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...

Discovering BJJ together as a family

Members get access to a huge collection of videos that detail techniques and drills we covered in class to allow for extra practice at home.

This encourages kids to connect with their parents by learning BJJ together as a family, and helps assist kids who struggle with memorization and comprehension in class.

Classes to suit every child's unique learning style

We offer several types of classes for every age group, designed to accommodate every child's ability and learning style.

Some classes are play and movement-based, some center instruction and repetition, and some teach foundational concepts through games.

View our Kids Class Schedule

Fun, safe ways to try competition

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

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

Community events beyond the mats

From movie nights, to local volunteer events, to our annual picnic in the park, we are constantly gathering for fun community events.

Our Capital family is made up of lasting friendships both in and out of the gym. This helps everyone feel included and supported!