Marcelo Alonso Kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Seattle
Our Kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) provides comprehensive self-defense instruction tailored for children, fostering increased focus, confidence, and self-respect alongside essential martial arts skills.
Youth Program
Our Youth Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu program creates a safe and nurturing environment for children aged 7-14 to learn and grow. With a focus on safety, our comprehensive training curriculum is designed to foster focus, discipline, self-confidence, and other essential life skills. Through structured classes and supportive instructors, children not only develop physical strength and agility but also gain invaluable tools for navigating life's challenges with confidence and resilience.
Nurture your child’s self-confidence
By imparting battle-tested Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques, our program empowers children to confront life's challenges with self-confidence and resilience. Through disciplined training and guidance, they not only acquire practical self-defense skills but also cultivate a mindset that enables them to tackle obstacles head-on, both on and off the mats.
Give your child a gift of social skills
In our program's secure and nurturing environment, children not only learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu but also develop crucial teamwork skills. This foundation in collaboration prepares them for academic and professional success, fostering confidence and resilience for the challenges they'll face in school, university, and beyond.
Develop your child’s physical fitness
In our kids BJJ programs, children experience a full-body workout that boosts strength, flexibility, agility, and cardiovascular endurance. Through consistent training, they develop robust physical health, setting them on a path toward lifelong fitness.
Meet the Team
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Marcelo Alonso
OWNER AND HEAD PROFESSOR
Marcelo holds the prestigious rank of coral belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Master Carlson Gracie Sr. With decades of experience, Marcelo has trained numerous successful Jiu-Jitsu athletes.
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Eric (Pete) Peterson
CHIEF INSTRUCTOR, YOUTH PROGRAM
Pete is a long-time Marcelo's student. A brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Pete embarked on his martial arts journey in 1995 and has maintained an active presence in competition ever since. With a fervent passion for working with youth, Pete finds fulfillment in witnessing their transformation into formidable athletes.
What People Are Saying
“My two boys (8 and 11) are in the kids program, and I train there as well. Marcelo’s has been a fantastic place for our family.”
— Kip Larson
“A warm and welcoming place to train! This is an all around amazing gym with solid teaching and coaching.”
— Jon N
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu safe for children?
A: Yes, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes for children are designed with safety as a top priority. Instructors supervise all activities closely, ensuring that children learn techniques in a controlled environment.
Q: Will BJJ classes help my child with discipline and focus?
A: Yes, our BJJ classes emphasize discipline, focus, and respect for instructors and training partners. Through structured training sessions, children learn to concentrate on tasks and follow instructions attentively.
Q: How often should my child attend BJJ classes to see progress?
A: Consistency is key to progress in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Attending classes regularly, typically 2-3 times per week, allows children to build on their skills and see improvement over time.
Q: What should we bring to the first kids BJJ class?
A: When your child attends their first jiu-jitsu class, we'll supply them with a uniform known as a gi. We suggest wearing a T-shirt, comfortable undergarments or leggings, and/or a rash guard underneath the gi. Don't worry about tying the belt for the first time; someone will be available to assist you!
Moving forward, children should have a mouthguard, ensure their gi is washed after every class to prevent skin infections, and clip their nails weekly.
Q: What age should my child start BJJ classes?
A: Our academy provides classes tailored for children aged 7 to 14. Beginning at a young age offers the advantage of instilling fundamental martial arts and life skills early on.
Q: What qualifications do the instructors have for teaching children?
A: Our instructors have extensive experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and undergo specialized training for teaching children. They are skilled in working with young students, ensuring a fun and safe learning environment.
Q: Will my child be sparring (rolling) with other children during classes?
A: Yes, supervised sparring, or rolling, is often part of BJJ classes for children. It provides an opportunity for them to apply techniques in a controlled setting, promoting skill development and confidence.
Q: Are parents allowed to remain and watch their child’s class?
A: Of course! You're encouraged to stay at the academy throughout the class and witness your child's development.