Teach your child to lead with a calm mind, strong body, and confident heart.
Half of our families come to us because their child is dealing with bullies and needs self-defense skills. The other half need help with focus, discipline, and too much screen time. Our kids martial arts program in Eugene teaches children to coordinate mind and body — building the confidence, calm, and self-defense awareness they need for real life.
Eugene Dojo has been teaching kids martial arts in the Eugene, Oregon area for over 40 years. We are committed to helping children become the best versions of themselves. While a child's body grows, so does their mind — it is natural to develop the two together. Parents from Bethel, River Road, Santa Clara, and downtown Eugene tell us their children become calmer at home, more focused at school, and more confident with peers, often within the first few weeks of self-defense and mind-body training.
Children learn situational awareness, confident body language, and how to de-escalate conflict. They develop the inner strength to stand their ground calmly, without aggression.
Children are taught how to concentrate, remain calm, and challenge themselves. These habits carry directly into homework, chores, and behavior at school — a welcome change from screen time.
Training develops a child's mind and body together, not separately. Through physical activity combined with focused breathing and awareness, children learn to stay centered and in control.
As children master new skills and earn rank, they build genuine confidence rooted in hard work. They learn to push themselves, stay calm under pressure, and lead by example — the habits of a leader.
Real self-defense starts with awareness, not punching. Children learn to read situations before they escalate, use confident body language, and protect themselves — building the self-defense foundation they carry for life.
Courtesy, respect, and cooperation are fundamental lessons built into the formal beginning of each class. Students learn to work hard, follow instructions, and treat others well.
We are a certified dojo of the International Ki Society, a worldwide organization with 400+ dojos across 30 countries. Locally, we are part of the Oregon Ki Society, a non-profit with eight dojos across Oregon, serving families since 1974.
"We visited several programs to find the right martial art for our son. This dojo fit his needs perfectly with the emphasis on non-aggression and self-awareness, and it is flexible enough that he can fully participate in other activities, too. The focus is on learning and improvement. He always leaves class in a good mood! He has been attending classes for several years now, and Aikido has even helped him focus in school. I would definitely recommend this dojo."Gabe D., Eugene parent
"The Oregon Ki Society offers classes in the peaceful yet dynamic martial art of Shin Shin Toitsu Aikido — the Way of Harmony with Mind and Body Coordinated. A truly balanced approach for the modern age with roots in ancient traditions of the warrior mystic."Steve M., Eugene
No experience needed. Your child does not need to be athletic or know anything about martial arts. No long-term contracts. We will pair them with an instructor who walks them through everything. Learn more about our youth program.
Fill out the form below or call. Let us know your child's age and which day works best.
Show up in a T-shirt and pants that cover the knees. First class is completely free.
Fill out a simple form when you arrive, or download it from our website ahead of time.
If your child loves it, enroll and start building skills every Monday and Wednesday.
Commit to the journey and save. Pay for two months up front and your child's third month of training is on us.
Classes meet twice a week after school. Pick the age group that fits your child. See the full class schedule or learn more about our adult program on the main site.
Classes are taught in a traditional dojo setting. They are active, structured, and fun. Children learn through doing, not sitting. Lessons are often summarized at the end of class, showing students how the day's learning applies to life outside the dojo.
"By cultivating good habits at an early age, martial arts gives children a foundation they can rely on for a lifetime of positive growth."Oregon Ki Society
"As children grow, they learn to apply these lessons to all activities: school, play, sports, and relationships."Eugene Dojo Children's Program
Our instructors are unpaid volunteers who teach because they believe in the power of martial arts to build leaders and transform children's lives. In addition to the head instructor, adult assistants ensure each child gets the individual attention they need.
A retired physician and lifelong martial artist with decades of teaching experience. Dr. Copperman brings patience, expertise, and genuine care to every children's class.
Works alongside Copperman Sensei to create a safe, fun environment where children feel welcome to learn, make mistakes, get back up, and try again.
1071 W 7th Ave, Eugene, OR 97402
Children's class (ages 6–11): Mon & Wed, 5–6 PM
Teen class (ages 12–17): Mon & Wed, 6–7 PM
Families from the Bethel, River Road, Santa Clara, Whiteaker, and downtown Eugene neighborhoods all train here. We are just off West 7th Avenue near Van Buren Street, with easy access from West 11th, Highway 99, and the Beltline. Students from Churchill, Roosevelt, Sheldon, and North Eugene high school areas all attend. Get driving directions.
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Confidence, a calm mind, and the ability to stand up for themselves. It all starts with a single free class.
Book a Free Intro Class