by Jeffrey Helaney, IX Dan
Staying active and fit is important for every child, however; not all children thrive in the same environment. Although team sports can be a positive experience for some children not every child does well in a group environment. Martial arts are a great alternative and focus more on personal development rather than team competition or winning.
Martial arts have been practiced for thousands of years through a number of different cultures to promote physical and mental health, as well as, self-defense. That practice has continued to the present. Millions of people currently study martial arts throughout the world for a host of different reasons. Although martial art styles can vary greatly, they all carry similar benefits.
Research has shown that martial arts can help improve children’s ability to maintain self-control and improve focus. Some of the reasons for these positive outcomes lay in the structure of the classes themselves. Classes broken down in development chunks structured to provide skill set growth. This type of focused activity requires both intentional dedication and control. Instructional repetition of any type helps children learn new skills, in martial arts it also helps develop coordination and balance. Moreover, it is a great way for kids to get rid of that excess energy that they have been building up all week. Last but not least, children thrive in this accepting type of structured environment.
Thanks to television and films martial arts has gained a type of cultural notoriety. Many children can seem themselves in the shows that they watch. It is generally an easy ‘sell’ to get your child to try a martial arts class, however; to enjoy the benefits of the classes it is important to commit. Due to the repetition and hard work many children’s enthusiasm will temporarily fizzle between months 3 to 6 because they are not yet able to do all the things they have seen on television. This is often replaced by a sense of belonging, burgeoning friendships, and the beginnings of true development. Children who find a ‘home’ in martial arts will often practice it through the rest of their lives.
Not every type of martial arts class is appropriate for children. Despite the popularity of Mixed Martial Arts, it is often too aggressive for still physically and mentally developing children. Traditional arts are often the better choice because classes tend to focus on character development as much as they do physical skills. While the particular art is a matter of personal choice, it does not matter as much as how the the classes are being taught. It is important to find a place where you are comfortable with the instruction. Are the instructors supportive, knowledgable, and do they communicate well with the students of different age groups?
Before joining a school make sure you take the time to speak with the school owner (or head instructor) to honestly and openly discuss your child’s needs and challenges. Make sure that you have done at least one free trial at the school where you are attending and that you are comfortable making a commitment. The best experiences are ones that you share with your child, take the time to sit and watch classes or better yet join them. It will give you a family friendly activity that can make the new journey more exciting for them.
Want to learn more? Contact Omaha Blue Waves Martial Arts at (402) 215-6003.
About the Author:
