What Age Can Kids Start MMA Training in Australia?

Mixed martial arts (MMA) incorporates and combines different martial arts and can take years to master. Ask any MMA athlete, and they’ll tell you that training is a long road - one that some of them wish they had started earlier!But how early is too early to start MMA training, and at what age should kids start? Let’s discuss the key considerations for kids, parents, and the discipline required to learn and train in MMA.

What is the right age to start MMA training for kids? 

Kids can start MMA training as early as 6 years of age — at this age, children already have a grasp on their advanced motor functions and are bursting with energy, making MMA training an ideal way for them to further develop their physical abilities.

That being said, MMA training at this stage will not be focused on competitive fighting, unlike with adult classes, for obvious reasons. Instead, MMA training for kids will involve a greater focus on basic movement skills, discipline, respect, and generally just having fun - all of which are foundational aspects of the sport.

What age is too old to start MMA training for children? 

There is no strict age limit for when individuals can start MMA training, even as children. In fact, many MMA practitioners have started formally training in MMA at 21 years old, and have since gone on to experience success in the sport.

The caveat is that most academies often have an age cut-off for kids MMA training – for example, our MMA classes for kids are offered to attendees up to the age of 16. Children that are older will be placed with a more mature group of students to ensure that they are getting the most out of the training.

What does MMA training for kids look like? 

MMA training for kids will involve learning fundamental techniques from a mixture of striking arts such as Muay Thai, Boxing, and Kung Fu, as well as grappling arts like Wrestling and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (grappling Gi & No Gi).

These techniques are designed to help children learn to apply MMA skills in a Combat Sport Arena, which can also be used in a self-defence scenario when all else fails. A well-designed MMA training program for kids will also place an emphasis on developing important values and character traits such as respect, self-discipline, and other social-emotional skills.

In a nutshell, MMA training for kids isn’t just about learning how to fight in the octagon — it’s about learning the foundations for becoming an individual who will excel in life, not just in the fighting ring. 

Considerations for parents before signing kids up for MMA training

Program structure

Choose a program that prioritises safety, skill development, and age-appropriate activities. MMA training for young children should focus on basic techniques and physical fitness rather than sparring.

Readiness of the child

Every child is different — while some may be physically and emotionally ready for the structure and discipline of MMA training, others might need more time before they can join in.

Level of interest

Interest is also a huge factor in how valuable and enjoyable the training will be for the child. Talk to your child to understand how they feel about being involved in MMA training before signing them up.

Parental involvement

During MMA training, children will learn about new concepts and values that parents should take the time to reinforce at home. This not only aids in their learning but also helps the child feel more supported in their interests.

Focus on fun

At this age, the focus should be on enjoying the experience and learning basic skills, rather than on intense competition or fighting. This is especially true for younger participants, as fun is a big factor that drives their continued interest in future learning.

At UMF Academy, we are proud to offer MMA training for kids aged 6-14 years in Townsville. Unlike other martial arts programs, our school uses the industry-leading Character Development System, which is specially designed in-house to teach our students valuable traits like discipline and respect.