What is the difference between parkour, ninja classes and martial arts?
Urban Warriors · Tukwila, Washington · The program
Parkour centres on navigating obstacles; martial arts centres on a particular fighting or movement tradition; “ninja classes” can describe different obstacle-based programs. Urban Warriors in Tukwila brings martial arts, parkour and gymnastics influences into its own coached program, with an emphasis on adaptation, challenges and teamwork.
Part of the Urban Warriors Parent FAQ.
Compare the class, not just the label
| Option | What to examine when choosing |
|---|---|
| Parkour | How obstacle movement, technique and progression are taught |
| Martial arts | The discipline, curriculum and training goals of that school |
| Ninja program | The gym's actual mix of obstacles, skills and group activities |
| Urban Warriors | Movement challenges, adaptation, teamwork and encouragement |
What Urban Warriors adds
In the kids program, a full warm-up leads into challenges, courses and games. Physical skills such as balance, climbing and jumping sit alongside communication and helping teammates. The program encourages students to work out an approach, make adjustments and recognise the people around them.
Choose around your child's interests
If your child wants to study a particular martial art, ask prospective schools about that curriculum. If they are drawn to varied movement challenges and team activities, experiencing Urban Warriors can help you compare. Programs vary, so avoid assuming that every martial arts school or parkour class has the same teaching style.
A free demo introduces the gym; the $35 trial gives a full one-hour class experience. Use the existing comparison guide for a broader set of questions to consider.
Further reading: Program comparison guide · Kids Classes
See Urban Warriors for yourself
A free 30-minute demo introduces the gym. A $35 trial gives you a full one-hour class.