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Martial Arts Programs

Whether you're new to martial arts and looking to learn a new skill or continue your training here at the University of Guelph, our talented instructors will demonstrate the skills for each in a safe and inclusive manner. 

Winter Registration opens on Monday, November 24th at 6:30am.

Summer Registration opens on Monday, February 2nd at 6:30am. Program details are subject to changes prior to registration opening. 

Below Activities require registration & fees apply. Recreation Membership is not a pre-requisite to enroll in Certification courses.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art focusing on grappling techniques, including throws, wrestling takedowns, joint locks, choke holds, and other self-defense techniques. This discipline emphasizes technique and leverage over strength making it an effective means of self-defense for smaller individuals fending off larger aggressors. Classes consist of a warm-up, technical lessons, and sparring, in roughly equal amounts. No previous martial arts or athletic experience is required; beginners are welcome!

Activity Details

36784 - January 13, 2026 to March 26, 2026

38387 - May 13, 2026 to July 29, 2026

Karate

Karate originated in Japan and is an unarmed martial-arts discipline employing kicking, striking & defensive blocking with arms & legs. Emphasis is on concentrating as much of the body's power as possible at the point & instant of impact. Karate is known for emphasizing the mental aspects of the discipline as well as values like courtesy & respect. This class will focus on the traditional karate styles under the supervision of experienced Goju-Ryu & Shotokan instructors. It is a great place to improve yourself & meet amazing friends.

Activity Details

36785 - January 12, 2026 to March 25, 2026

38388 - May 11, 2026 to July 27, 2026

Muay Thai

Thailand's national sport of Muay Thai is a full contact ring sport in which competitors use fists, feet, elbows & knees to strike their opponents. Training is conducted in a safe & inclusive manner, providing challenges for those at all levels ranging from beginner to intermediate to advanced levels. Participants should be in good physical condition & must have their own hand wraps & mouth guard. No previous martial arts experience is required. 20 classes.

Activity Details

36786 - January 12, 2026 to March 25, 2026

38389 - May 11, 2026 to July 27, 2026

Self-Defense Class

Gain knowledge of how to stay safe with emphasis on the practice of useful skills through which greater confidence is also acquired. While some discussion takes place, it is a very practical program. The basic philosophy of this program is to evade & escape, strike with arms & hands, pinch, head butt, kick to lower legs, as well as fight from the ground and safely fall & roll. * Registration ends 1 week prior to start date.

Activity Details

Currently not offered

Tae Kwon Do

Tae Kwon Do (also known as Taekwondo) is the art of self defense that originated in Korea. It is recognized as one of the oldest forms of martial arts in the world, reaching back over 2,000 years. The name was selected for its appropriate description of the art: Tae (foot), Kwon (hand), Do (art). This course is geared towards all skill levels.

Activity Details

36788 - January 13, 2026 to March 26, 2026

Self Defense

Gain knowledge of how to stay safe with emphasis on the practice of useful skills to gain confidence. While some discussion takes place, it is a very practical program. The basic philosophy of this program is to evade & escape, strike with arms & hands, pinch, head butt, kick to lower legs, as well as fight from the ground and safely fall & roll.

Self Defense

Gain knowledge of how to stay safe with emphasis on the practice of useful skills to gain confidence. While some discussion takes place, it is a very practical program. The basic philosophy of this program is to evade & escape, strike with arms & hands, pinch, head butt, kick to lower legs, as well as fight from the ground and safely fall & roll.

Tae Kwon Do

Tae Kwon Do (also known as Taekwondo) is the art of self defense that originated in Korea. It is recognized as one of the oldest forms of martial arts in the world, reaching back over 2,000 years. The name was selected for its appropriate description of the art: Tae (foot), Kwon (hand), Do (art).

Self Defense
Tae Kwon Do
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