Martial Arts

Martial Arts

The Y offers high-quality martial arts programming for children and adults in an encouraging, non-intimidating, and family-friendly environment. Our instructors are among the best and promote hard work, discipline, honor, integrity, and respect for themselves and others.


FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE IS AVAILABLE. At the Y, no one is denied service due to the inability to pay. Funds for Financial Assistance are provided through the YMCA’s Annual Giving Campaign. Learn more here!

If you are pre-qualified for Financial Assistance, please note that some of our programs have minimum fees in order to cover costs of materials and supplies. This fee may be higher depending on your amount of assistance.

A SAFE PLACE FOR ALL. Keep up-to-date with our current Safety Policies.


Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

West Boise YMCA & Boise City Aquatics Center
9/7/26 - 9/30/26
VIEW

Students learn fundamental Gracie Jiu-Jitsu self-defense techniques, along with the history and philosophy of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. A key focus is helping students understand how decision-making can affect their safety and survival in a real-life attack.

Pre-K (Ages 3-4)  | This program provides them an environment that is safe, encouraging and fun with structure and boundries as well. The children focus on improving listening and large motor skills while exercising and learning how become coachable and good training partners. They will learn the basics of grappling (wrestling, Jiu-Jitsu, Judo) that will help them build a foundation of training that will make for an easy transition into one of our older youth Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo and / or wrestling programs.

School Age (Ages 5-12) | Students line up and bow in before class begins. Depending on the lesson plan, classes may start with Jiu-Jitsu warm-ups, a history and philosophy lesson, or both. Students then learn and practice techniques with partners in a controlled environment while the instructor monitors for safety and proper execution. Classes may also include live sparring (grappling and takedowns) and fun games that help reinforce Jiu-Jitsu skills. At the end of class, students line up and bow out.

Adult (Ages 13+) | Students line up and bow in before class begins. Classes may start with Jiu-Jitsu warm-ups, a History & Philosophy lesson, or both. Students then learn and practice techniques with partners in a controlled, non-contact environment while the instructor monitors for safety and proper technique. Activities and drills are designed to reinforce skills and build confidence. At the end of class, students line up and bow out. No live physical sparring is conducted during this class.

To participate in class, students will need:

Instructor | Ronnie Wuest was an owner of Meia Guarda Gracie Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for 17 years and has dedicated much of his life to martial arts and self-defense. He began wrestling in elementary school and continued through high school and college. In 1998, he started training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has remained committed to the art ever since. In the early 2000s, he expanded his training into mixed martial arts, further developing his skills and knowledge.

Driven by a passion for self-defense and personal empowerment, Ronnie is committed to helping others build confidence, learn practical self-defense techniques, and develop the skills needed to protect themselves and their loved ones.



Registration Information  

Open Close Register At MemberNon-Member
8/10/26 12/31/27 Online / Front Desk $ 30.00$ 70.00

Available Sessions

Date(s)
09/07/26 - 09/28/26
Pre K | Ages 3-4 - Mo,We - 5:30 pm - 6:00 pm
Register  
09/07/26 - 09/28/26
School Age | Ages 5-12 - Mo,We - 6:10 pm - 6:55 pm
Register  
09/07/26 - 09/30/26
Adult | Ages 13+ - Mo,We - 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Register  

Butokukan Karate | 6-9yrs

Tomlinson South Meridian YMCA
9/9/26 - 12/18/26
VIEW

Butokukan Karate is a traditional Japanese martial arts program that focuses on discipline, respect, and personal growth. Students learn fundamental karate techniques including stances, blocks, strikes, kata (forms), and basic self-defense, while building confidence, focus, strength, and coordination. Classes emphasize character development, perseverance, and respect for self and others, making this program suitable for all skill levels—from beginners to advanced students.

 

The Y offers high-quality martial arts programming for children and adults in an encouraging, non-intimidating, and family-friendly environment. Our instructors are among the best and promote hard work, discipline, honor, integrity, and respect for themselves and others.


FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE IS AVAILABLE. At the Y, no one is denied service due to the inability to pay. Funds for Financial Assistance are provided through the YMCA’s Annual Giving Campaign. Learn more here!

If you are pre-qualified for Financial Assistance, please note that some of our programs have minimum fees in order to cover costs of materials and supplies. This fee may be higher depending on your amount of assistance.

A SAFE PLACE FOR ALL. Keep up-to-date with our current Safety Policies.



Registration Information  

Open Close Register At MemberNon-Member
12/22/25 12/31/27 Online / Front Desk $ 30.00$ 70.00

Available Sessions

Date(s)
09/09/26 - 10/02/26
We,Fr - 6:30 pm - 7:15 pm
Register  
Closes
09/15/2026
10/07/26 - 10/30/26
We,Fr - 6:30 pm - 7:15 pm
Registration
will open on
09/06/2026
11/04/26 - 11/27/26
We,Fr - 6:30 pm - 7:15 pm
Registration
will open on
10/04/2026
12/02/26 - 12/18/26
We,Fr - 6:30 pm - 7:15 pm
Registration
will open on
11/01/2026

Butokukan Karate |10+ years

Tomlinson South Meridian YMCA
9/9/26 - 12/18/26
VIEW

Butokukan Karate is a traditional Japanese martial arts program that focuses on discipline, respect, and personal growth. Students learn fundamental karate techniques including stances, blocks, strikes, kata (forms), and basic self-defense, while building confidence, focus, strength, and coordination. Classes emphasize character development, perseverance, and respect for self and others, making this program suitable for all skill levels—from beginners to advanced students.

 

The Y offers high-quality martial arts programming for children and adults in an encouraging, non-intimidating, and family-friendly environment. Our instructors are among the best and promote hard work, discipline, honor, integrity, and respect for themselves and others.


FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE IS AVAILABLE. At the Y, no one is denied service due to the inability to pay. Funds for Financial Assistance are provided through the YMCA’s Annual Giving Campaign. Learn more here!

If you are pre-qualified for Financial Assistance, please note that some of our programs have minimum fees in order to cover costs of materials and supplies. This fee may be higher depending on your amount of assistance.

A SAFE PLACE FOR ALL. Keep up-to-date with our current Safety Policies.



Registration Information  

Open Close Register At MemberNon-Member
1/23/26 12/31/27 Online / Front Desk $ 30.00$ 70.00

Available Sessions

Date(s)
09/09/26 - 10/02/26
We,Fr - 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Register  
Closes
09/15/2026
10/07/26 - 10/30/26
We,Fr - 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Registration
will open on
09/06/2026
11/04/26 - 11/27/26
We,Fr - 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Registration
will open on
10/04/2026
12/02/26 - 12/18/26
We,Fr - 7:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Registration
will open on
11/01/2026

Jiu-Jitsu | 6-9yrs

Tomlinson South Meridian YMCA
8/4/26 - 12/17/26
VIEW

Kids Jiu‑Jitsu (Ages 6–9) – Beginner Class
Our beginner Jiu‑Jitsu program introduces young students to the fundamentals of this dynamic martial art in a fun, structured, and confidence‑building environment. Kids learn essential movements, basic positions, and simple techniques through drills, games, and partner activities designed specifically for their age group.

THIS CLASS DOES NOT AUTO ENROLL, PLEASE SAVE YOUR SPOT BY REGISTERING FOR MULTIPLE CLASSES. Classes will open up 60days prior to the first day of the session.

What Students Will Learn
• Foundational Jiu‑Jitsu movements and body awareness
• How to fall safely and move with control
• Beginner positions such as guard, mount, and side control
• Respect, discipline, teamwork, and problem‑solving
• How to stay calm and think under pressure

Class Atmosphere
We focus on encouragement, effort, and having fun while learning. Coaches guide students step‑by‑step, helping them build coordination, confidence, and healthy habits that carry beyond the mat.

Important Safety Note
Jiu‑Jitsu is a contact martial art, and students will participate in supervised partner drills that involve close physical interaction. Safety is our top priority: all activities are age‑appropriate, controlled, and taught with clear rules to ensure a positive experience for every child.



Registration Information  

Open Close Register At MemberNon-Member
2/13/26 2/14/27 Online / Front Desk $ 30.00$ 70.00

Available Sessions

Date(s)
08/04/26 - 08/27/26
Tu,Th - 6:30 pm - 7:20 pm
Registration
Closed on
08/17/2026
09/01/26 - 09/24/26
Tu,Th - 6:30 pm - 7:20 pm
Session is Full
09/29/26 - 10/22/26
Tu,Th - 6:30 pm - 7:20 pm
Session is Full
11/03/26 - 11/19/26
Tu,Th - 6:30 pm - 7:20 pm
Registration
will open on
09/04/2026
12/01/26 - 12/17/26
Tu,Th - 6:30 pm - 7:20 pm
Registration
will open on
10/02/2026

Jiu-Jitsu | 10-13yrs

Tomlinson South Meridian YMCA
8/4/26 - 12/17/26
VIEW

Kids Jiu‑Jitsu (Ages 10-13) – Beginner Class
Our beginner Jiu‑Jitsu program introduces young students to the fundamentals of this dynamic martial art in a fun, structured, and confidence‑building environment. Kids learn essential movements, basic positions, and simple techniques through drills, games, and partner activities designed specifically for their age group.

THIS CLASS DOES NOT AUTO ENROLL, PLEASE SAVE YOUR SPOT BY REGISTERING FOR MULTIPLE CLASSES. Classes will open up 60days prior to the first day of the session.

What Students Will Learn
• Foundational Jiu‑Jitsu movements and body awareness
• How to fall safely and move with control
• Beginner positions such as guard, mount, and side control
• Respect, discipline, teamwork, and problem‑solving
• How to stay calm and think under pressure

Class Atmosphere
We focus on encouragement, effort, and having fun while learning. Coaches guide students step‑by‑step, helping them build coordination, confidence, and healthy habits that carry beyond the mat.

Important Safety Note
Jiu‑Jitsu is a contact martial art, and students will participate in supervised partner drills that involve close physical interaction. Safety is our top priority: all activities are age‑appropriate, controlled, and taught with clear rules to ensure a positive experience for every child.



Registration Information  

Open Close Register At MemberNon-Member
2/23/26 2/24/27 Online / Front Desk $ 30.00$ 70.00

Available Sessions

Date(s)
08/04/26 - 08/27/26
Tu,Th - 7:30 pm - 8:20 pm
Registration
Closed on
08/11/2026
09/01/26 - 09/24/26
Tu,Th - 7:30 pm - 8:20 pm
Register  
Closes
09/08/2026
09/29/26 - 10/22/26
Tu,Th - 7:30 pm - 8:20 pm
Register  
Closes
10/06/2026
11/03/26 - 11/19/26
Tu,Th - 7:30 pm - 8:20 pm
Registration
will open on
09/04/2026
12/01/26 - 12/17/26
Tu,Th - 7:30 pm - 8:20 pm
Registration
will open on
10/02/2026

Judo- 12-Weeks Course (Beginner Course)

Caldwell YMCA
6/1/26 - 2/24/27
VIEW

This is a 12-week course for beginner students.

Ages 6-12 .

Obtaining a Judo Gi is strongly encouraged and can be purchased privately or through the YMCA. Selected the Gi Size in the registration process or email the Youth Director at [email protected] for any questions.

This is designed to teach the very basics of the sport of judo with emphasis on developing coordination, agility, stamina and key muscle strength that will ensure safety. Many fun games and drills will be used to develop these skills to help. More emphasis will be put on learning ukemi (falling) techniques, judo etiquette and becoming familiar with the principles of judo.

Class Times: Monday & Wednesday, 5:30-6:15pm

Contracted and Partnered with Boise Valley Judo Club.



Registration Information  

Open Close Register At MemberNon-Member
8/19/25 12/31/26 Online / Front Desk $ 90.00$ 210.00

Available Sessions

Date(s) Spots
Available
Special Rate
06/01/26 - 08/26/26
Summer Session (June, July, Aug) - Mo,We - 5:30 pm - 6:15 pm
- $90 - $210
Registration
Closed on
06/15/2026
08/31/26 - 11/25/26
Fall Session (Sept, Oct, Nov) - Mo,We - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
- $90 - $210 Session is Full
11/30/26 - 02/24/27
Winter Session (Dec, Jan, Feb) - Mo,We - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
8 / 8 Available $90 - $210
Registration
will open on
10/16/2026

Judo- Waz-ari Intermediate (8-14)

Caldwell YMCA
8/3/26 - 12/16/26
VIEW

Ages 9-14, Pass Novice Level

Obtaining a Judo Gi is strongly encouraged and can be purchased privately or through the instructor at [email protected].

A one hour class designed to teach the very basics of the sport of judo with emphasis on developing coordination, agility, stamina and key muscle strength that will ensure safety. Many fun games and drills will be used to develop these skills to help. More emphasis will be put on learning ukemi (falling) techniques, judo etiquette and becoming familiar with the principles of judo.

Contracted and Partnered with Boise Valley Judo Club.



Registration Information  

Open Close Register At MemberNon-Member
7/29/25 12/31/26 Online / Front Desk $ 30.00$ 70.00

Available Sessions

Date(s) Special Rate
08/03/26 - 08/26/26
August Session - Mo,We - 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
$30 - $70
Registration
Closed on
08/10/2026
08/31/26 - 09/23/26
September - Mo,We - 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
$30 - $70 Register  
Closes
09/07/2026
09/28/26 - 10/21/26
October - Mo,We - 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
$30 - $70 Register  
Closes
10/05/2026
10/26/26 - 11/18/26
November - Mo,We - 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
$30 - $70 Register  
Closes
11/02/2026
11/23/26 - 12/16/26
December - Mo,We - 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
$30 - $70 Register  
Closes
11/30/2026

Karate Kung Fu (Beginner)

Caldwell YMCA
8/4/26 - 12/22/26
VIEW

Join Sifu Johnny for a powerful blend of Chinese Karate and traditional Kung Fu. This dynamic class will teach self-defense skills with precise strikes and fluid kicks. All rooted in the enriching values of the martial art.

Karate Kung Fu: Tuesdays & Thursdays 5:30-6:30 pm

Purchase or Rental of Gis are separate.

Question? Call 208 459 2498 ext 654 or Caldwell Youth Director



Registration Information  

Open Close Register At MemberNon-Member
9/23/25 12/31/26 Online / Front Desk $ 30.00$ 70.00

Available Sessions

Date(s) Spots
Available
Special Rate
08/04/26 - 08/27/26
August (Beginners) - Tu,Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
- $30 - $70
Registration
Closed on
08/11/2026
09/01/26 - 09/24/26
September (Beginners) - Tu,Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
4 / 14 Available $30 - $70 Register  
Closes
09/08/2026
09/29/26 - 10/22/26
October (Beginners) - Tu,Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
9 / 14 Available $30 - $70 Register  
Closes
10/06/2026
10/27/26 - 11/19/26
November (Beginners) - Tu,Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
10 / 14 Available $30 - $70 Register  
Closes
11/02/2026
11/24/26 - 12/22/26
December (Beginners) - Tu,Th - 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
11 / 14 Available $30 - $70 Register  
Closes
12/01/2026

Karate Kung Fu (Intermediate/Advance: 8-15)

Caldwell YMCA
8/4/26 - 12/22/26
VIEW

Join Sifu Johnny for a powerful blend of Chinese Karate and traditional Kung Fu. This dynamic class will teach self-defense skills with precise strikes and fluid kicks. All rooted in the enriching values of the martial art.

Karate Kung Fu (8-15 years): Tuesdays & Thursdays, 6:30-7:30pm

Purchase or Rental of Gis are separate.

Question? Call 208 459 2498 ext 654 or Caldwell Youth Director



Registration Information  

Open Close Register At MemberNon-Member
11/6/25 12/31/26 Online / Front Desk $ 30.00$ 70.00

Available Sessions

Date(s) Special Rate
08/04/26 - 08/27/26
August (Intermediate/Advance) - Tu,Th - 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
$30 - $70
Registration
Closed on
08/18/2026
09/01/26 - 09/24/26
September (Intermediate/Advance) - Tu,Th - 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
$30 - $70 Register  
Closes
09/15/2026
09/29/26 - 10/22/26
October (Intermediate/Advance) - Tu,Th - 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
$30 - $70 Register  
Closes
10/13/2026
10/27/26 - 11/19/26
November (Intermediate/Advance) - Tu,Th - 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
$30 - $70 Register  
Closes
11/10/2026
11/24/26 - 12/22/26
December (Intermediate/Advance) - Tu,Th - 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
$30 - $70 Register  
Closes
12/08/2026

Self Defense Class (Ages 14+)

Downtown Boise YMCA
9/19/26 - 9/19/26
VIEW

Self-Defense (Teens & Adults)

Designed for teens and adults, this self-defense program focuses on practical awareness, confidence, and real-world safety strategies. Participants will learn foundational self-defense principles from Master Duke, a highly experienced martial arts instructor with decades of training and leadership experience.
This course emphasizes that self-defense begins long before physical contact occurs. Participants will explore topics such as situational awareness, avoidance strategies, recognizing potential threats, the importance of physical conditioning, reaction time, movement, and decision-making under pressure. The class will also introduce basic self-defense techniques and mindset training designed to increase confidence and preparedness.
No prior martial arts or self-defense experience is required. Participants should wear comfortable athletic clothing and bring a water bottle.

Contact:



Registration Information  

Open Close Register At MemberNon-Member
7/30/26 1/31/27 Online / Front Desk $ 30.00$ 50.00

Available Sessions

Date(s)
09/19/26
Self Defense Class - Sa - 9:00 am - 10:30 am
Register  
Closes
09/26/2026

Taekwondo

Downtown Boise YMCA
8/1/26 - 12/31/26
VIEW

It is never too late to start! For the first timer we can introduce an entirely new athletic experience. Taekwondo compliments a healthy life-style by developing a well-rounded exercise program and approach toward overall health. Taekwondo offers an extremely rewarding experience for all. If a student has prior experience, they will be acknowledged for their work and will not have to start over as a white belt. We welcome all levels and abilities.

Taekwondo is an Auto Enrollment program. Participants will be automatically enrolled in the remaining months of the current calendar year and the YMCA will charge the payment method on file on the 1st of each month. Please email [email protected]

SCHEDULE:

  • Ages 4-11: Monday-Friday 5pm-6pm, can attend as many or as few classes as desired
  • Ages 12+: Monday-Friday 6pm-7pm, can attend as many or as few classes as desired

REGISTRATION INFORMATION:

  • Price per month:
    1 person- member $75 non-member $125
    2 person- member $120 non-member $200
    3 person- member $180 non-member $300
    4 or more- member $210 non-member $350
  • For questions about cancellations and billing (including payment plans), please contact [email protected]

CONTACT:



Registration Information  

Open Close Register At MemberNon-Member
10/20/21 12/31/26 Online / Front Desk $ 75.00$ 125.00

Available Sessions

Date(s)
08/01/26 - 08/31/26
Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr
Register  
Closes
08/31/2026
09/01/26 - 10/01/26
Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr
Register  
Closes
10/01/2026
10/01/26 - 10/31/26
Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr
Register  
Closes
10/31/2026
11/01/26 - 12/01/26
Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr
Register  
Closes
12/01/2026
12/01/26 - 12/31/26
Mo,Tu,We,Th,Fr
Register  
Closes
12/31/2026