Our Tiny Tigers program starts at age 4–5. The real factor isn't age — it's readiness. Can your child follow basic instructions and engage in a group setting? If you're not sure, reach out and we'll talk it through. We'd rather have a quick conversation than have a child show up before they're set up to succeed.

For a trial class: Bring water, wear flip flop type shoes, athletic clothes, clipped nails, and a good attitude. We will provide a Gi (uniform) for your kid for the free trial class. You'll also sign a waiver before the first class. Check out the intro video at the top of this page for a full picture of what to expect.

Professor Mike Martin earned a black belt in Karate before BJJ — so this comes from real experience, not opinion. Karate has value, but it offers almost nothing for ground-based situations, which is where most real-world confrontations end up, especially for kids. BJJ teaches your child to control and neutralize a threat on the ground without striking — no punches thrown, no school policy violated. It also takes significantly longer to earn a black belt in BJJ, which means the achievement actually stands for something. We train BJJ because we believe it's the most practical and character-building martial art available for kids today.

BJJ doesn't teach kids to fight — it teaches them to control. Your child learns how to take someone down safely, maintain a dominant position, and hold them there calmly until an adult steps in. No punches, no escalation, no school policy violations. More importantly, the confidence that comes from real training changes how kids carry themselves. Bullies target kids who look unsure of themselves. That won't be your child.

It has for many of our students, and it's one of the things parents tell us about most. BJJ burns excess energy and gives kids a productive outlet for frustration — two of the biggest obstacles to focus in the classroom. Kids who train consistently tend to sleep better, sit still longer, and handle pressure more calmly. We also hold a simple standard here: kids can't compete if their grades aren't there. That's a line we hold because we're invested in developing the whole person, not just a better grappler. We back that up with a rewards program that recognizes kids for the things that matter — reading books, strong grades, volunteering, and keeping up with chores at home. When parents verify it, we reward it. The mat builds the habits — discipline, resilience, how to handle losing — and those habits follow your child everywhere. On and off the mat, we're raising good humans.

Yes — we reinforce the positive messages from parent at home, which is completely normal. Kids hear their parents every day. A coach is different as we give rewards for milestones such as grades, reading, etc. When Professor Mike or one of our instructors sets a standard on the mat, kids rise to it — and that pattern follows them into school and home life. We stay close with parents and treat this as a team effort. Check our reviews: improved focus and behavior at home is one of the most common things parents mention.

Kids BJJ is our core program for ages 7–12 focused on grappling techniques. Classes are structured and technique-focused, building real self-defense skills alongside character. Every class includes warm-up, instruction, drilling, and age-appropriate live sparring. One of the most important things we teach isn't a technique — it's how to compete, win with humility, and lose with purpose. Kids learn early that a loss isn't a reason to quit, it's information. You assess, adjust, and come back better. That mindset is rare at any age, and we build it here intentionally. The habits formed on this mat — discipline, sportsmanship, resilience, and the refusal to give up — follow your child into school, relationships, and life.

BJJ is one of the safest contact martial arts because it's built around a tap-out system — the moment a child feels discomfort from a submission, they tap, and their partner releases immediately. No one pushes through submissions here. Unlike striking arts where kids absorb more contact than most parents realize, grappling-based training is controlled, supervised, and designed with long-term safety in mind. Injuries can happen in any sport; they're rare here and typically minor.

Yes — every child gets a free trial class before committing to anything. It's the best way to see if it's the right fit. Book yours at strongheartacademy.com/free-trial.

Competition is optional, never required. When your child is ready and interested, we'll prepare them. Our kids compete regularly in North Phoenix and Scottsdale-area tournaments — boys and girls alike. Many kids never compete and still build everything we're here for. We follow their lead.

Yes. Strong Heart Academy accepts Arizona ESA (Empowerment Scholarship Account) debit cards, meaning eligible families can use state education funds toward Kids BJJ enrollment. Visit azed.gov/esa to apply or check eligibility.

Tiny Tigers (ages 4–6): movement, coordination, listening, and fun — structured so young children thrive without feeling overwhelmed. Kids BJJ (ages 7–12): real technique, self-defense fundamentals, and character development. Teen BJJ (ages 13–17): advanced training, competition preparation, and leadership development. Not sure which fits? Contact us and we'll help you find the right starting point.