Kids Martial Arts in Halifax

Dragons (5-6)

Is most of your child's free time spent on their electronic devices?

Are your attempts to persuade your child to put the controller for their games console down met with resistance? Do you see a large difference between how you live your childhood and how your own children do? Did you spend more time outdoors being physically active?

At 5 or 6 years old these children should be active every day. In fact, current guidelines from the NHS suggest that children 5 years and above should be taking part in at least one hour of moderate-intensity exercise every day. The recommendations go on to suggest that the children should experience a variety of different exercises and intensities that increase bone density, build strength and develop movement skills.

Being active from a young age is important as this is the time children start to build  FUNdamental Movement Skills. Building these skills during childhood has been shown to increase participation in sport and physical activity later on in life.

Child playing computer games
Pre school activities can help shy children develop confidence

is your child confident at home but shy in public?

When children take part in a new activity, in a new place with people the children are unfamiliar with, children can find starting new activities a little challenging. Does your child sometimes say they don’t want to participate in a new activity because they are afraid of getting things wrong, even before they have even tried?

Every time a child takes part in a new activity, there is a chance they make not get everything right the first time. This can sometimes cause them to not try at all, following the logic that you can’t fail if you don’t try.  The children that think their abilities and intelligence are said to have a fixed mindset. A growth mindset is a view that people can improve their intelligence and abilities, given enough effort.

A number of studies have shown that a growth mindset can help children reduce stress, take on new challenges, build intrinsic motivation, enhance self-esteem and improve confidence.

Is your child full of energy but has difficulty focusing?

Do they often stick with challenging tasks and find it hard to work towards goals? Are they easily distracted and struggle to complete activities they are started?

In the sixties psychologist Walter Mischel performed an experiment called the marshmallow test where researchers asked children to resist eating a marshmallow with the promise of a second if they managed it.

Years later Mischel followed up on his original study and that found the children that were able to delay gratification longer developed a higher sense of self-worth, lower levels of obesity, lower levels of drug and alcohol abuse, chased goals more effectively, achieved higher levels of education and also enjoyed better quality relationships.

Self control - Marshmallow Test
Children with friends

Are you looking to expand your childs circle of friends?

Every parents wants thier children to be able to make new friends easily. This enables their children to be dropped into different environments and make new friends easily. Are you also looking for an activity that also have a positive peer group? 

As the saying goes ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together’.  Being able to understand people, show empathy, respect other children’s personal space and understand how to work with a partner or as part of a group is skills that can be learnt. 

Social interaction is not only important for confidence building but is also one of the reasons children love physical activities. Children start activities for lots of different reasons but often the main reason they continue to participate is the friendships they build.

looking for a martial arts club where development is the priority?

Have you looked at activities for your child that often require you to pay for a term or buy expensive equipment before your child even get’s started? 

All martial arts clubs need to turn a profit (including not for profit clubs). This allows them to pay their bills and improve their facilities. While parents understand this, what they don’t like is paying a fortune for unqualified coaches delivering unorganised programmes.

The Warrior Factory clubs are run as ‘not for profit’ Community Interest Companies. That said, we pride ourselves on providing a professional service. This enables us to concentrate on the students rather than maximing out our income.

Broken piggy bank
Taekwondo for kids in Leeds

Development for life

Age specific martial arts

Our children’s martial arts programme has been up and running since 2008. Based on the MAPLE framework (Martial Arts Physical Literacy Engine), the system is designed to deliver fun sessions that are psychologically, physically and socially age-appropriate for your son or daughter.

After leaving a career as a Network Engineer in 2008 to focus on teaching martial arts full time. After researching new ways to improve his coaching skills, Phill noticed that most martial arts coaches delivered their children’s classes the same way as they taught classes for adults. He knew that the needs of the children were very different to that of the adults but he didn’t know where to look for better methods.

At the time the only training courses he could find were gym based. This led to him to study for the Personal Trainer exam, before later going on to complete a BSc and MSc in sports coaching at Leeds Becket University. The MAPLE system is the result of over £40,000 spent on education and 10 years of research and development.

In most martial arts, all students need to do to become instructors is pass a black belt exam testing their ability to perform the martial art rather than teach it. Although the martial arts field has very little regulation, the Warrior Factory venues have their own unique way of operating.

Not only are our venues built on a theory-based children’s programme (MAPLE), but many of our coaches have studied to degree level in sports coaching or early year’s development. Pairing a programme based on theory and research with experienced and qualified coaches helps the centres to provide safe, fun and age-appropriate classes for our members. 

What happens in our............

kids martial arts classes

Martial Arts techniques

Our kids martial arts classes teach strikes, kicks, blocks and stances along with various combinations from our Taekwondo syllabus.

Basic Movements

FUNdamental Movement Skills games are integrated into our kids martial arts classes to build the basic movements needed for all sport & physical activity.

Positive Psychological Characteristics

Our Dragons programme includes a key skills programme to help the students develop positive psychological characteristics 

Social Skills

This is the perfect age for the children to develop the social and leadership skills they need to work in pairs or groups.

Physical Fitness

Fitness for this age focuses on the 8 main MAPLE physical skills;  locomotion, strength, stabilisation, coordination, flexibility, speed, agility and power.

Cognitive Development

The aim of this programme is to help the students understand the benefits of training and how it can improve their long term outcomes.

What do our customers think?

Warrior Factory Martial Arts Academy Halifax
4.9
Based on 52 reviews
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Rik Smith
Rik Smith
12:12 01 Aug 24
I started in January with my eldest. 3 months later my youngest joined as soon as he turned 6. Everyone is friendly and the instructors are very knowledgeable and patient with the younger members. All in all, really glad we took up Taekwondo.
Craig Hayes
Craig Hayes
16:16 19 Jun 24
My son has flourished here, becoming more disciplined and respectful, as well as focused.
I cannot praise the team enough for what they do here.
Mandeep Kaur Khela
Mandeep Kaur Khela
12:40 21 Apr 24
My daughter was 3 when she started in the Dragons version and will be aiming for her black belt next! 🥋 I have seen her grow in so many ways as a result of the personalised, professional attention to each student. My youngest daughter has progressed through to the 3rd belt and now I’ve joined them on that journey! Coming out of my comfort zone was hard at first but the classes are geared towards all levels and having family classes means we can train together 💗.

We have gone through some challenging personal circumstances and the sensitivity and compassion shown by the team has been very much appreciated 🙏🏽. The sense of achievement spurs you on and for that time in the class you become immersed in the experience of doing something for yourself and improving your mental and physical health which is critical. 💪🏽🧠❤️I highly encourage you trying this out and you won’t be disappointed bringing that form of discipline and learning into your life. ☺️
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Rachel Hill
Rachel Hill
20:51 20 Feb 24
My son started at Warrior Factory 18 months ago, he loves attending every session. He has made lots of new friends including staff, built his confidence, skills and discipline.

I highly recommend to anyone who comes accross this review/ website to try for yourself or your children. One of the best parts is, you get a free class or two, to see how you settle in.

All staff are very polite, professional highly skilled and very interactive with all ages. The rooms are always filled with happiness, you are always very welcomed, staff always take a great interest in you and your child.

Whenever I’ve had to reschedule for whatever reason, a simple email and staff have accommodated for my son.

10 STAR ALL ROUND!!!!
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Lucia Bowes
Lucia Bowes
18:18 19 Feb 24
My 2 girls started in July 2023, they absolutely love coming to Taekwondo. The eldest has gained so much confidence. The instructors are brilliant, very knowledgable and the kids love them. There is a real friendly family feel to the club, you are always greeted with a friendly smile and a warm welcome. I would highly recommend the Warrior Factory to any parents wanted their child to learn a martial art, skills, discipline and gain self confidence that will stand them in good stead for life. They offer 2 free taster sessions so you have nothing to lose and all ages are welcome.read more
Carol Shackleton
Carol Shackleton
16:17 18 Jan 24
I love warrior factory. my 2 grandsons love it . We have been coming here almost a year now . Ronan does Teakwondo twice a week and loves it . The staff , trainers are all helpful supportive easy to talk too . It a good place to learn and make friends get all the extra energy out their systems xxread more
Jim Tkd
Jim Tkd
17:35 10 Jan 24
I love Warrior Factory and have been going for quite a few years now. I say its one of the best things I’ve done. The people both students and instructors are great. It’s very welcoming, supportive, family friendly and has fun social events. It can be challenging but it’s worth it so I encourage anyone of any ability to have a go.read more
Jade Rachel Beesley
Jade Rachel Beesley
15:03 10 Jan 24
My 2 boys started the classes 6 months ago, It’s really helped with their confidence & they love it!

The lessons are always fun but in structured way to learn new skills.

The instructions are amazing and make sure the boys come out having a great time.

I would highly recommend the classes.
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Anthony Debnam
Anthony Debnam
14:18 10 Jan 24
My son started with the dragons when he was 6 and has worked his way all up to back belt. He inspired me to join him and I’ve never looked back. The staff and trainers are professional, supportive and most of all fun! Everyone is welcome regardless of age or ability and we love it!read more
Jennifer Lukic
Jennifer Lukic
20:41 30 Aug 23
My boys absolutely love coming to Warrior Dragons, they are always met with a warm welcome and everything is so well organised. My eldest is usually shy and takes a while to warm to new places but that has never been a problem at warrior dragons which is a true testament to all the staff 😊 highly recommend for your little ones!read more
Kim Nast
Kim Nast
16:39 29 Aug 23
My 3 boys attend the taekwondo classes, beginner and intermediate levels. It’s really helped with their confidence, listening and concentration. The lessons have structure, discipline and fun all together. It’s great exercise too and the boys really enjoy coming. I would highly recommend the classes.read more
Zain G Din
Zain G Din
00:06 25 Jul 23
RESPONSIBILITY
Leaders Must Own Everything In Their World. There Is No One Else To Blame.

Children visiting your centre has caused me nearly £5k of criminal damage Saturday 22june the parents said they would take responsibility Donna & Jordan but now failing too. Teach the kids how to treat others property with respect. I also reported to the receptionist at the centre who failed to get me a call back from the owner.read more
Leah Wagg
Leah Wagg
15:15 27 Apr 23
Both my boys are Dragons at Halifax. They love the classes and are excited to attend every week. The classes are fun, affordable, great excercise and the coaches have such patience and enthusiasm. My littlest’s listening and behaviour has improved so much since he started and they can channel their rough and tumble energy into safe drills at home with the practice pad. It’s such a welcoming, family friendly and generous sporting facility with charity events, parties and holiday clubs throughout the year too.read more
Monika Niemiec
Monika Niemiec
09:06 16 Sep 22
We’ve been with Warrior Factory Halifax for years and I can’t recommend the guys over there enough!! They offer a wide range of physical activity based on Martial Arts, lessons have a great structure and discipline but maintain fun. The sessions help to build a strength, confidence, concentration and listening skills. The staff is excellent and passionate about their work and they will tailor any exercise to everyone’s ability to achieve an amazing progress. The atmosphere here is fantastic and family friendly. I can highly recommend this place and have a go with one of the tester sessions!read more
Ben Devereux
Ben Devereux
16:12 15 Jun 22
Our son and daughter have been going to classes at the Warrior Factory since they were 3 years old and both absolutely love it. I’ve even started taking classes myself recently – better late than never! Can’t recommend the guys there enough.
Sarah Jones
Sarah Jones
08:29 23 Apr 22
The dragons class has been great for our 4 year old. He’s been going for 6 months and it’s helped develop his concentration and listening skills and he really enjoys the fun games and physical activities. Staff are great in keeping it interesting and accessible for all the girls and boys who take part.read more
Sophie Sutton
Sophie Sutton
19:50 12 Apr 22
My son really enjoys his classes at Warrior Factory and I think he’s been well supported in moving up through belts. Whenever I have questions or need help with something the team are quick to answer and I’d 100% recommend Warrior Factory to anyone because it’s such a friendly environment.read more
Vikkie Pawson
Vikkie Pawson
20:52 06 Apr 22
My little boy started in dragons a few years ago. He started off very shy and with little self confidence. Jess and the entire team have worked miracles, they have gone above and beyond to make him feel safe and secure, it took lots of time for him to settle in but he was always met with a smiling face and lots of patience! The difference in him now is amazing you wouldn’t believe he’s the same little boy. He now runs in through the door and bursts into conversation with anyone who will listen, he’s learnt that it’s ok to make mistakes and that you just try again, he is now so much more confident in himself and really enjoys going each week.
Honestly can’t reccomend enough!
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Claire Logan
Claire Logan
15:42 30 Mar 22
My son George has been attending Warrior Factory for four years and he absolutely loves it. The staff are friendly, encouraging and knowledgeable. I’ve seen his confidence improve loads since joining. Can’t recommend enough to anyone thinking of sending their children 🙂read more
Christy Marie Midgley
Christy Marie Midgley
13:49 30 Mar 22
Our son has been going here for over a year now. The team are fantastic with him. Not only has he gone from strength to strength with his martial arts it’s also boosted his confidence and helped with his focus and discipline.
Couldn’t ask for more!read more
Katie Louise Marsh
Katie Louise Marsh
20:19 25 Jan 22
Two of my children attend Warrior Factory Halifax. They both enjoy their specific lessons, with one being a beginner having joined recently and one at an intermediate level who has been a member for the past couple of years. Both find each session engaging and fun. They look forward to each session, with each lesson having a fantastic structure and discipline but maintaining fun They have kind and passionate coaches who work brilliantly with each child, they have instilled great confidence, resilience and strength in my children. I would highly recommend sending your child to one of the taster sessions to find out if it is for them.read more
Helen Cousen
Helen Cousen
14:37 19 Jan 22
As members for over 5 years, we would highly recommend Warrior Factory to anyone looking for martial arts training. Coaches are always encouraging and provide a fund and friendly training environment.

The training rooms are custom-made for martial arts and maintained by the WF team so no mucky sweaty sports hall floor to use after a 5-a-side match.

The team love what they do and it shows in the quality tuition in class.
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Helen Jeff
Helen Jeff
17:59 30 Nov 21
Our 6 year old has been going here a few years and really enjoys it. Fitness through fun and games in a structured way, building confidence and skills in a well equipped venue and with friendly expert instructors. Would definitely recommend to other families.read more
Rachel Philippa Strafford
Rachel Philippa Strafford
22:41 16 Nov 21
‘Excellent staff and family friendly. Our eldest has been going 9 years now – we signed her up to build her confidence and she’s loved every minute of it. So much so her younger sister (and now dad) have joined up!’
Since this review I have also joined I’m not going to lie I was terrified before my 1st session but had no reason to be! The staff were incredibly welcoming and I have not looked back. I’m not the fittest person or the most flexible but that doesn’t matter. Techniques are adapted where needed and I have great fun in each session. 2 years on and I wish I’d joined earlier!read more
Brian Roberts
Brian Roberts
16:45 10 May 18
David Watters
David Watters
11:41 07 Oct 17
Lucy Armitage
Lucy Armitage
18:06 24 Jul 17
Amazing teaching my son has gained confidence and coordination. The staff are kind and friendly.
Richard Ingram
Richard Ingram
20:20 03 Jul 17
Deb Duke
Deb Duke
19:56 03 Jul 17
Parminder Singh Aujla
Parminder Singh Aujla
16:41 22 Feb 17
Amy Lg Pl
Amy Lg Pl
19:11 10 Dec 16
Claire Cantrill
Claire Cantrill
16:31 06 Oct 16
My daughter has been coming a few weeks now and really loves it! She’s a little clingy in other classes she goes to but really gets stuck in here, the teachers are great ��
Craig Anthony
Craig Anthony
07:40 03 Aug 16
Christian Bloom
Christian Bloom
14:18 03 Jul 16
Great people and focused training, they also have some great competition fighters as well for people wanting to go to the next level.
Seema Howard
Seema Howard
19:31 26 Jun 16
Julie M Bauer
Julie M Bauer
18:27 23 May 16
My children love it and have been attending for over 2.5 years. The teachers are fantastic with everyone and are very polite and friendly. Would recommend this club to any one.
Stuart Wider
Stuart Wider
16:28 15 Mar 16
Family friendly club. Great Instructors. It’s lovely that the whole family can be together in the same class for a very reasonable price.

Quite a relaxed feel to the place when compared with other Martial Arts clubs that I have attended (at least in the class I attend), so if anyone is at all intimidated by attending a martial arts class then don’t be, Warrior Factory is a great place to be for you. Mums and Dads… this is not just for the kids… you can get into it too at the same time 🙂

The only thing I think that would improve the in-class experience is for the Instructors to just be a wee bit more assertive with class etiquette when some of the more exuberant class members are a bit cheeky, mess about a bit or talk over the instructor. My family and I really want to be able to hear every valuable bit of information that the instructors tells us, and concentrate on every technique as its all so good and interesting 🙂

Keep up the good work and thanks guys!
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Sasha Struthers
Sasha Struthers
20:20 05 Oct 15
First started with my little boy coming to the dragons class and now the whole family love to come! It been lovely to see my once shy little lad grow into a confident boy who’s not afraid to show off his new moves to the entire school!
Daniel Smith
Daniel Smith
22:40 12 Aug 15
Bradlee Paul
Bradlee Paul
20:23 17 Mar 15
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Lil Dragon jumping for the belt she is being awarded belt at the Halifax Warrior Factory