Short answer: One Way Martial Arts is about 2.5 to 3.5 miles from Kingstowne, almost all of it one straight drive up South Van Dorn Street, and Kids BJJ runs in four age groups from 2 to 14.
The drive from Kingstowne
From Kingstowne Village Parkway, turn onto South Van Dorn Street and stay on it heading north, across the Beltway, until you reach Eisenhower Avenue. The academy is at 5416 Eisenhower Ave, Alexandria, VA 22304.
Outside rush hour that takes roughly 10 to 15 minutes. On a weekday at 5 PM, give yourself more. Parking is free and on site, so you are not circling the block with a 4-year-old in the back seat.
If your family uses Metro, the academy is a short walk from the Van Dorn Street station on the Blue Line.
Which age group fits your child
Kids BJJ at One Way is split by age, so each class is taught at your child's level.
- Tumblers, ages 2–3: learning to move, listen and take turns through games built on Jiu-Jitsu positions.
- Tots, ages 4–6: basic positions, listening skills and mat safety.
- Kids, ages 7–10: technique, drilling and supervised live rounds.
- Teens, ages 11–14: more advanced technique and sparring, with a competition path for those who want it.
Not sure where your child fits? Tell us their age when you book, and we will help you pick the right class.
Class times that work after school
Kids BJJ runs 15 classes a week. Here are the weekday afternoon and Saturday classes:
- Tumblers: Monday and Wednesday at 4:30 PM, Saturday at 9:30 AM.
- Tots: Monday and Wednesday at 5:00 PM.
- Kids 7–10: Monday and Wednesday at 6:00 PM, Tuesday and Thursday at 5:00 PM.
- Teens: Tuesday and Thursday at 6:00 PM.
- Kids and Teens No-Gi, ages 4–14: Saturday at 10:00 AM.
Times can change, so check the class schedule before you drive over.
Who coaches your child
Kids classes are coached by Giovanna Amaral, IBJJF Pan American Champion, and Malachi Edmond, IBJJF European Champion and World Silver Medalist. Giovanna is on the mat Monday through Saturday and leads small-group girls' classes, with extra attention for every young female athlete.
The academy itself is led by 4x IBJJF World Champion Mahamed Aly and black belt Patrick Almeida. You can read about each coach on the team page.
Parents are welcome to watch, which helps a lot with a 2- or 3-year-old who wants to see you from the mat.
What the first class looks like
Start with a free first class. Come in athletic clothes, and we lend you the gear you need. Arrive about 10 minutes early so your child can see the room before class starts.
The class has a warm-up, a simple technique, partner drills and a cool-down. A coach introduces your child to the group and checks on them through the session.
If your child wants to come back, the next step is the 4-Week Jumpstart, which includes your child's Gi and belt. More detail on the Kids BJJ page.
Why BJJ suits young kids
BJJ is grappling, not striking. Your child learns to hold a position, get out from under someone and stay calm when things feel hard. Leverage matters more than size, so a small child can still win a position against a bigger partner.
Self-defense is not a separate class. It is built into every BJJ class: keeping distance, staying calm and getting back up. If you are still deciding when to start, our guide on what age kids can start Jiu-Jitsu goes age by age.
Frequently asked questions
How far is One Way Martial Arts from Kingstowne?
About 2.5 to 3.5 miles, almost all of it on South Van Dorn Street. Outside rush hour it is roughly a 10 to 15 minute drive, and parking is free and on site.
What is the youngest age for Kids BJJ?
Two. Tumblers is for ages 2–3, Tots for 4–6, Kids for 7–10 and Teens for 11–14.
Does my child need a uniform for the first class?
No. Come in athletic clothes, and we lend you the gear you need. The 4-Week Jumpstart includes your child's Gi and belt.
Can I watch my child's class?
Yes. Parents are welcome to watch every kids class.
Is there anything for girls?
All kids classes are co-ed. Coach Giovanna Amaral, IBJJF Pan American Champion, also leads small-group girls' classes with extra attention for young female athletes.
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