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A fun, age-appropriate martial arts programme for children aged 5–6. Building confidence, coordination, focus, and strong character through games, movement, and martial arts.
Little Lions in Exeter
Our Little Lions programme at Exeter Martial Arts is designed especially for children aged 5–6. It’s about more than martial arts — it’s about helping your child grow, develop confidence, and build strong character in a safe, playful, and encouraging environment.
Whether your child is trying martial arts for the first time or looking to improve their confidence and fitness, our Little Lions classes make learning enjoyable, rewarding, and character-building.
The Programme
Little Lions (ages 5–6) uses fun drills, games, and simple martial arts movements to teach children important life skills. Firmly based in Japanese Jiu Jitsu, classes also incorporate elements of Kickboxing, Karate, and BJJ for a well-rounded, age-appropriate experience.
Every class develops:
Little Lions is not about pressure or performance — it’s about helping young children grow with confidence and joy.
Who It’s For
Children aged 5–6 in Exeter — beginners and those new to martial arts. Your child does not need any prior experience. Little Lions is ideal for children who want to:
Your First Classes
Every session is safe, structured, and age-appropriate — designed to keep children engaged, motivated, and learning. Your child will experience:
Expert Coaching
Chief Instructor — BJJAGB 7th Dan
Rich is a Level 4 Coach and has over 30 years of experience teaching martial arts in Exeter, including many years working with children of all ages. He has a natural ability to connect with young students, making every child feel safe, supported, and proud of their progress.
“Seeing a five-year-old walk in nervous and leave beaming with pride is one of the best things about this job.”
BJJAGB 3rd Dan — Level 3 Coach
Damien has been training at EMA for 15 years and has extensive experience teaching children. A Modern Languages Professor at Exeter University, he brings patience, clarity, and warmth to every session, helping young children feel at ease and excited to learn.
“Children learn fastest when they’re having fun. That’s the heart of everything we do in Little Lions.”
Why Choose EMA
Parents across Exeter choose us because we deliver real results alongside genuine fun:
We are proud to have many adult students training today who started with us as children — grown into confident, capable martial artists.
The Results
Students regularly report:
Little Lions develops the whole child — physically, mentally, and in character.
Getting Started
No experience needed. Wear comfortable sports clothes and bring a water bottle. Arrive 5–10 minutes early and we’ll take care of the rest. Parents are welcome to watch from our viewing area.
We’ll guide you through everything else.
Free Taster
The best way to discover Little Lions is for your child to experience it. The free taster includes:
Take the First Step
Give your child the opportunity to grow in confidence, discipline, and skill. Book a free trial at Exeter Martial Arts today — no pressure, no commitment.
Common Questions
Yes — our classes are designed specifically for children new to martial arts. No experience is needed at all.
Safety is our top priority. All classes are age-appropriate, structured, and supervised by experienced instructors with DBS checks and first aid training.
Japanese Jiu Jitsu forms the foundation, with elements of Kickboxing, Karate, and BJJ integrated in a fun, age-appropriate way.
Exeter Martial Arts runs Little Lions classes at our Exeter dojo. We welcome children aged 5–6 with no prior experience, and parents are always welcome to watch.
By building coordination, focus, discipline, confidence, and martial arts foundations, children transition seamlessly into our Junior classes (ages 7–11) when the time is right.
Yes. Parents and family are welcome to watch from our viewing area, which is equipped with Wi-Fi and coffee facilities.
