Martial arts importance has not yet faded. Even after a long time, martial arts have thrived and become even more practiced all around the world. Contrary to what others believe, they can be practiced even by young ones and not by adults alone. Karate, especially has become a favorite by people of all ages.

Nowadays, it is becoming more popular among kids. This is because they are so many benefits of it for kids. Here are the primary ones which are being observed especially by parents who have children who are into it.

Self-defence - most of the time, parents enroll their kids in martial arts schools and academies for this reason. The rising rate of crimes that involve children have alarmed parents too much that they believe that enrolling their children in these schools will increase the possibility of preventing such circumstances. This is actually true. Of course you cannot expect children aged five to ten doing complicated moves. The point is at least they can learn basic yet effective ways to escape dangerous situations. Simple self-defense moves are enough to give parents a peace of mind.

Self-confidence - why is this important in every child? Whenever they will go, kids need to be confident with themselves. At school, they need this to answer the questions properly and perform activities. Don’t you know that most of those kids who do not have self-confidence, no matter how intelligent they are doomed to be low performers? They can also be prone to bullying and ridicule. When they know martial arts, at least they can be confident with themselves.

Self-discipline- one of the basic values that martial arts teach children is self-discipline. One cannot actually pass these courses if they do not master this value. As a parent, one of the hardest tasks is getting their attention. This is actually one of the primary lessons that they will be learning in karate lessons. Believe it or not, you can get positive changes in their behavior once they attended martial arts curriculum.

Keeping them fit-of course, who cannot be physically fit in doing these courses? With all the moves and tactics to learn, how can the body store too much fat? As young as they are they will learn how to value their body. No need to instruct them to eat this and that for they will willfully eat healthy foods and do their own exercises.

As mentioned, there are many benefits of martial arts training for kids. However, for these positive things to be enjoyed fully, you must choose the right center or school. To have a fresh start, you can always browse the internet for some helpful websites. You can also ask other parents for this matter or the school where your children are. Shopping as early as now will help you make up your mind. Things like quality teachers and complete facilities are common criteria to look after in choosing martial arts schools for your kids.

Have Fun – Train Hard – Train Smart

Sensei Malcolm Bale

In this “day and age”, like the elders would say, the time of PlayStation 3, Xbox, fast food, computers and social networks and the like, we often read articles about our kids and the effect the world has on them.

These articles range from obesity due to lack of exercise, ill-mannered teens that are just out of control, children still wetting beds after age 7, the list goes on…. One of the issues that should be on the radar of your Karate Class or Dojo is the issue of child neglect by parents. This neglect does not refer to physical neglect such as food, clothing and shelter, but rather, emotional neglect.

Emotional neglect can have many roots, but can lead to various symptoms later such as lack of cognitive ability, lack of social behaviour skills, lack of confidence etc. These symptoms can manifest separately, or one can cause the other and have a snowball effect.

One of the key enablers of growing a successful student, is identifying these symptoms and addressing some of these roots. A point should be made at every Instructor’s meeting, to discuss the behaviour, interaction and conduct of certain students within the class. You need to look at those that need to be lifted up, but also at those who need to get down to earth. Your training methods should be structured to address both scenarios with a tweak here and there as necessary to tip the scales. This mental reprogramming of a child takes quite a while, depending on the damage caused by a person, event, or a combination of the two.

I have personally identified a trend in children that are dropped-off and collected after class vs. children that are brought to class with the parent/s or guardians sitting in on the class. In most cases, the children who are dropped-off, are those children that need boosting vs. those whose parents / guardians are part of the training experience, even by just being there. You do get those parents that are present at the class, but they are disconnected from what their child is doing, how he is performing because they are reading a magazine or something to pass the time. These are the boundary line children and you should consider “working the audience” when identifying that this is happening to a child. Engage with audience by saying, Hey parents, did you see that great stance” or “Hey Daniel’s dad, did you teach him this or is he just that good!!”

The mission of your class or dojo needs to focused on building people by what you do and how you do it. Character, sincerity, effort, etiquette, self-control and respect must be the foundation of learning at your dojo and be in the hearts and minds of your students.

Teaching children martial arts is like nurturing a Bonsai tree (not to steal the fame from Mr Miagi), You cannot let it grow for 10 years and then try and shape it, it requires constant attention to detail, sometimes, detail you never knew was there.

We build confidence in our children by regular, controlled kumite and karate training camps (Gashuku), Our tournaments are focused on controlled, professional development of people with a well formed rewards and recognition system. We teach our children how to manage and deal with emotions of success and defeat in order to maintain a delicate balance.

Have Fun – Train Hard – Train Smart

Sensei Malcolm Bale

As any martial artist will tell you, there are multiple Benefits of Martial Arts For Kids. Of course, the most obvious benefit is a knowledge of self defence which is one of the major reasons why systems were developed in the first place. Knowing how to defend oneself and loved ones in a potentially dangerous situation is an asset in today’s world just as it was hundreds of years ago. Unlike often portrayed in the movies, training is not just about fighting. Many people take up martial arts for the fitness benefits as well. Training in karate, tae kwon do, kung fu and other styles will improve one’s cardiovascular fitness as well as tone the muscular system. Strength will increase from the calisthenics usually employed within training but perhaps not to the same extent as working out with weights. But overall power of one’s body will definitely increase since the techniques teach how to use strength effectively.

Most people will also improve their flexibility significantly while training since entire ranges of motion from the body are exercised. This is especially true with styles such as tae kwon do, Thai kickboxing as well as some schools of karate and kung fu where high kicks are used. All martial art styles will result in an improvement of one’s coordination as well.

Unlike many other forms of physical activity, martial arts also have a mental and sometimes spiritual element, which not only improves the mind’s focus but also helps in self control. Emotions such as anger and fear are better controlled through training. Many martial artists can find an inner peace through their training. In today’s hectic world, these particular benefits translate into one of the most effective stress management tools available. When training in a session or in a group class, all the day to day troubles of the world seem to be forgotten. People come out refreshed, energized and ready to tackle the big world out there.

Training in martial arts usually involves many little steps and progressions. As one advances, the feeling of accomplishment comes with added confidence. This is especially beneficial for children who were not very confident in the first place. An increase in self confidence for kids (as well as adults) will have a cross over effect in other areas of life such as in other sports and general self esteem. Other challenges in life, both physical and mental, will be met with much less fear.

An important benefit of martial arts training for parents to note is that children will generally become more disciplined from the unique formalities of martial arts classes. This is one benefit that is often lacking in other sports. Former ‘problem’ kids with bad attitudes could become well behaved and respectful as a result of taking classes a few times per week. Respect is something that all instructors place great importance in during their classes. Martial arts kids are often very well behaved children no matter what social economic backgrounds they come from.

Martial arts training has so many great benefits covering physical, mental and emotional aspects that it’s no wonder why it has become one of the most popular activities for both adults and children. However, it is important to point out that not all programs will produce the range of benefits discussed. Programs that teach just combat fighting techniques may not result in the desired mental and spiritual benefits so it is important to search around for the right school that will offer the benefits one wishes to achieve.

Have Fun – Train Hard – Train Smart

Sensei Malcolm Bale

Martial arts are still considered a rather controversial subject, and the unfortunate misconception that they can promote violence is still present. However, just a little research will show any parent that martial arts promote the exact opposite of violence: they teach self control, balance and a healthy physical and mental state.— When you enroll your kid in a martial arts class you have to consider his or her options as well. If having the child learn martial arts is only your goal, and your kid does not share it; there is a high probability that he or she will soon become bored with the sport and quit. In order to get the most out of a martial arts class, you have to make sure the kid enjoys being there and that the environment is suitable.—

The reasons for learning martial arts are numerous. Many parents want to give their children a boost of confidence and improve their self-defense. Although at this early stage, the physical defence as the only noticeable element, succeeding with martial arts classes will have a series of positive psychological effects on your kid as he or she grows up. However, self-defense focuses on solving conflicts peacefully in an initial stage, and using physical action only when needed. Both the bully and the bullied can benefit from martial arts classes. While the bully will learn that the only way to have power is by respecting the others, the bullied will know how to develop defense skills and how to end a potential conflict.—

Just like most sports, Martial Arts will help your child develop a strong and healthy body. Sedentary children are numerous, with countless hours spent in front of their favourite computer game. The “once in a while” basketball game is not enough to keep your child active and fit. Martial arts however may become a life style rather than a sport. This means that its affect will go beyond the classes and far outside the gym. Several physical traits can be improved th?? w?? including muscle strength, resistance to fatigue, increased flexibility, and better blood flow.—

As mentioned before, there are more than physical skills to be learned in a martial arts class. Your child will get more self-confidence and self esteem. Although martial arts are not a team sport, they can teach important skills in this area. Your child will also develop skills such as patience and discipline, which can be easily translated in his or her school performance as well. Martial arts will teach children the notion of respect – and you will notice that ???????ll? with over active children. It is important that the instructor does not focus only in developing the physical side of martial arts in kids; he must also teach good demeanor and respect.—

Even though martial arts also imply physical contact, which can lead to injuries, most classes have a very strict policy as for all that are concerned. The truth is a reduced chance of your child becoming injured during a martial arts class compared to a soccer, basketball, or baseball field. Strict instructor supervision ensures that your kid stays safe and has optimal conditions to improve all of the above-mentioned skills.

Have Fun – Train Hard – Train Smart

Sensei Malcolm Bale

Admit it. When the going gets tough at home, we’ve all plopped the kids in front of the television and breathed a sigh of relief. Finally, we can get started on dinner, maybe check email or sort that massive pile of laundry.

But when your five-year old yells at you “Mom, Kids Rule!” or your ten-year old horrifies you with language that would make a sailor blush, you realize there must be something amiss with what these “family programs” really teach our kids. And sadly, its happening all over the media today, from sports to cartoons, and our children are learning things that we, as parents, vowed we would never teach them. Old fashioned values like respect and self-discipline, seems to have been forgotten, replaced by the dreaded “bling bling” pop culture of today.

Just the thought of your angelic three-year old morphing into a designer-clad, smart-mouthed, money-worshipping, me-obsessed, lay-about is enough to make any parent consider that threatening military school brochure, but there is solution out there to consider.

Martial Arts training.

There are so many Benefits of Martial Arts training for kids so it makes sense to look into the potential a little closer. From Ninja Turtles to The Karate Kid -

You and your kids have all seen the flying kicks, battle cries and mighty chops of their favorite TV characters, as they beat the bad guys to submission – but, you may ask, how on earth can these acts of violence teach my child anything worthwhile?

First, know what you see on television (save perhaps the Karate Kid) is a far cry from what real martial arts are all about. The fact is, martial arts training is based on non-violence.

Originating in Asia (mainly Japan, China and Korea, although Thailand and Vietnam have their own practices as well), martial arts range from a variety of types and styles, all of which are based on well-rounded, moral teachings. The beauty of learning martial arts is that it encompasses not only the physical aspect of the “sport”, but mental and emotional lessons as well.

Comparing that to their kid’s activities and sports, where fierce competitiveness and “winning at all costs” seems to be the order of the day, it’s not surprising that many children grapple with issues of self-esteem and misplaced aggression.

Now imagine your child actually learning valuable life lessons, skills that he will take throughout life, laying the foundation for a happy, well-adjusted and fulfilled adult life. If only karate for kids was popular in the 70′s, when I was growing up!

The Advantages

o Karate, and other martial arts for kids, builds confidence and self-esteem as well as self-discipline, respect, concentration and courtesy.

o Many martial arts schools also offer leadership courses for kids, in conjunction with their karate for kids programs, or similar lessons.

o Martial Arts is ideal for children who do not do well in team sports, giving them the ability to flourish this activity, while combining physical and mental practices.

o Many do not realize this, but it is a  fact that martial arts training is safer than most school sports.

o Children with special needs, such as ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), learning difficulties and hyperactivity are often recommended to participate in martial arts for kids because of the clear benefits in its structured training techniques.

Kung-Fu Master or Ninja Warrior?

Before you sign up Junior for the first martial arts class you see, take some time to check out the different methods available, and match it with what you know would suit your child best. This is a good way to avoid any problems that may sprout from a conflict of your child’s personality and the training techniques.

Is your little Zach a sensitive soul? Then maybe a class that doesn’t center on sparring (full-on kicks and punches training) but rather, slower, defensive maneuvers would fare better for him. Kids with an aggressive streak, however, may prefer the more forceful moves and thrive on competitive sparring.

Here’s a quick primer on the kid-friendly martial arts training you’re likely to find:

Martial Arts From Japan

Karate

o Uses defensive and aggressive moves

o Centers on building strength and endurance

o Involves chops, punches, kicks, strikes, blocking and sparring

o May use weapons

Jujitsu

o Forms the basis of Karate, Judo and Aikido

o Uses defensive and aggressive moves

o Involves lots of sparring

o Teaches a fair amount of weapons training

Aikido

o Uses more “spiritual” and harmonious style in redirecting the aggression of the attacker at the form of defense, using throws, pins, rolls etc.

o Taught on the? premise of disabling an aggressor without attacking, through your individual inner energy

o Doe not involve sparring or competitions

Judo

o Uses gentle, “wrestling-like” movements

o Considered one of the safest methods of martial arts

o Emphasizes physical control as well as mental development

o Engages in competitions

Martial Arts From China

Kung-Fu

o The generic term referring to Chinese martial arts with a variety of styles

o Involves attack movements as well as defensive techniques

o Teaches kicks, punches, chops, throws, falls, grappling, katas, leg sweeps and blows among others.

o Engages in sparring competitions

Martial Arts From Korea

Taekwondo

o Competitive in nature, involves techniques using elaborate footwork and unique high kicks.

o Emphasizes strength, force and attack methods.

o Engages in lots of sparring and competitions.

Choosing The Right Instruction

If you have an idea of the type of martial arts class you’d like your child to participate in, the next step would be to find the right school. Finding the right class that not only matches your child’s and your needs, in terms of teachers you feel comfortable with, the price, facilities and so on, are all important factors.

Say you’ve found a local place that specializes in Karate for Kids. What are the things you should look for?

1. Good Instructors

Check out their qualifications, teaching methods and watch carefully how they interact with the other children. It should be a  fun learning experience!

2. Space and Safety

Obviously you would want to entrust your child in an establishment that is safe, well-maintained, and clean with ample space as well as decent facilities and equipment.

3. School Values

Different martial arts schools inevitably go by different values, for instance, one kid’s karate class may handle aggression in one way, while a judo class would have a different approach. Take the time to observe which school’s ideals match your family’s principles.

4. Prices and Schedules

Prices for martial arts training can vary according to school and location, so make sure the instruction you choose represents fair value. Finding the most effective way to fit martial arts training into your family’s lifestyle is also essential, knowing what works best with your schedule and other activities.

Baby Black belts

Starting your child young in karate training is ideal (children as young as the age of four are usually accepted, it is also a good way to hone fine motor skills), and lots of parents have found that in as little as a year, their children who were involved in martial arts had noticeably gained positive traits such as increased self-esteem, respect and overall physical fitness.

Many parents also opt to join a martial arts training program themselves, making it a great bonding experience for the entire family

Have Fun – Train Hard – Train Smart

Sensei Malcolm Bale