Kids Classes

LITTLE CUBS Jiu Jitsu Class

For students 5 - 8 years of age.

The Cubs program is designed to be a foundational introduction to Jiu-Jitsu using movement and coordination exercises, drills, and games. We aim to take a long-term approach to teaching Jiu-Jitsu in a fun, controlled and approachable way. In these classes, we help students develop confidence in their movements, spatial awareness, coordination, and control. There is also an emphasis on increasing social communication skills, camaraderie, and respect.

Controlled exposure to the weight and pressure of training with a partner creates a sense of comfort in what might otherwise be perceived as uncomfortable positions, retaining a sense of fun and play.

We aim to foster good communication skills and the importance of the verbal and non-verbal concept of “tapping-out”, keeping our Jiu-Jitsu practitioners safe.

Our goal is to build the foundation for your child’s physical, mental, and emotional strength.

JUNIOR LIONS Jiu Jitsu Class

For students from 8 - 14 years of age that have under 18 months of Jiu-Jitsu or grappling experience.

This class is designed for the maturing child to young adult and encompasses the fundamental techniques of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Children in this program will learn assertiveness, responsibility, self-restraint, and respect.

Sparring is introduced in this class under the close supervision of the instructor. Note that we do our best not to let children get overwhelmed by bigger more mature children by pairing similar size and age groups.

*Class designation considers physical and emotional maturity, technical ability, and age.

This class is an open class for the appropriate aged child.

Coaching objectives for each belt

Grey Belt series

Basic knowledge of the terminology and purpose of Jiu-Jitsu. A foundational physical understanding of Jiu-Jitsu, emphasizing maintaining balance, stance, and posture. Students become comfortable in the uniform and can tie their belts correctly.

Yellow Belt series

Punch defense, positional control, and submissions. Students have a foundational understanding of the hierarchy of positions, and mount and back-control are the central areas of focus.

Orange Belt series

Building upon positional understanding, emphasizing side-control and fluid transitions between defensive measures and counter-attacks. Students become more adept at navigating live-sparring situations from standing to ground.

Green Belt Series

Students display competence in all areas and develop an advanced guard system. Students can spar and train safely with strikes and demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of self-defense.

Grading requirements

The three main areas of assessment at Gracie Cincinnati are as follows:

1. Culture

We want our students to develop a strong understanding of the benefits of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and its self-defense-oriented values. Within the cultural lessons, we impart the Gracie Cincinnati Rules of Engagement and code of conduct to facilitate a smooth and productive learning experience for themselves and all the other students in the room. Respect for their peers, instructors, and themselves is paramount.

2. Movement

Controlled movements are imperative for students’ physical safety and the safety of their partners. They are also the building blocks for learning and developing techniques. Jiu-jitsu is a dynamic and multi-varied martial art that covers all planes of movement and can test mobility, stability, and strength.

3. Techniques

Students will need to apply techniques learned in class with clarity and precision, demonstrating an understanding of the purpose and function of the technique.