Build self-confidence, flexibility and strength while improving concentration and keeping active through our collection of martial arts programs.
Martial Arts & Ninja Classes
Youth & Adult Karate
Ninja Classes
Archery Classes
Instilling healthy habits into children helps them grow into healthy adults. Making exercise fun turns working out from a chore to be sluggishly completed -- and never fully adopted -- into an activity that they look forward to time and time again.
Youth Sports Programs at the Y
Discover YMCA youth sports programs in Chester County—including basketball, soccer, NFL Flag Football, swimming, gymnastics, pickleball and more. Our leagues and clinics go beyond the scoreboard, building skills, confidence, teamwork, and character in every child.
Gymnastics Programs
Kids learn and develop balance, flexibility, strength and tumbling skills on age-appropriate equipment in a fun, open environment. The YMCA offers recreational and progressive gymnastics classes for children of all ages and abilities.
More About YMCA Martial Arts & Ninja Offerings
Ninja classes help children to explore their world in a safe and structured environment. Classes will teach age-appropriate tumbling, jumping, swinging and balancing.
Older children will have the chance to enjoy a specialized Ninja gym at the Oscar Lasko YMCA and will benefit from the Donna Watters Gymnastics Training Center which features competition-level gymnastics equipment.
Ninja With Me
Ages 2 - 3
Ninja with me is a class designed for a grown up/child combination. This is the first step in creating confidence in young children. The structure will be organized yet playful and is the perfect way to socialize your child and get them moving!
PreK Ninja
Ages 4 - 6
For our Ninjas ages 4-5, this is an entry level class to this all new sport inspired by gymnastics, obstacle training and martial arts! Structured and fun, this class will get your child to explore freestyle movement.
Youth Ninja
Ages 6 - 8
Learning through a combination of flips, rolls, jumps, and kicks, children will test their strength and agility through obstacle courses and various techniques.
Youth Karate
Ages 6 - 13
From beginners to black belt, this class incorporates a traditional karate program along with self-defense techniques. Focusing on Korean-style karate with a foundation from Funakoshi GIGI, this class is taught by Mark Johnson. Johnson not only has a bachelor's degree in education but he is also certified by PSKK and the International Federation of Martial Arts. The class meets twice weekly. Payment plans are available.
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Archery
Ages 7 - 12
Archery, one of the highlights of summer camp, can now be enjoyed year-round! Learn the basics of archery from one of our trained staff. All equipment is provided.
Ninja
Ages 9 - 12
Our oldest children will learn through a combination of flips, rolls, jumps, and kicks while testing their confidence and strength. This is a structured program where children will learn through various training techniques and obstacles.
Adult Karate
Ages 12 +
From beginners to black belt, this class incorporates a traditional karate program along with self-defense techniques. Focusing on Korean style karate with a foundation from Funakoshi GIGI, this class is taught by Mark Johnson. Johnson not only has a bachelor's degree in education, but he is also certified by PSKK and the International Federation of Martial Arts. Class meets twice weekly. Payment plans are available.
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Gymnastics Offerings
Tumble With Me
Ages 2 - 3
Children and their grown ups will have a blast discovering the fun of gymnastics together. Our youngest gymnasts, ages 2-3, will tumble, jump, balance, and hang as they explore the world around them on mats, beams, and bars. Children are encouraged to explore as their grown up supports and encourages them. Enjoy quality time on the move!
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Tumble Just Me
Ages 4 - 6
Children will flip for this gymnastics class as they begin to learn body control and coordination. Young gymnasts, ages 4-5, will explore the balance beam, learn floor exercises, and tumble on mats as they build independence. They'll love to show you their forward rolls and donkey kicks!
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The YMCA provides a wide variety of group exercise classes - all included with membership!
Beginner Tai Chi is and ancient health practice from China that incorporates deep abdominal breathing with very slow meditative movements. Benefits include reduced stress and strengthened immune function, increased range of motion and stability as well as an improved sense of well-being.
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Tai Chi is and ancient health practice from China that incorporates deep abdominal breathing with very slow meditative movements. Benefits include reduced stress and strengthened immune function, increased range of motion and stability as well as an improved sense of well-being.
View schedule >
Aqua Tai Chi is a variation on the ancient health practice from China that incorporates deep abdominal breathing with very slow meditative movements held in the water. Benefits include reduced stress, strengthened immune function, increased range of motion and stability, as well as an improved sense of well-being.