Kids Jiu Jitsu & Martial Arts in Lake Elsinore 
(Ages 7–13)

If you’re searching for  kids martial arts in Lake Elsinore,  Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) for kids near Menifee, or a program that builds real confidence—not just activity—Shimeru offers the most structured and complete youth training program in the area.

Our  Kids Jiu Jitsu program for ages 7–13 is designed to help students grow step-by-step through a clear pathway—from beginner to advanced—while developing discipline, confidence, and real self-defense skills.

A Structured 3-Level Program That Actually Develops Skill

Most kids martial arts programs group all experience levels together. That leads to frustration for beginners and stagnation for advanced students.

At Shimeru, we do it differently.

Our program is divided into  three distinct levels, so every student trains at the right pace, with the right expectations:

Beginner Level

Perfect for new students learning the fundamentals of  jiu jitsu and martial arts.
We focus on:

• Basic positions and movements
• Listening skills and discipline
• Building confidence from day one

Intermediate Level

Students begin connecting techniques and developing timing.
We emphasize:

• Controlled sparring (live training)
• Problem-solving under pressure
• Physical coordination and awareness

Advanced Level

For experienced students ready to refine and apply their skills.
Training includes:

• Advanced techniques and combinations
• Strategic thinking and composure
• Leadership and mentorship within the class

This  clear progression system keeps kids engaged, motivated, and consistently improving—something most programs simply can’t match.

More Than Just Jiu Jitsu — A Complete Training System

Shimeru offers more than a standard kids class. Your child gets access to a  well-rounded martial arts experience:

• Gi Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Classes (traditional uniform training)
• No-Gi BJJ Classes (faster-paced, modern grappling)
• Competition Class for students who want to challenge themselves
• Weekly Anti-Bullying Program focused on awareness, confidence, and real-world application

Whether your child is shy, energetic, athletic, or brand new to sports, this variety keeps training fresh and engaging.

Built for Real Confidence — Not Just Activity

Most parents who find Shimeru aren't just looking for an after-school activity — they want a program that builds lasting confidence, teaches real self-defense, and gives their child the kind of structured challenge that leads to genuine growth. That's what creates lasting change. 

At Shimeru, kids learn how to:

• Stay calm under pressure
• Handle difficult situations with confidence
• Push through challenges instead of avoiding them
• Respect themselves and others

Confidence here isn’t taught through words—it’s built through experience.

The Best Training Environment in Lake Elsinore

Shimeru is proud to offer the most complete facility for  kids martial arts in Lake Elsinore and surrounding areas:

• Nearly  3,000 sq ft of mat space across two training areas
• Spring-loaded subfloor for safety and joint protection
• More than double the class hours of other gyms in the area
• Clean, professional, family-friendly environment

We’ve built a space where kids can train hard—and parents feel confident about where they’re training.

Meet You Child's Coaches

At Shimeru, your child trains under a team of credentialed coaches with decades of combined experience — not a revolving door of assistants.

Patrick Dooley — Head Instructor. First-degree Brazilian Jiu Jitsu black belt and second-degree judo black belt. A third-generation judoka who began training more than 30 years ago. Ten years of teaching experience. 

Sammy Solis - Assistant Coach. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu brown belt, judo black belt. Five years teaching. 

Bree Dooley — Assistant Coach. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu brown belt. Five years teaching. 

Avie Barron — Assistant Coach. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu brown belt. Seven years teaching.

Our Coaching Philosophy

Our chief ambition is for every child to grow up in the program self-confident, well-adjusted, and ready to take on a challenging world. When kids have a great time on the mat, they fall in love with the sport — and that love leads to long-term success, both in training and in every other part of their lives.

Class Schedule

Our Kids Jiu Jitsu (ages 7-13) classes run Monday through Friday for Level 1 and Level 2 students. Level 3 students train in two-hour sessions starting at 4:00 PM on Mondays and Wednesday. 

For current class times by level — plus our full weekly schedule across all programs — view our full schedule. 

 Serving Lake Elsinore and Surrounding Communities

We regularly work with families from:

• Lake Elsinore
• Menifee
• Canyon Hills
• Canyon Lake
• Wildomar
• Murrieta

Families across Lake Elsinore and the surrounding communities choose Shimeru for its structured approach, experienced coaches, and dedicated focus on real skill development — not just participation. 

Why Families Choose Shimeru

What Families Are Saying

"I looked at several gyms before I made my decision and this one is by far the best Jiu Jitsu place I visited in the Lake Elsinore area. My son loves it here." 
- Nelson F., ★★★★★

"My husband and two kids have been training at Shimeru since October 2024, and love it. In just a short period of time I've already seen my kids grow in so many ways, especially in confidence and social aspects. Our daughter was incredibly nervous at first (during her trial it took her 40 minutes to step on the mat!) and now she is constantly asking to play with the other kids BEFORE class. The space is big, clean, and super welcoming — you'll be welcomed like family right away." 
— Charlene L., ★★★★★

"We transferred our daughter from another Jiu Jitsu gym a little over a month ago, and the difference has been night and day — she absolutely loves it here. SHe's more excited to train, more confident, and genuinely looks forward to every class. Professor Patrick and Coach Sammy are outstanding — great coaches who break things down in a way that really clicks." 
— Christopher C., ★★★★★

Frequently Asked Questions

What age is the best to start jiu jitsu? 

Kids can start as young as 4 through our Young Kids Fundamentals class, which focuses on basic movement, coordination, and listening skills. Our main Kids Jiu Jitsu program begins at age 7, where students can start learning real technique on a clear beginner-to-advanced pathway. There's no wrong age to begin — the earlier they start, the sooner they will build the habits of discipline and confidence that carry into everything else. 

Is jiu jitsu safe for kids? 

Yes. Jiu jitsu is one of the safest martial arts for kids because it's built on grappling and control rather than strikes. At Shimeru, we train on professional Dollamur tatami mats with a spring-loaded subfloor specifically designed to protect joints and absorb impact. Beginner classes spend weeks on fundamentals before introducing any controlled sparring. 

What's the difference between jiu jitsu, BJJ and judo?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) focuses primarily on ground grappling – positions, submissions, and escapes. Judo emphasizes throws and takedowns, with some ground work. Both are grappling arts that complement each other perfectly, which is why Shimeru teaches a curriculum that blends the best of both traditions. Your child will become a more complete martial artist here than at a school that teaches only one. 

How often should my child train?

We recommend starting with 2 classes per week to build consistency without overwhelming your child. As they progress and show interest, 3 to 4 classes per week is ideal for steady advancement through the beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels. Kids who train consistently typically see noticeable improvements in confidence, focus, and physical skill within the first two or three months. If your kid finds his or her passion in jiu jitsu and wants to train more often, we recommend you absolutely support that. 

What if my child is shy or has never done sports before?

That's one of the most common starting points for kids who join Shimeru. Our beginner classes are designed specifically for newcomers — no athletic background required. Coaches pair kids with supportive training partners and keep the environment encouraging, so shy kids usually open up within their first few sessions once they realize everyone started exactly where they are.

What does my child need to wear or bring to their first class?

For their free trial week, kids can come in athletic clothing like a t-shirt and shorts or sweatpants — no uniform needed yet. Bring a water bottle, and make sure fingernails and toenails are trimmed short for mat safety. If your child decides to continue after the trial, we'll help you get a properly fitted gi (uniform) before they need it. 

How does the belt ranking system work for kids?

Our kids program uses a colored-belt and stripe progression that rewards consistent effort, improvement, and character — not just technical skill. Students typically earn stripes every few months when training consistently and advance belts over longer periods, celebrating real milestones at each step. The goal isn't to rush through ranks but to build genuine skill and maturity at every level. 

Try a Full Week — Free

The best way to understand the difference is to experience it.

We offer a  full week free trial, giving your child time to:

• Get comfortable on the mat
• Meet coaches and other students
• Experience our structured program firsthand

Looking for something different? Shimeru also offers a Young Kids Fundamentals class for ages 4-6, Kids Judo, and both Teen & Adult Jiu Jitsu and Teen & Adult Judo programs. View our full class schedule to find the right fit for your family. 

Final Note to Parents

There are a lot of options when it comes to  kids sports and martial arts.

What sets Shimeru apart isn’t just the facility or the number of classes—it’s the  intentional structure behind everything we do.

Your child won’t just participate here.
They’ll progress, grow, and develop skills that carry far beyond the mat.

Rules & Tips for Parents

• Always bring your child in a clean uniform and wash it after practice
• Ensure your child's nails are trimmed prior to class
• No temporary hair dyes
• No gum for kids anywhere in the gym
• Ensure your child wears shoes when off the mat, especially in the restroom
• Absolutely NO coaching in any form

Please visit the Contact page if you have any further questions. Otherwise, claim your free trial week below 
and let's get started!