Best Karate Classes in Westchester for Kids

When some people think of karate, they imagine epic martial arts battles seen in movies or on TV.  But those images don’t really represent what karate is all about. Westchester County has a number of karate classes to introduce kids to the self-discipline, mental attitude, coordination, spirituality, and respect the sport requires.

So whether you are looking for a fun and healthy activity for your child, or you want to expose them to the full range of skills martial arts offer, Westchester County karate classes have a program that is right for your child. With that in mind, read on for details on some of the best local karate classes available.

See our guide to kids classes in Westchester for even more inspiration.  

Best Karate Classes for Kids in Westchester

Baxter Karate Dojo — Yonkers

Conveniently located on Central Avenue, Baxter Karate Dojo has a team of experienced instructors who customize a program to an individual client's physical needs. It offers classes for boys and girls ages 4 to 16 years. In addition to teaching children to master the complexities of karate, classes help build stamina, cardiovascular health, flexibility, and self-discipline. For those parents who would like to join in the fun, adult martial arts and kickboxing fitness classes are available.

Jim Smith Karate — Mahopac

A fixture in Westchester County since 1973, Jim Smith Karate’s instruction allows students to develop a strong foundation in basic skills, and gives them the opportunity to strengthen their natural physical abilities.  All classes are taught by certified black belt instructors, and the program’s 5:1 student/teacher ratio ensures all participants receive individualized attention and instruction.  Programs for children start at age 4, and classes are offered at six different levels of training, divided by both age and ability level.

Kapatid Martial Arts — Pleasantville

The goal of training programs here is to use martial arts as a vehicle to inspire kids to be more confident and focused in daily activities.  In addition, classes provide kids an excellent opportunity to socialize, make friends, get support, and just have a blast. Classes are offered Mondays through Saturdays, for children ages 3-5 years (Lil Warriors) and ages 6-11 years (Kids Martial Arts). Since Kapatid also offers a money-back guarantee, registering for classes is completely risk-free.

Ki Martial Arts — New Rochelle

KI Martial Arts is dedicated to teaching the fundamentals of karate, with an emphasis on quality instruction and individual attention for all students. Classes are taught by trained instructors, and there are both online and in-person classes available. Active participation in its programs will increase your child’s speed, stamina, flexibility, balance, and strength, as well as his or her confidence and self-esteem. Classes in Krav Maga are also available.

Still Mind Akido — Scarsdale

Located in Scarsdale, Still Mind Akido provides programs that build children’s confidence and character, and which incorporate rigorous exercise and developmentally appropriate learning. It even offers classes for children with special needs, such as autism, ADD or ADHD.  Classes are available indoors, outdoors, or online, and additional programs are offered in women’s self-defense, meditation, and massage. Sign up for a free trial class if you would like to check out a program before commiting.

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True ChampionZ programs focus on traditional Japanese Shotokan karate.

True ChampionZ Martial Arts — New Rochelle

What sets ChampionZ apart from other programs is its focus on Shotokan karate, a respected, traditional form of Japanese karate recognized as value-oriented, spiritual, and physical. Its Karate Kids Program offers training for age groups 4-6 years (Tiny Tigers) and 7-12 years (Junior Kids Karate). Classes are structured, supportive, and combine traditional training with fun agility games. With additional classes available in Krav Maga (kids, teens and adults) and kickboxing fitness (teens and adults), there is something for everyone at ChampionZ Martial Arts.

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Classes at World Seido Karate emphasize self-control, confidence, and mental awareness.

World Seido Karate — Elmsford

Meaning "sincere way," Seido is a form of karate that has a special application for children. Children's programs here promote physical fitness, balance, endurance, range of motion, coordination, flexibility, stamina, and a practical method of self-defense. It also fosters greater self-control, confidence, and mental awareness. Children train in a welcoming, encouraging, and fun atmosphere. Classes for children are offered Mondays-Saturdays, within the following age groups: Pee Wee (4-5 years old), Junior (6-8 years old), and Youth (9-15 years old).

A version of this post was first published in 2014. Writer Tom Stefanchik contributed to this 2021 update. 

Photos courtesy of the karate schools