Karate Isn't Your Child's Only Option

Karate Isn’t Your Child’s Only Option for Martial Arts Training

Are you thinking about enrolling your child in a martial arts program but feeling unsure about which style to choose? Many parents assume that martial arts automatically means karate — but that’s far from the truth. There are several types of martial arts, each with its own techniques, strategies, and benefits.

At Athlas Training Team, we often receive calls from parents looking for karate classes in Fort Lauderdale. However, once they learn about the other martial arts we offer — including Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and Wrestling — they realize there’s so much more available than just karate. If you’re curious about the differences between these martial arts styles and what your child can expect from training with us, this article will explain everything you need to know.

Different Types of Martial Arts

Judo

Judo was created in 1882 by Jigoro Kano in Japan as a form of self-defense and a method for developing physical and mental strength. Judo techniques are based on using an opponent’s strength and balance against them, rather than relying on brute force.

Judo is particularly useful for teaching kids how to fall safely and control their balance. Because it’s based on leverage and technique, even smaller individuals can successfully apply Judo techniques against larger opponents.

Jiu-Jitsu

Jiu-Jitsu is closely related to Judo but focuses more on ground fighting and submissions. It originated in Japan but was refined and modernized in Brazil, where it evolved into Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ).

Jiu-Jitsu teaches kids how to control an opponent on the ground using joint locks and chokeholds. The key to success in Jiu-Jitsu is not strength, but strategy and technique. It helps children develop problem-solving skills and teaches them how to remain calm under pressure.

Jiu-Jitsu is widely regarded as one of the most effective martial arts for self-defense and has become the foundation for modern MMA (Mixed Martial Arts).

Karate

Karate originated in Okinawa, Japan and focuses primarily on striking techniques, such as punches, kicks, knee strikes, and elbow strikes. Karate also emphasizes mental discipline and respect, teaching students to control their impulses and develop a focused mindset.

Karate is highly structured, with students progressing through different belt levels based on their technical and mental development. While karate is effective for self-defense, it also helps kids develop confidence and discipline in other areas of life.

Wrestling

Wrestling is one of the oldest forms of combat, dating back thousands of years. It is a freestyle sport where competitors try to control and pin their opponents using strength, balance, and technique.

Unlike Judo and Jiu-Jitsu, wrestling does not use submissions — the goal is to control the opponent through holds and takedowns. Wrestling is highly effective for building strength, endurance, and body awareness.

What to Expect with Jiu-Jitsu at Athlas Training Team FTL

At Athlas Training Team, we incorporate elements of Judo, Karate, and Wrestling into our Jiu-Jitsu training to create a well-rounded martial arts program for kids.

Master Junior Fernandes (head coach of the kids’ program) started his martial arts career with Judo, and his expertise in multiple disciplines allows him to create a dynamic and effective training environment.

What your child will learn:

✅ Judo Techniques – Learning how to fall safely and execute throws properly.
✅ Karate Techniques – Improving focus, discipline, and striking basics.
✅ Wrestling Techniques – Enhancing body control, takedown skills, and balance.

Our Jiu-Jitsu classes are designed to help kids develop physical strength, technical skills, and mental resilience. Training sessions include both Gi (uniform) and No-Gi (without uniform) training, giving kids exposure to different competition formats and styles.

On Fridays, we hold “No-Gi” classes where students practice without the traditional kimono. This helps them improve their wrestling and takedown skills, which are essential for Jiu-Jitsu competition.

Our classes are divided by age and belt level to ensure that kids are training with others at a similar level of skill and experience. We follow the guidelines set by the Jiu-Jitsu Federation to ensure that our students are learning proper techniques and progressing at a steady pace.

Why Martial Arts Training Is Great for Kids

Martial arts training offers a wide range of benefits for children, both physically and mentally. Whether your child chooses Jiu-Jitsu, Karate, Judo, or Wrestling, the skills they learn on the mat will translate into life skills off the mat.

Technical Development

By training and competing in Jiu-Jitsu, kids naturally improve their technique. The process of preparing for competition forces them to study more, refine their moves, and adapt to different styles — leading to rapid technical improvement.

Mental Strength

Competing in martial arts teaches kids to handle both victory and defeat with grace. This mental toughness translates into other areas of life, helping kids face challenges with confidence and resilience.

Confidence and Discipline

Karate, Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and Wrestling all emphasize respect, focus, and self-control. Kids learn how to follow instructions, set goals, and stay disciplined — traits that benefit them academically and socially.

Team Bonding

Martial arts training builds strong bonds between teammates. The shared experience of training and competing creates a supportive environment where kids encourage and motivate each other. These friendships often last a lifetime.

Athlas Training Team Supports Jiu-Jitsu Competition

At Athlas, we strongly encourage our students to participate in Jiu-Jitsu competitions. Competing is one of the fastest ways to improve technical skills, build confidence, and develop mental toughness.

Competition teaches kids to analyze their strengths and weaknesses, adjust their strategies, and push themselves beyond their comfort zones. It also reinforces the importance of hard work, preparation, and teamwork.