Quick answer: Surrey has excellent martial arts and gymnastics programs for children starting as young as age 3. Expect to pay $100–$200/month for martial arts (taekwondo, karate, jiu-jitsu, or kickboxing) and $99–$140/month for recreational gymnastics, depending on class length and frequency. Most schools offer a free trial class. Top-rated options include Chang’s Taekwondo, Jong Kim Martial Arts, Red Tiger Martial Arts, White Rock Gymnastics, and Surrey Gymnastic Society.
Last updated: August 2026
Kids’ Martial Arts & Gymnastics: Key Numbers (2026)
- 92% of parents report increased self-esteem in children who train martial arts (National Education Association)
- Reduced aggression: A 2025 systematic review found martial arts participation improves prosocial behaviour while reducing aggressive behaviour in children (Adolescent Research Review)
- $100–$200/month is the typical range for kids’ martial arts in Surrey; gymnastics runs $99–$140/month for recreational classes (Jong Kim Martial Arts, BC Gymnastics)
- Age 3–5 is when most programs accept beginners — introductory classes focus on coordination, listening, and fun, not competition
- Financial help available: Athletics for Kids Surrey covers registration fees and equipment for children 5–18 facing financial barriers
Best Martial Arts Schools for Kids in Surrey
Chang’s Taekwondo — Enterprise Way, Surrey
Chang’s Taekwondo offers structured ITF-style taekwondo classes for children of all ages and skill levels in Surrey. The program emphasises self-discipline, confidence, physical fitness, and respect through traditional Korean martial arts training. Classes follow a progressive belt system that gives kids clear goals and visible milestones. A solid choice for families who want a values-driven, traditional martial arts environment.
Jong Kim Martial Arts — Newton, Surrey
One of Surrey’s longest-running martial arts schools, Jong Kim has served the Surrey and Delta communities for over 50 years. They offer ITF taekwondo, karate, self-defence, and kickboxing for kids and adults. Classes run twice per week, 45 minutes each. Parents consistently praise the affordability and quality of instruction. Free trial class available. Located at 136-7536 130 Street, Surrey.
Red Tiger Martial Arts — Guildford, Surrey
Red Tiger blends multiple disciplines — karate, kung fu, kickboxing, hapkido, hwarangdo, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu — into a well-rounded program for children and adults. Located in Guildford, it’s a good fit for kids who want variety rather than a single-style focus. Trial packages available to start.
Triunity Martial Arts Studio — Surrey
Triunity offers Hawaiian Kenpo Karate (ages 5+), Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (ages 3+), and Sports Kickboxing/Muay Thai (ages 8+). The BJJ program starting at age 3 is one of the youngest entry points in Surrey, making it a strong option for families with very young children interested in grappling arts.
Seiken Martial Arts — Surrey
Seiken teaches authentic Shinkyokushin Karate for kids and adults. Their kids’ program builds discipline, focus, and physical fitness through traditional full-contact karate training adapted for younger students.
Aries Martial Arts — Surrey
Aries MMA offers kids’ karate and mixed martial arts classes for ages 4–12, combining striking and grappling fundamentals in a fun, supportive environment. Free trial class available.
Best Gymnastics Programs for Kids in Surrey
White Rock Gymnastics — South Surrey / White Rock
White Rock Gymnastics offers recreational and competitive gymnastics, ninja/parkour, aerial silks, and sampler classes for children of all ages and skill levels. Coaches are known for being kind, high-energy, and encouraging. The facility has parent viewing and ample parking. Continuous enrollment with flexible registration makes it easy to start mid-season.
Surrey Gymnastic Society — Newton
With 600+ competitive and recreational gymnasts, Surrey Gymnastic Society is one of the largest gymnastics clubs in the region. They offer programs from kindergarten through high school, mixing recreational and competitive streams. Located at 13260 78 Ave #21, Surrey. A great option for kids who may want to transition from recreational to competitive gymnastics as they progress.
Crossover Athletics — South Surrey
Crossover Athletics blends age-appropriate weightlifting, gymnastics, bodyweight exercises, and games for kids and teens. It’s a functional-fitness approach rather than traditional gymnastics — ideal for young athletes who want strength and coordination training without following a competitive gymnastics track.
What Does It Cost?
| Activity | Typical monthly cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Martial arts (private studio) | $100–$200/month | Usually 2 classes/week, 45–60 min each; uniform $40–$80 extra |
| Martial arts (rec centre) | $60–$100/session block | 8–12 week sessions at City of Surrey rec centres |
| Gymnastics (recreational) | $99–$140/month | 45–90 min classes, 1x/week; longer classes cost more |
| Gymnastics (competitive) | $200–$400+/month | Multiple sessions per week; competition fees extra |
Most private martial arts studios require a uniform (dobok, gi, or similar) costing $40–$80. Belt testing fees typically run $30–$60 per grading. Many schools offer sibling discounts or family rates — always ask.
Martial Arts vs. Gymnastics: Which Is Right for Your Child?
| Martial arts | Gymnastics | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Confidence, discipline, self-defence, focus | Flexibility, coordination, strength, body awareness |
| Structure | Belt/rank progression with clear milestones | Level-based progression; competitive track optional |
| Social style | Partner work, respect-based culture, bowing etiquette | Individual performance in a team environment |
| Starting age | 3–5 for most programs | 18 months (parent-and-tot) to 5 (independent) |
| Physical demands | Cardiovascular, agility, balance | Flexibility, upper-body strength, spatial awareness |
Many Surrey kids do both — martial arts for confidence and discipline, gymnastics for flexibility and body control. If your child can only pick one, consider their personality: kids who thrive with structure and visible rank progression tend to love martial arts; kids who love climbing, flipping, and physical challenge tend to gravitate to gymnastics.
How to Choose the Right Program
- Take the free trial — almost every martial arts school and most gymnastics clubs offer one. Watch how the instructor interacts with beginners, not just advanced students.
- Check the instructor-to-student ratio — smaller groups mean more individual attention, especially for kids under 7.
- Ask about the philosophy — some schools emphasise competition and tournament results; others focus on character development and personal progress. Neither is wrong, but the fit matters.
- Consider location and schedule — the best program is the one your child attends consistently. A school 10 minutes away that they go to twice a week beats a “better” school 30 minutes away that becomes a chore.
- Look for a contract-free option — many Surrey schools now offer month-to-month billing. Avoid long-term contracts until you’re sure the program is a fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What age can kids start martial arts in Surrey?
Most Surrey martial arts schools accept children from age 4–5 for beginner classes. Triunity Martial Arts offers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu starting at age 3. Introductory classes focus on coordination, listening skills, and fun — not sparring or competition.
How much do kids’ martial arts classes cost in Surrey?
Private martial arts studios in Surrey typically charge $100–$200 per month for two classes per week. City of Surrey recreation centres offer martial arts programs in 8–12 week session blocks for $60–$100. Uniforms cost $40–$80 extra.
Is martial arts safe for young children?
Yes. Reputable programs for young children focus on movement, balance, and discipline — not contact sparring. Sparring is introduced gradually at higher belt levels, always with protective gear and supervision. Look for schools with certified, experienced youth instructors.
What’s the best martial art for kids who lack confidence?
Taekwondo and karate are popular choices — the structured belt system gives kids visible milestones and a strong sense of achievement. Research shows 92% of parents report increased self-esteem in children who train martial arts.
How much do kids’ gymnastics classes cost in Surrey?
Recreational gymnastics in Surrey runs $99–$140 per month for one class per week (45–90 minutes). Competitive programs cost $200–$400+ per month with multiple weekly sessions.
What if we can’t afford registration fees or equipment?
Athletics for Kids Surrey provides funding for children aged 5–18 so they can participate in sports — including martial arts and gymnastics — regardless of financial circumstances.
Looking for more kids’ activities? Browse all sports activities for kids in Surrey on KidsServiceHub, or see our guide to fall kids’ activities in Surrey and kids’ swimming lessons in Surrey. Run a martial arts school or gymnastics club? Get listed today.
