My 8-year-old daughter starting training Jiu Jitsu at Kato Jiu Jitsu in May of 2018. She quickly took a liking to it and always looks forward for her next chance to train. She is involved in many other activities to include Basketball, Softball and Dance, but Jiu Jitsu is by far the activity she looks forward to the most. Unlike her other pursuits where my wife and I have to wrangle my daughter’s gear together to get her out the door, with Jiu Jitsu she will eagerly wait for me in our drive way with her bag so when I come home from work she can get to class on time. I know she has fun with Jiu Jitsu but as a parent I have noticed that besides providing her with recreation it has also reinforced her value of discipline and respect for others. The welcoming setting at the gym allows her to stay around after the kids’ class and play with her classmates or watch while I train in the adult classes. As a father I am grateful that I can share an activity with my daughter that helps her grow mentally, participate in healthy competition and learn to defend herself.
-Michael and Carly
At Kato Jiu-jitsu, our children are learning self defense and creating strong friendships. We've seen their confidence improve as well as their discipline and respect. The instructors are very knowledgeable, patient, and understanding. They teach in a way so the kids understand everything while also making it fun.
-Mike and Laurie
Kato Jiu Jitsu has been a great experience for my family. My 12 year old son and 9 year old daughter have been members since October 2018. My daughter has always had a confidence in herself but my son has always been a bit shy and reserved. Since joining Kato Jiu Jitsu I have seen a boost of confidence in him. I see it in everyday things like the way he carries himself. I see it in the way he hesitates less when asked questions from others. I see it in the way he engages with the other adults and children at Kato Jiu Jitsu. He truly found a place and people he has developed a kinship with and I am so excited to be able to watch this growth in him. I only wish I had been able to do this earlier but the price of martial arts in the Mankato area was always out of my budget. This is another great thing about Kato Jiu Jitsu. They made this affordable for me to not only put one child in but two as well as start adult classes myself!
-Emily
