Wednesday, November 19, 2014

4 Reasons Why Martial Arts Benefits Children

By Leigh Metopher


If you are considering signing your child up for martial arts, there are many excellent reasons to do so. Of course, karate classes will improve a child physically, but some of the mental benefits are a huge reason why martial arts can transform your child's life. Consider these four advantages of martial arts for children and teenagers.

1. Improve Your Overall Level Of Confidence

For a child who seems to have little athletic ability or a shy child that is a frequent target of bullying, life on the playground can be tough. Often these are children have difficulties with their peers and it can damage their self-confidence. One of the great things about martial arts is that anyone can be successful if they work hard. You don't have to be big and powerful to be great at karate, you just have to focus and learn. As your child progresses in karate training, this will build up confidence which they will apply in other areas of life.

2. Discipline & Focus Improves

It doesn't matter if you are tall or short, you can be great at martial arts. However, you do have to apply yourself, work hard and focus. These are skills that are important for all parts of our life, and instructors will stress the benefit of remaining focused and determined when completing any task. One of the goals of martial arts training is to instill a sense of self-discipline in the student. Instructors stress that every act we do needs to be purposeful, whether it's learning a new kick or finishing up math homework. We always need to do our best. Because children enjoy karate classes, they tend to focus well on learning these skills and the instructors also will be interested in whether or not the child is staying focused at school and at home.

3. Learning Respect

Learning to respect yourself and others is a life skill. Karate instructors insist on good manners and respect in the dojo. Not only are you required to show respect to your teachers, you also have to show respect to other students. In addition, the kids are taught the importance of showing respect to their parents and other adults, as well as other kids and their brothers and sisters. A child also will be taught to respect themselves, which means taking care of yourself and always doing your best.

4. Self-Defense Builds Confidence

Everyone, big or small, should be able to defend themselves and this is a big reason why many parents enroll their children in martial arts classes. Not only do the skills taught allow children to defend themselves in general, the exercise builds strength and stamina. In addition, the training also teaches self-awareness which increases their safety in a variety of situations. They will be more aware of their surroundings and be more aware if there are any dangers around. The improved self-confidence and strength also tends to make them less of a target for bullies in general, but they will have the ability to defend themselves if that becomes necessary.

At Team MAI, this Carlsbad karate school offers training for children wanting to learn martial arts in Carlsbad, martial arts in Encinitas or martial arts in San Marcos. Team MAI karate classes focus on the fundamentals of karate, but the instructors also focus on teaching confidence, respect and discipline. Your child not only will increase their physical strength, but instructors also want them to find success in all other areas of their life.




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