KIDS JIU JITSU

Join our community!

Jiu Jitsu will do more for your child than any other sport or martial art.

It’s a powerful tool for building confidence, discipline, and resilience in children.

Through fun and engaging training, your child will learn bully-proof self-defense techniques while developing important life skills.

The structured environment of Jiu Jitsu encourages respect for others and fosters teamwork, helping children grow in both physical and emotional strength.

Fitness, Self Defense, and Mental Toughness... Disguised as Fun!

Not only will your child improve their physical fitness, flexibility, and coordination, but they’ll also practice mental toughness and problem-solving abilities.

Jiu Jitsu teaches children how to stay calm under pressure, win and lose gracefully, and think critically and creatively in challenging situations—skills that extend far beyond the mats.

Whether they are learning how to defend themselves or simply developing perseverance, Jiu Jitsu can help them build a positive mindset that lasts a lifetime.

Inclusive Community and Individual Attention

Capital MMA DC is a close, welcoming, and inclusive community of families. We go the extra mile in accommodating disabilities in children, and give keen attention to teaching in a way that suits multiple different learning styles. Our instructors are world-class experts in their field, who care deeply about every single family that walks through our doors. We can't wait to welcome you!

HI, I'M DANIELLE!

After over a decade in education, I joined our amazing Kids BJJ program here at Capital MMA DC as the Head Coach and Program Manager. We are a league of hard-working, resilient, compassionate students learning world-class techniques and world-class respect and perseverance. Our families are welcoming, supportive, and super passionate about creating community here.

I have experience teaching students with all sorts of disabilities, and will always go the extra mile to make your child feel welcomed and heard. With a wild background that began in professional theatre and landed in BJJ, I lead with empathy and excitement, and hope to bring that energy to your children as well.

Today, I am currently the #1 ranked female BJJ athlete in the world at my belt and weight class. I promise that you won't get this level of instruction and care from any other program in DC.

"The instructors are incredibly talented jiu jitsu martial artists, but more importantly, they are all gifted with the ability to break down and translate complex jiu jitsu moves in a way that's fun, accessible and safe."

- Julie K. (Children ages 8 and 10)

"After a few months, I've seen [my son] become more self assured, comfortable competing in competition, and less timid around other kids. The staff here is amazing with kids and the parents have become a large family."

- Terry B. (Child age 7)

"Coach Danielle and her team have created a warm, caring community where my kid and those around him are learning about boundaries, respect, and strategy. We could not be happier with this program and our experience."

- Jennifer C. (Child age 12)

"The coaches are great about meeting the kids where they are and helping them realize their potential, and they have an uncanny ability to command a room of energetic students! Iʻve watched my kids improve so much over the last year as their dedication and discipline pay off."

- Mariam A. (Children ages 7 and 10)

A few ways we go above and beyond...

Video Instructionals

In our monthly newsletter, we send out videos of techniques we covered in class to encourage students to practice what they learn at home, and share new innovations with their families.

This is perfect for students who are eager to share their passion with those they love outside the gym, and for students with disabilities who struggle with memorization.

Community Events

We constantly organize fun community events like our annual picnic, movie nights, and holiday parties.

We aim to foster our Capital MMA community by allowing our kids and parents to make lasting friendships both in and out of the jiu jitsu setting. This helps everyone feel included and supported!

Competition Leagues

We organize in-house kids competition leagues that allow students to challenge themselves and test their skills in a tournament setting-- while remaining a safe, encouraging, friendly atmosphere.

This teaches our students toughness and resilience, while also emphasizing winning and losing with grace and humility.