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Best Kids' Martial Arts Classes In Los Angeles

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All kinds of athletic endeavors are pursued by Southland kids, some more popular than others. Add to that the option of learning the martial arts, always a sport that attracts particular children serious about getting fit in both mind and soul. That said, the following are five of the best places operating in the City of Angels that offer a variety of martial arts classes to our youth.

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California Academy of Martial Arts
521 N. Hollywood Way
Burbank, CA 91505
(818) 843-7916
www.kungfuwingchun.com

At California Academy of Martial Arts, the youngest group is made of children ages 3 through 6 and is called the pandas. Collectively, these tots learn the meaning of respect, leadership qualities and how to focus on a physical task at this popular Burbank-based outpost. These lessons, along with learning the actual art involved in the martial arts, continue with kids ages 6 through 8 (they're called tigers) and kids ages 8 through 13 (they're called dragons). In addition to all kinds of disciplines like Kung Fu, all students and their sisters and brothers are invited to take part in anti-kidnapping and anti-bullying seminars at the California Academy of Martial Arts for free.

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Punch Kick Grapple Training Center
1401 Westwood Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90024
(310) 575-4500
www.pkgla.com

This Westwood-based outfit is family friendly with kids returning again and again to learn fresh skills and to hone the skills that have already been learned. That's necessary in order to get the most out of the martial arts classes taught at this spunky studio that boasts world famous instructors who take their students through moves that build both endurance and stamina while also working on the core muscle groups. Free trials are available.

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Marina Martial Arts
13203 West Washington Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90066
(310) 821-6768
www.marinamartialarts.net

Life skills are at the core of this particular martial arts learning space, convenient to Culver City and Marina del Rey, where kids learn a lot about the ancient disciplines as well as what lies ahead in all aspects of life as these children collectively grow older. Self defense is at the forefront of the Marina Martial Arts youth programs with Tae Kwon Do at the top of the list for little ones where classes eliminate stress while steering clear of any ounce of boredom.

Related: Best Kids Arts Classes In Los Angeles

Panther Energy Total Fitness
(credit: Butch H./Yelp)

Panther Energy Total Fitness
5555 Hollywood Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90028
(323) 301-8855
www.pantherla.com

Although martial arts-like karate is the emphasis at this outpost aimed at teaching kids who are specifically challenged due to autism, emotional, spiritual and social aspects of life are also introduced in a big way. Small classes dictate a lot of personal attention to each child who takes part in the programs offered at this vibrant Hollywood venue.

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MUSA Martial Arts Academy
415 1/2 N. Larchmont Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90004
(323) 902-6872
www.musamartialsarts.com

Head to Larchmont to give your kids the golden opportunity to learn both TaeKwonDo and HapKiDo. While other martial arts disciplines are also taught here, it is these two versions that dominate the roster at MUSA Martial Arts Academy. A scholarship program to attend this impressive teaching facility is on the books so if you're intrigued, do investigate the chance to send your kids for free.

Related: Best Golf Lessons for Kids in Los Angeles

Los Angeles freelance travel writer Jane Lasky, contributes to publications such as Travel + Leisure, Vogue and Esquire. Her weekly sojourning column ran in 40 newspapers for 20 years. Jane is anything but an accidental tourist. Check out her articles on Examiner.com.

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