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Best Kids' Martial Arts Classes In Minnesota

Many believe martial arts can promote positive development in children. In fact, University of Wisconsin psychologists saw improvement in "cognitive self-regulation, affective self-regulation, pro-social behavior, classroom conduct, and performance on a mental math test," when comparing it to conventional physical education. A recent article, "Best MMA And Marital Arts Studios," featured programs for the general population. Here are five outstanding centers that focus on martial arts classes for kids.

AmericanKarateStudio
(Credit: CBS

Fusion Martial Arts
1012 Diffley Road, Suite 700
Eagan, MN 55123
(651) 452-8449
www.fusionminnesota.com
 

Fushion offers the Tae Kwon Do form of Martial Arts for kids in addition to programs for other groups. Interested parents can have their children try out the free 45-minute introductory program, where they tour the academy, confer on goals with a certified black belt instructor and obtain a free individualized lesson. Fusion's $59 Quick Start Program includes several group classes and a free Fusion uniform. Instructors complete a three-year apprenticeship program and are certified through the American Taekwondo Association.

Master Moon's Tae Kwon Do
Lone Oak Center
7916 Mitchell Road
Eden Prairie, MN 55344
(952) 975-6000
www.mastermoontkd.com

Southwest Minneapolis and Eden Prairie families can try classes taught by Master Moon, a 6th degree Black Belt. He offers a two-week trail program for $19.95, so parents do not have to risk a large payment only to find their child chooses not to continue. The school offers a Little Tigers Program for four- and five-year-old children in addition to the classes for ages six and above. Children learn respect, courtesy, cooperation and perseverance. Moon also believes his students develop the ability to better focus, concentrate and maintain self-control.

Boltz's Family Martial Arts Academy
780 S. Plaza Drive
Mendota Heights, MN 55120
(651) 683-0355
www.boltzstkd.com

Boltz's Family Martial Arts Academy offers a free two-week test drive where your child can attend class at no cost. Children of ages three through six attend Little Dragon classes to learn Taekwondo basics, stranger-danger awareness, memory and balance skills, board breaking, peer development, cooperation and focus. Those five years of age and older can attend Tae Kwon Do classes for children. Children 12 and above can study Haidong Gumdo, or Korean Sword, with energy-building exercises, sparring and cutting. Those who are 14 or older can learn soft-style defensive martial arts techniques called Hapkido, consisting of rolls, falls, pressure points, joint manipulation and lock. Enrolled teens can also take part in Boltz's fitness and yoga classes at no extra cost.

Related: Top Martial Arts Studios In The Twin Cities

www.professionalkaratestudios.com
(credit: www.professionalkaratestudios.com)

Dojo Karate
15615 Grove Circle N.
Maple Grove, MN 55369
(763) 955-3656
www.dojokarate.com

Dojo Karate teaches American Karate in seven locations including Maple Grove, Elk River, Monticello, Buffalo, Waconia, Rogers and Medina. Each location has a team of instructors well schooled in the Dojo Karate system that strives to improve students' respect, discipline, self-confidence, concentration, health as well as self-defense. Dojo Karate will train students as young as three years old but offers a pre-program evaluation in the classroom with an instructor to determine physical capability for punches and kicks, which also provides a realistic preview for the student. The instructor confers with the child and parent following the evaluation and again after one month of classes.

Master Kim's World Class Tae Kwon Do Martial Arts Center
1795 Radio Drive
Woodbury, MN 55125
(651) 731-0303
www.minnesotatkd.com

Master Kim touts speedy results with young martial arts students, but prides himself on positive outcomes that last a lifetime. Among them are focus, self-control, perseverance, respect and cooperation. In addition to teaching adults, Master Kim offers a family program, a kids' program and a Little Tigers Program for four- and five-year-olds. Uncertain parents may appreciate Master Kim's $10 martial arts two-week trial program for beginners that includes free use of a uniform.

Related: Best After School Activities For Kids

Robin Johnson was born in Annandale, Minn. and graduated from Richfield High School and then the University of Minnesota where he studied Political Science, Business and Industrial Relations. A writer for Examiner.com, he also consults with a variety of organizations and individuals helping them develop and grow. His work can be found at Examiner.com.

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