat.
During this time, the student will receive grades or “stripes” on their white belt, indicated with a piece of tape wrapped around the black bar at the tail of the belt.
If a child attends class regularly, they will typically earn a stripe every few months .White belts require upto 4 stripes before graduating to grey-and-white belt. A student will spend approximately 1-2 years as a white belt.
GREY/WHITE, SOLID GREY, GREY/BLACK
Ages: 4-15
The grey belt group indicates that a child will now begin to focus more on playing offense. Grey belts focus on details and figuring out how to adjust moves against fighting opponents.
Students at this level will start to have an understanding of control positions like mount, side control, back control and the guard, they will also have some understanding of positional escapes as they look to refine their techniques. Throughout the whole grey belt process, students will learn a number of sweeps and submissions and even though they may struggle to retain all of the details, the concepts will start to ingrain in their movements.
Grey/white belts earn upto 4 stripes and will spend approximately 12-18months at this belt before moving up to solid grey.
Once a child graduates to a solid grey belt, the belts are now worn for a longer period of time. Both solid grey and grey/black require upto 4 stripes to move forward. Students can expect to spend 1-2 years at each of these belts.
YELLOW/WHITE, SOLID YELLOW, YELLOW/BLACK
Ages: 7-15
By the time a child earns the first belt in the yellow group (the yellow/white belt), they will have been training for at least 3-4 years. They’ve acquired a large number of tools in their grappling toolbox, and now they’ll begin to focus on putting all the pieces together.
Kids at this level should understand BJJ in a more intricate way, as they will be developing a deadly guard and passing with precision. Their overall knowledge should be deeper and their understanding of sweeps, escapes and submissions should be starting to heighten. Students will also be confident and competent with many of their standup techniques like takedowns, throws and trips.
Yellow belts focus on flow, transitioning from move to move smoothly. They also begin to figure out their strategy and learn now to think several moves ahead.
ORANGE/WHITE, SOLID ORANGE, ORANGE/BLACK
Ages: 10-15
At the orange belt level, we consider children advanced. By this point, the student will have already achieved a very broad knowledge of BJJ, and now focus on developing their own particular style or “game.”
Orange belt is the time to for students to figure out what moves work best for them and what positions they like to play from. Orange belts focus on continuing to develop strategy and learning how to perform their tactics smoothly.
An orange belt is someone that all the kids will be looking up to, so they have to show great sportsmanship and humility inside the gym and on the competition mats.
GREEN/WHITE, SOLID GREEN, GREEN/BLACK
Ages: 13-15
The Green belt group is the last belt colour for children, with the Green/Black belt being the highest rank one can earn as a child. Green belt students have very advanced knowledge, and the focus of their training rests in sharpening their skills and fine-tuning their game.
This belt is typically only reached by students who start training at a very young age. Green belts will be super technical and display an in depth series of knowledge. In most cases they are just as technical as a BJJ purple belt practitioner, that is why once they turn sixteen they get promoted straight to a blue or purple belt rank. Green belts will have outstanding technical proficiency, as they will have developed exponentially in all aspects of their BJJ game.
At the age of 16, youth BJJ students will move into the adult belt system. If a student has shown the proper training, skills and experience, the coaches may decide to award them a blue or purple belt. The blue belt is the second belt level and the purple belt the third belt level in the adult belt system. Students with less experience will be transferred to a white belt in the adult belt system.

Proud to be a Mauricio Gomes Legacy Affiliate

Often called the Godfather of BJJ here in the UK, Mauricio began training in Jiu-Jitsu at just four years of age. His father, who was a brown belt, started his journey and took him to classes at João Alberto Barreto’s academy.
As a teenager, Mauricio began training with the legendary Rolls Gracie. Under Rolls' guidance, he became a highly successful competitor and won the absolute division of the Rio de Janeiro State Championships in 1981. Shortly after this victory Rolls would award Mauricio his black belt. Mauricio continued training with Rolls until his tragic death in 1982.
Through his close ties with the Gracie family, Mauricio met Reila Gracie, the daughter of Carlos Gracie Sr. The two married and, although their relationship didn't last, they had a son, Roger Gracie. Roger would go on to become a ten-time World Champion and is widely recognised as being the greatest Jiu-Jitsu competitor of all time.
In the late 1990s, Mauricio came to the UK and established the very first Gracie Barra gym there. Through his teaching, many new gyms would open and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is now the fastest growing martial art in the UK.
On August 25th 2017 Master Mauricio Gomes, along with Masters Marcio Stambowsky, Romero ‘Jacare’ Cavalcanti and Sergio Penha, were promoted to 8th degree red and white belt. This momentous achievement represents 38 years as a black belt and over 50 years training in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
Mauricio started training with the legendary Rolls Gracie in 1977, and became one of only six people to be promoted to black belt by him in 1981.
Mauricio also happens to be the father and coach of one of the greatest BJJ athletes of all time, Roger Gracie!