Martial arts for kids refers to the various systems of training for combat that have been implemented on a global scale.
This includes, but is not limited to taekwondo, karate, jiu-jitsu, as well as mixed martial arts. There are hundreds of different ones, so the possibilities are seemingly endless!
Martial arts can especially be helpful for kids. While the physical aspects of training increase your child’s general health, martial arts also improve their emotional well-being.
Featured below are the several benefits kids can receive through martial arts training.
Self-confidence
Martial arts for kids teaches them to have confidence in themselves. As children master complex stances, moves, and fighting forms, they will begin to believe in themselves more. Confidence comes naturally to those who can handle themselves.
Self-discipline
These courses require self-discipline to advance in their ranks. As your child increases their skill level in order to earn new belts, they are also required to clean up after themselves when training is finished, this is one of the amazing advantages for martial arts for kids. This ties directly to home life, where children are required to have responsibility for themselves. With training, your child will improve in their ability to follow directions and take pride in doing the right thing.
Self-defense
Not only do children learn how to defend themselves, but they can also learn other aspects of safety as well. Some programs will teach children about stranger danger, anti-bullying, and home safety in an age-appropriate manner. Overall, Martial arts for kids gives them the tools and abilities needed to protect themselves if needed.
Physical Fitness
Children will learn the importance of being healthy. Being physically fit is a necessity for any aspiring martial artist. However, it will also help children maintain an ideal weight. People of any weight can benefit from participating in martial arts. By involving your child in this now, it will also be easier for them to stay in shape as they get older.
Balance and Coordination
For many children between the age of 3 to 6 years old, this skill is often overlooked. By enrolling them within these classes now, it allows them to practice this skill at an early age. Balance and posture are basic skills for any activity. Poor posture can lead to an array of health problems. It can lead to improper breathing and cramped organs.
These courses also help to improve coordination as much as it does balance. Coordination can improve your overall health. It also decreases the likelihood of your child getting injured in the future.
Retention and Memorization
The courses for kids rely on memory and retention drills. These drills are for children to remember stances, forms, and complex moves overall. By memorizing aspects, they will be able to achieve their next rank of obi. This will also help them to maintain and memorize things in the future when they are in school.
U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Holly Cook
Respect
This is one of the most important aspects of martial arts. Students are taught to show respect to themselves, each other, and their instructors. With martial arts for kids, kids learn that it’s not about winning. It is about personal growth and becoming a better version of yourself.
Positive Social Interaction
Children will be able to safely and successfully interact with others. They are taught within their training. Their training requires them to look others in the eyes when they speak and to stand upright with confidence. They learn to work well as a team, which leads them to become more familiar with interactions. By learning how to engage with others in a respectful manner, it helps them engage with others better throughout their lifetime.
