Wrestling is practised in many forms, from the traditional Olympic styles of Greco-Roman and freestyle to the popular form of pro-wrestling that we see in WWE. There are also broader forms of wrestling that include jiu-jitsu, judo and sambo. 

Many wrestling clubs for children focus not on one particular style but teach a blend of grapples, holds and moves from a range of wrestling styles and broader martial arts. This tends to be the case for children from the age of 5 - 15, whereas classes that specialise in particular styles take children from around the age of 15. 

London Fight Factory

Located on Old Street, this club offers classes covering a broad selection of martial arts which includes wrestling and jiu-jitsu. Classes are mixed, with a range of ages and abilities. The instructors are very supportive and make sure that participants are always equally matched with those of similar size and ability. A typical wrestling session will include fitness conditioning, technique practice, partner work and - for the more experienced - sparring. The freestyle wrestling classes run on Saturday and Friday with open sessions (where participants can spar and practice freely with others) running throughout the week. You can pay per class for £15 each session or choose 2 classes a week for a monthly fee of £65.

Legion Grappling Academy

This welcoming school teaches a mix of freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling styles. Classes are held every weekday evening in Walthamstow, with separate sessions held for children aged 7 - 14 and for 14+. You can access 8 classes for £50 per month or an unlimited amount for £60. The monthly fee also includes full access to the club’s weight training area (for older children). Many coaches have worked with or competed in team GB and are happy to accept new students of any age and ability.

Stronger Kids (Stronger Martial Arts)

Stronger Kids is part of the wider Stronger Martial Arts club in South Wimbledon. It’s a freestyle wrestling club for children aged 5 years and upwards. As one of the few clubs specialising in freestyle for young children, it’s a great place to learn the pure wrestling techniques of takedowns, clinches and grabs. The coaches make it engaging for children, with fun games and activities. The freestyle wrestling class is every Thursday between 5 and 6pm with classes in jiu-jitsu and kickboxing also held throughout the week.

Lewisham Wrestling Club

This wrestling club was set up to cater for disadvantaged children in the local area. The organisation merged with the Youth Association and now runs various activities, but it keeps freestyle wrestling as a core part of what it offers. Classes are run in Lewisham United Reform Church every Wednesday from 5:30 - 8:00pm for children from the age of 10 onwards.

Shinbudo London Grappling Club

This martial arts club, located in the St John’s Wood area, teaches a mix of styles including jiu-jitsu, judo and, of course, freestyle wrestling. The club is affiliated to many major associations, including the British Wrestling Association. The experienced coaches provide a safe and stimulating environment for children to learn a range of styles. Wrestling classes take place every Monday, with classes for 5 - 12-year-olds and 13+ year olds, respectively. More classes in different styles are held later in the week, with open mat sessions on Sundays. Prices start from £10 per session.

Find more activities for children in London on Hoop.

Photo by Alexa Popovich