The Youth Martial Arts program will serve as an introduction to the basics of self-defense technique and philosophy. Participants will build the strength, balance and coordination required to effectively punch, kick and respond to a variety of self-defense scenarios. Your child will come away with the physical tools necessary to responsibly defend themselves, and the discipline and confidence necessary to take on life’s challenges.

Participants can have the option to move into an intermediate class on Tuesdays at 5:30pm if they are advanced by Sensei Nick or by passing a qualification test.

About the Instructor: Nick Yousefzadeh holds a second degree black belt in Taekwondo and Hapkido and has been practicing for over two decades. He is a member of our Personal Training staff and holds a degree in Human Performance from Southern Connecticut State University.

Ages 4-12

Tuesdays from 4:30-5:15pm

This program is designed to teach the basics of cheer and reinforce skills you already have. Participants will learn tumbling, cheers, chants, stunting, motions, and jumps. The program is offered to youth to be active and have fun! Cheerleaders will build self-confidence, self-esteem, social skills, sportsmanship, healthy relationships, and teamwork.  All are welcome if you are just starting out or already have experience on a team.

Ages 6-12

Wednesdays 5:30-6:15

Runs for six weeks: March 12 – April 16

Geared towards homeschoolers and others with daytime availability, this 2 hour class will provide a one of a kind of experience for children ages 4-12.  Join Youth Program Director, Nick Yousefzadeh, as he leads your child through a program that offers excitement, fun and the opportunity to advance athleticism and confidence. Daily activities will include Ninja Warrior obstacle fitness, gymnasium games and beginners strength and conditioning.

Wednesdays: 12:30pm-2pm

Fit kids program fuses fitness skills and fun with games. This weekly program allows the kids to simply experience the joy of exercising. Everyone agrees that fitness and exercise are important for kids because keeping in shape offers so many health benefits all throughout their lives.

This program will incorporate the following fitness fundamentals: Strength gains, Performance, Power of Play, Coordination skills, Rhythm and Timing, Swimming, Water Games and Sports Play.

Please click “Register” for the day and time in the month you want to start classes.  This program is drafted monthly, until you cancel.  To cancel, please submit a completed Program Cancelation Form at least 7 days prior to the 1^st of the month.  If you do not follow this procedure, the Y will not be held responsible for money drafted – no refunds will be given.

This advanced class is for experienced students ages 9-12 who wish to continue their training.  This is a traditional karate class with such things like katas, self-defense and a little sparring.  This class will not only increase their knowledge in the art but in doing so increase their discipline and self-confidence through the teachings of the Griffin’s Kajukenbo system.

For those new to martial arts ages 5-8, this is an introductory class into the world of karate. This is a progressive Karate program which will increase skills week by week.  In this class students learn self-defense, self-confidence, discipline, fitness, authenticity and solid core values, through the teachings of the Griffin’s Kajukenbo system. Participants will build self esteem and confidence.

Increase your explosive power, improve your linear and lateral quickness and decrease your risk of injury with the help of the Vertimax technology.  Vertimax is a sophisticated and safe jumping platform with bands that attach to various points on the body for resistance during explosive movements.

30 minutes.  Mon & Wed at 4pm

This program is strictly for members who are already registered in Beginner or Advanced Martial Arts with the Torrington YMCA.

Students will have the ability to come in path their way to success in mastery of the tae kwon doe martial arts belt leveling system. The goal is to practice and sharpen the skills needed to develop and pass belt tests depending on the belt color they may be up testing for next. Kata’s, weapons, strikes and situations lead the way in this focus!

Thursdays from 7:30pm-8:15pm

Ask Sensei Nick for more info at [email protected]!

Begin your exploration of the art of soccer, “the beautiful game”! Designed for players of all experience and skill levels, this program will help you master the fundamentals and refine your technique in a fun and supportive environment. Led by Torrington Highschool stand-out and former WestConn team member, Naseem Thompson.

Ages 6-13

Mondays from 6:45pm-7:45pm