At Silverback, we help kids grow into confident, capable young leaders on and off the mats. Our multi-discipline, age-based curriculum in Karate, Muay Thai, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu teaches the right skills at the right time, building safety awareness, strong character, and lifelong fitness.
Every student. Every goal. Every belt. We're here every step of the way.
Welcome to Silverback Kids Martial Arts, the only Calgary martial arts academy that is just for kids! At Silverback, we help kids grow into confident, capable young leaders on and off the mats. Our multi-discipline, age-based curriculum teaches the right skills at the right time, building safety awareness, strong character, and lifelong fitness. Through structured training levels, students develop confidence, focus, discipline, coordination, and the physical, mental, and social skills they need to thrive today and succeed tomorrow.
Certified Instructors
Led by instructors like Paul, Eric, Sensei Arek Thankachen, and Ms Kim, our team has a combined teaching experience of over 50 years safeguarding the integrity, structure, and evolution of our curriculum. All coaches have completed a vulnerable sector check and are First Aid & CPR certified — parents consistently tell us how patient, encouraging, and kind our coaches are with even the shyest first-timers.
We don't just teach Karate, Muay Thai & Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu — we build better people.
Our certified instructors are hands-on and genuinely invested in every student's growth — in technique and in character. Our results speak for themselves.
From young kids to adults, complete beginners to returning martial artists — everyone feels at home at Silverback Kids Martial Arts. This is a family, not just a gym.
Parents and students report improvements in focus, confidence, and discipline within the first 30–60 days. Our structured curriculum ensures every student progresses at every level.
Age-based programs for every kid — from Tiny Tots Troop (ages 3–4) to Teen Troop (ages 13–17), all built on our T.R.O.O.P. values: Teamwork, Respect, Ownership, Overcoming Obstacles & Perseverance.
A group of gorillas is called a troop.
A parent-assisted introduction to martial arts focused on movement, balance, coordination, listening skills and confidence. Children learn through structured games, obstacle courses and partner activities in a fun, supportive environment.
A playful introduction to Goju-Ryu Karate and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Students develop coordination, focus, personal safety awareness, confidence and social skills through age-appropriate instruction and games.
A more structured program teaching Karate and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fundamentals. Students build discipline, focus, confidence and teamwork while learning striking, basic grappling, self-defence and controlled partner work.
A progressive program combining Goju-Ryu Karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai. Students develop stronger technical skills, discipline, accountability and leadership while working toward belts and other training milestones.
Higher-energy training in Karate, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai designed specifically for teenagers. The program develops practical martial arts ability, fitness, confidence, resilience, leadership and positive friendships.
Three easy steps to your first class — no experience required.
Click the button below or call us at 587-971-9437 to reserve your free intro session at a time that works for you.
Arrive in comfortable workout clothes. We'll give you a tour, introduce you to the team, and guide you through your first class.
If you love it — and you will — we'll find the perfect program and membership that fits your goals, schedule, and budget.
No commitment. No experience needed. Just show up.
Real reviews from real families on Google
"From the very first class, Paul and Eric the instructors went above and beyond to make my son feel welcome. He's naturally very shy, but they were so patient, encouraging, and kind that he quickly started to feel included and comfortable. Watching his confidence grow was incredible. If you're looking for a place where your child will be encouraged, respected, and helped to grow both on and off the mat, I can't recommend this studio enough."
via Google
"We love this martial arts school! Our kids have been attending with Sensei Arek Thankachen for 2.5+ years. The instruction is amazing (multiple instructors on the Canadian national team!) and the kids love it. Not only does it provide our kids with practical martial arts training, it nurtures and enhances many essential life skills. Sensei Arek and Ms Kim are fantastic with the kids; I highly recommend!"
via Google
"Sensei Arek is an amazing instructor and leader! My daughter has been training with him for three years now, and the difference has been incredible. She was very shy when she first started, but over the years she has built strong core strength, confidence, and has grown so much physically, technically and mentally. Thank you, Sensei Arek and all of the wonderful staff, for your dedication, encouragement, and support."
via Google
"We've had a great experience for the past 2.5 years at this studio! What stands out to our family is the amazing patience and encouragement that comes from the instructors. They have made our kids feel welcome, built community, grown their confidence and progressed their skills all while having a lot of fun! Big thank you to Sensei Arek and Ms. Kim!!!"
via Google
"Silverback Kids Martial Arts is an incredibly valuable activity. Our 3 young kids have done this for a few years now and we couldn't be more impressed with the progress they've made, the community they have created, and the discipline and skills they have developed. I really can't say enough about Sensei Arek, Ms Kim, and the rest of the team at Silverbacks."
via Google
"Coach Arek has been absolutely incredible with our kids. He has such a great balance of being positive, encouraging, and disciplined, and the kids truly respect and look up to him. You can tell he genuinely cares about helping every student grow in confidence and skill. Our children have learned so much from him, both in martial arts and in life skills like focus and respect."
via Google
"If you want your kids in a sport, Silverback Kids Martial Arts is the way to go!! Sensei Arek is the best! He is an amazing teacher. Not only will your kids learn but they'll get to have fun and enjoy as well as drain their energy if needed! Number 1 martial arts studio out there!!"
via Google
"Silverback Kids Martial Arts has been an amazing experience for our family. The instructors are patient and encouraging. They focus not only on martial arts skills but also on building confidence, discipline, and respect. The environment is welcoming, positive, and well-structured, making it easy for kids to stay engaged and have fun."
via Google
Take the first step toward the best version of yourself. Book your free trial or get our full pricing and schedule sent directly to you.
Silverback Kids Martial Arts