Jeshurun's Mind: Health and Fitness

Ten Long Term Benefits Of Martial Arts For Kids

There are a number of misconceptions about martial arts training for kids. For instance, some people think that the kids will turn violent or become bullies, oblivious that martial arts is based on non-violence. Furthermore, martial arts training does not only encompass the physical aspect of life, but also emotional and mental lessons as well.

1. Builds Self-Esteem 

Many kids’ activities and sports involve fierce competition and sometimes the demand to win at all costs. This not only causes the kids to be aggressive and moody, but also leaves them grappling with self-esteem issues. On the contrary, martial arts build self-esteem and confidence, as well as courtesy, respect and concentration. 

2. Self Defense 

Even though kids cannot always take on every opponent that comes their way, especially during confrontations, they can use the learned techniques to defend themselves and prevent escalation of assaults. The knowledge that they can defend themselves gives them peace of mind and also empowers them to deal with their problems through non-violent means. 

3. Fosters Self-Discipline

Contrary to the myth that it promotes violence and indiscipline, martial arts training actually fosters self-discipline in kids and equips them with socialization, concentration and self-control skills. Disciplined kids often find themselves doing what they must do even when they don’t feel like doing them it. 

4. Teaches Respect 

Normally, during martial arts training, kids learn a lot about respect either from bowing to the teacher or master before starting or ending classes, uttering certain phrases or words, or standing still and awaiting the next command. This valuable lesson is often carried outside the dojo to other places such as schools. This in turn teaches them to respect other people and helps to improve their behavior and also grades. 

5. Instills Leadership Skills 

Apart from offering martial arts training programs for kids, many martial arts schools also teach kids leadership courses. Teaching martial arts beginners, for instance, forms part of becoming a black belt. This means that on the way to becoming a black belt or even during regular training, a kid will at one time, have to teach other young students. This helps the kids develop leadership skills. 

6. Helps in Goal Setting 

Martial arts training is based around a system of accomplishments which entail getting a certain colored belt before proceeding to the next level. By striving toward each belt and undergoing tests for every new level, a kid will acquire valuable experience on setting, prioritizing and achieving specific goals. 

7. Improves Physical Fitness 

Martial arts training encourages physical activity in kids and is a great way to getting them off the couch, other than limiting their screen time. Most martial arts training incorporate intense training which helps in reducing childhood obesity and improving the kids’ muscular strength and cardiovascular fitness. 

8. Builds Strength and Endurance 

As a sport, martial arts help in building strength and endurance. Martial arts training is ideal especially for kids who do not excel in team sports. This is because it gives them the ability and opportunity to flourish in it, while at the same time combining mental and physical practices. 

9. Increases the ability to learn 

Most martial arts programs require deep concentration and strict attention. Having to concentrate and even memorize certain terms, sometimes under pressure, increases the ability to learn. This enhanced learning ability can then be used in school or elsewhere. Mastering martial arts skills also requires excellent listening skills. By learning how to listen attentively, a kid can greatly benefit from verbal instructions and one-on-one training in the dojo, school, home or elsewhere. 

10.  Improves the overall life of a Kid 

The enormous benefits of martial arts for kids go beyond the dojo. For instance, high self-esteem, confidence, increased ability to learn and being physically fit, just to mention a few, help the kid to easily navigate the social and academic aspects of school and generally improve his or her life. This ensures that kids get an all-round positive influence on them as they develop into adults.