Murfreesboro, Tennessee, offers a variety of martial arts programs designed to help children develop discipline, confidence, and physical fitness. Whether your child is interested in traditional karate, taekwondo, or mixed martial arts, there are numerous schools in the area that provide quality instruction tailored to young learners.
To create this guide, we interviewed parents, conducted online research and gathered insights from reviews and ratings on platforms like Google, Yelp, and Reddit posts, and in some cases from parent interviews through our reporting. This list showcases classes recommended by parents based on their personal experiences. Each program’s offerings, location, and schedule were carefully verified to provide families with accurate, reliable information to support their decision-making.
Ready to get started? Check out these great options:
1. Bill Taylor’s Bushido School of Karate
Established in 1972, Bill Taylor’s Bushido School of Karate is Murfreesboro’s first and largest private martial arts facility, offering comprehensive programs for children.
Things to Know:
- Focuses on Wado Ryu style of Karate.
- Offers Kinder-Karate classes for young children.
- Emphasizes self-discipline, respect, and community involvement.
- Provides free self-defense seminars and community outreach programs. Birthday parties also available.
- Two convenient locations in Murfreesboro
What families are saying:
One Facebook mom shared her review of her child’s experience,
Bill Taylor School of Karate has been transformative for my child. The instructors’ dedication to teaching goes beyond technique—they create a supportive environment that fosters confidence and discipline. My child’s progress is not just in karate skills but also in character development. Grateful for the positive impact this school has had on my child’s journey.
Location Details:
- Website: bskonline.com
- Addresses: 1820 NW Broad St. and 1911 Business Campus Dr., Murfreesboro, TN
- Phone: (615) 893-6003 and (615) 890-6755
- Ages: Children to adults
2. Black Dragon Martial Arts
Black Dragon Martial Arts offers programs for children aged 4 and up, focusing on building confidence, discipline, and self-defense skills.
Things to Know:
- Programs for children include Little Dragons (ages 4–5) and Kids Martial Arts (ages 6–11).
- Emphasizes character development alongside physical training.
- Offers after-school programs and summer camps.
- Highly rated by parents for its supportive environment.
What parents are saying:
One Facebook mom reviewed,
My son has gained so much these last 2+ years with Black Dragon… confidence, skill, focus, respect, teamwork, determination. Amazing staff and a great program. I highly recommend Black Dragon Martial Arts.
Location Details:
- Website: blackdragonma.com
- Address: 242 Warrior Dr, Murfreesboro, TN 37128
- Phone: (615) 890-7879
- Ages: 4 and up
3. S.P.A.R. Martial Arts
Overview: S.P.A.R. Martial Arts provides a range of programs for children, focusing on speed, power, agility, and resilience.
Things to Know:
- Offers classes for various age groups: Kid Ninjas (3–4), Kid Dragons (5–7), Kid Cobras (8–12), Teen (13+), and adult
- Includes unique programs like Ninja Parkour Acrobatics.
- Provides after-school care and summer camps.
- Emphasizes personal growth and community involvement.
What parents are saying:
One member shared on the SPAR website:
My son really loves S.P.A.R martial arts, it’s a great workout, fun time, and practical training… Coaches and staff very friendly & professional.
Location Details:
- Website: sparmartialarts.com
- Address: 4183 Franklin Rd., Suite B7, Murfreesboro, TN 37128
- Phone: (615) 732-5799
- Ages: 3 and up
4. Guardian MMA
Guardian MMA offers comprehensive martial arts training, including Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai, for children and adults.
Things to Know:
- Programs for kids aged 4–15, with classes segmented by age and experience.
- Focuses on building confidence, discipline, and physical fitness.
- Provides after-school programs with school pickups.
- Offers free trial classes
What families are saying:
One Facebook mom shared her family’s experience:
Wow this gym is absolutely amazing! The staff is wonderful and the structure, amazing! The way this gym becomes more like family is incredible to witness and be a part of! My daughters joined with my husband and after seeing what it has done for them I joined in January! It is a great time, you learn a lot and the coaches are super supportive, and great with my kiddos! They also have great merchandise, great after school programs for kids, womens only group, sometimes they host a parents night out and they truly just want the best for all of their students.
Location Details:
- Website: guardianmma.com
- Address: 627C Patterson Ave, Murfreesboro, TN 37129
- Phone: (615) 895-1667
- Ages: 4–15
5. Phoenix Martial Arts
Phoenix Martial Arts is a family-owned school offering Taekwondo classes for all ages, focusing on personal development and self-defense.
Things to Know:
- Offers classes for kids, teens, and adults of all skill levels.
- Emphasizes discipline, respect, and sportsmanship.
- Instructors are certified and experienced.
- Provides a supportive and inclusive environment.
What families are saying:
One mom shared with Facebook:
The environment at Phoenix is unmatched. The knowledge that Nick brings to the table is amazing and he is fantastic with kids. Definitely a wonderful environment for families!
Location Details:
- Website: martialarts4murfreesboro.com
- Address: 2892 S Church St D, Murfreesboro, TN 37127
- Phone: (615) 488-4708
- Ages: Children to adults
6. Stevens Family Taekwondo
Stevens Family Taekwondo offers traditional Taekwondo classes for children and adults, with a focus on self-defense and physical fitness.
Things to Know:
- Provides morning and evening classes for kids.
- Offers an after-school program serving multiple schools in the area.
- Led by Master Jack R. Stevens, Jr., with over 40 years of experience.
- Includes summer camps, boxing, and Krav Maga classes
What families are saying:
One parent sharend with Facebook:
Great place! Great staff! Always thinking about their students and parents !!
Location Details:
- Website: stevenstkd.com
- Address: 805 Commercial Court, Murfreesboro, TN 37129
- Phone: (615) 893-5304
- Ages: Children to adults
