Teen Samurai: Martial Arts for Ages 13+
Serious training for teenagers in Hickory, NC. Practical self-defense, weapons fundamentals, physical conditioning and the mental toughness to stay calm under pressure — twice a week with an 8th Dan.
Teen Samurai is AikiDojo of Hickory’s martial arts program for ages 13 and up. It meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:00 to 8:30 PM and covers practical Aikido and Aiki Budo self-defense, introductory weapons (bokken and jo), conditioning, and the discipline and emotional control teenagers need. Teens may also attend adult classes as they mature.
What Teens Train in Teen Samurai
Practical Self-Defense
Escapes, throws, joint locks and pins against realistic attacks — grabs, tackles, punches — at full speed with control.
Weapons Fundamentals
Introduction to the bokken (sword) and jo (staff): the Samurai roots of the art, and a serious upgrade in focus.
Conditioning
Ninety-minute classes build strength, flexibility and endurance without the joint damage of high-impact sports.
Emotional Control
Learning to stay calm while someone is trying to throw you is the single most transferable skill a teenager can learn.
Leadership
Senior teens help lead warm-ups and assist with younger students — real responsibility, earned.
Rank Toward Black Belt
Teen Samurai test through the kyu grades on the same curriculum as adults, on the path to shodan.
Teen Samurai Schedule in Hickory, NC
All classes at 2364 Springs Rd NE, Hickory, NC 28601. Membership includes every Teen Samurai class on the schedule.
| Day | Time | Class | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesday | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM | Teen Samurai (Ages 13+)Teen Samurai | Book free trial → |
| Thursday | 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM | Teen Samurai (Ages 13+)Teen Samurai | Book free trial → |
Why Teenagers Need a Dojo More Than Ever
Thirteen to eighteen is when a young person decides what kind of adult they’re going to be. A traditional dojo gives teens something that is increasingly rare: a place where effort is rewarded honestly, where phones are off, where adults expect a lot of them and back them up. Teens who came up through Young Warriors keep growing here; teens who are brand-new find a class that takes them seriously from day one.
Aikido is also the right art for this age. Teens are strong enough to hurt each other in a striking sport and impulsive enough to try. Aikido channels that energy into control — and the confidence a teenager gets from knowing they can handle a real situation without throwing a punch is a confidence that doesn’t need to be tested at school.
Teen Samurai Questions, Answered
Can a teenager start martial arts with no experience?
Absolutely. Many Teen Samurai start at 13, 15 or 17 with zero background. Kaicho pairs new teens with senior students for the first weeks.
Can teens attend adult classes?
Yes, as they mature and with Kaicho’s approval. Many 16- and 17-year-olds train in Adult Aikido and Saturday open mat as well.
Is Teen Samurai good for a teen with anxiety or anger issues?
It is one of the best things you can do for them. The structure, physical outlet and emphasis on staying calm under pressure address both directly.
Do teens learn weapons?
Fundamentals of the bokken and jo are introduced in Teen Samurai. Full weapons training happens in the Advanced Weapons Class for ranked students.
Is there a free trial for teens?
Yes — a free week of Teen Samurai. No contract, no uniform required.
From Hickory Families
“Our 14 and 9 year old boys' first day at Aikido was amazing! The instructor is fantastic with the kids and very knowledgeable, and everyone there is so welcoming and helpful.”
“Miss Keely and Mr. Pete have always been incredible and loving with my son when his anxiety got the best of him.”
More Ways to Train at AikiDojo of Hickory
Lil Samurai
A 30-minute preschool martial arts class that builds focus, balance, listening skills and confidence through Aikido games and drills.
Explore Lil SamuraiBeginner Kids
The on-ramp for new kids: falling safely, basic footwork, dojo etiquette and the first Aikido techniques in a small, patient class.
Explore Beginner KidsYoung Warriors
Our flagship kids program: real Aikido self-defense, character training and bully-proof confidence, four days a week.
Explore Young WarriorsYour Free Week of Teen Samurai Starts When You Say So.
No contract, no uniform, no experience required. Pick a class time, walk in, and train with us for seven days on the house. Families from Hickory, Conover, Newton and across the Catawba Valley start exactly this way.
Hickory, NC
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