Kids martial arts in Reading that build confident little Dragons
Fun, high-energy kickboxing classes for 4 to 8 year olds. Your child learns focus, balance and respect, makes friends and earns belts along the way.
More than kicks and punches
Lil Dragons is designed for beginner martial artists aged 4 to 8. Classes are fun, structured and pitched just right for young children, so they stay engaged from the first bow to the last.
Each session builds the skills that help at home and at school: listening, following instructions, sitting still when it matters and trying again when something is hard.
- No experience needed. Most of our students start as complete beginners.
- Shy children welcome. Instructors keep first classes gentle and pair new starters with friendly members.
- Safe and supportive. DBS checked, safeguarding and first aid trained instructors.
Skills for the mat and for life
Every Lil Dragons class is built around the things parents tell us matter most.
Focus & listening
Short, clear drills train attention spans and following instructions.
Balance & coordination
Kicks, footwork and games build gross motor skills and body control.
Confidence
Small wins every week, from a new technique to a new belt, build self-belief.
Respect & discipline
Bowing, waiting your turn and good manners are part of every class.
Fitness & fun
An active hour that leaves them happy, tired and proud of themselves.
Friendships
A welcoming group where children make friends outside school.
What a typical session looks like
Every class follows a familiar structure, so children know what to expect and feel settled quickly.
Fun, active games that get bodies moving and attention switched on.
Stance, guard, punches and kicks, taught step by step.
Hitting focus pads and shields with a partner. The bit they love most.
Balance, coordination and self-defence skills built through drills.
A calm finish, praise for effort and a reminder of the week's focus.
Belts, badges and Student of the Month
Lil Dragons work through a coloured belt system with regular gradings, usually earning 3 to 4 belts a year. Every new belt is a moment they never forget.
- Coloured belt progression against our structured syllabus
- Student of the Month awards to celebrate effort and attitude
- A clear pathway into Dragons at age 8, and on towards black belt
Lil Dragons class times
Four classes a week across West Reading. Come to whichever venue suits you best. View the full timetable
Simple, monthly pricing
Standard membership. Or choose Premium at £55 a month, which adds gradings, MYBMA insurance, your WAKO licence and member discounts. New members pay a one-off £35 joining fee, which includes your CT-Martial Arts outfit and first year of insurance. Siblings get 10% off. Your first class is free.
What's included
- Access to Lil Dragons classes at our venues
- Structured syllabus and regular belt gradings
- Student of the Month awards
- Student Passport app to track progress
- No experience or kit needed to start
Rated 5.0 on Google
Real reviews from our members and parents. Read them all on Google
“Our 7 year old absolutely loves these classes and looks forward to them every week… It is the first activity our son has really committed to and we have seen a huge difference in his confidence.”Lizzie SibleyParent · Google review
“I enrolled all three of my sons in kickboxing classes, and it’s been a fantastic experience for them… The classes are well-structured, balancing discipline with fun.”Gabriela WilcockParent · Google review
“My son has been at CT Martial arts for over 3 years and still really enjoys the classes… The team are very supportive and helpful to the kids during lessons.”Toni KirtonParent · Google review
Lil Dragons FAQs
Is my child too young to start?
Children can start from age 4. Lil Dragons is for ages 4–8. At around 8 they move up to Dragons (ages 8–13).
What if my child is shy?
Lots of our students start nervous. Instructors keep first classes gentle and pair new starters with friendly members, so they can build confidence at their own pace.
Is kickboxing safe for young children?
Yes. Lil Dragons is a beginner class focused on technique, pad work and games, not fighting. All instructors are DBS checked and safeguarding and first aid trained.
How does grading work?
Students progress through coloured belts. Regular gradings assess each child against our syllabus, and Lil Dragons typically earn 3 to 4 belts a year.
Can I try a class before committing?
Yes. Your first class is free, with no payment and no obligation to join.
What should I wear to the first class?
Comfortable sports clothes, with bare feet or trainers. Bring a water bottle. No kit is needed for your first class; if you decide to join, your instructor will explain what you will need.
Training for the whole family
From age 4 to adult, there's a class for everyone at CT-Martial Arts.
Book your child's free first class
No payment, no obligation. Just come along, meet the instructors and watch them light up.