Martial Arts Classes for Children

By Ivy Jensen, Teen Red Belt

Many people have noticed the slow change in children through the generations. While kids used to be hooked on the outdoors and physical activities, children now have shifted to digital options for entertainment. However, martial arts for children provides a solution to this ongoing problem. Martial arts such as Karate, Aikido, Taekwondo, Jujitsu, and Judo all teach children not only how to defend themselves in dangerous situations, but also many other talents. Martial arts help children's physical health, confidence, integrity, discipline, self control, and teamwork. Below are some reasons why the martial arts classes taught at the Colorado Taekwondo Institute are are great for children

Physical Benefits
Muscle growth is a key part of a developing child’s life. And many martial arts for children will make this one of their goals. Unlike team sports such as soccer and basketball, martial arts focus on individual growth. The dynamic movements found in many martial arts help children work specific muscle groups while consistent practicing will assist in increasing their endurance and strength. Furthermore, warm-ups will include stretches and agility exercises that will enhance a child's flexibility, balance and coordination.

Confidence and Self-esteem
A lack of confidence growing up is a huge roadblock in most kid’s childhood. It may make them insecure and slow down their social life. However, children in martial arts often experience a boost in self confidence as they progress. As they learn and grow alongside others, their self-esteem will increase day by day. As they progress through belt levels, they will feel more and more comfortable in their own body. This will encourage them to step out of their comfort zone and try new things they would never have done before.

Character Building
One of the other benefits of martial arts for children is the character building. Many martial arts stress the importance of integrity, perseverance, humility, and respect in their students. Each trait being reinforced in every class. Martial arts teach children traits that will drastically help them in their lifetime. Such as respect. Teaching children at a young age to respect themselves and others will benefit them in the long run. When making friends, getting a job, or even just ordering food, respect will help them make it a good experience for everyone. Respect, along with many other traits that are taught in martials arts, will help a child mature and grow into a better person.

Discipline and Focus
While other sports are quick moving with split second decisions, martials arts are often slower paced. Many martial arts want each move to be perfect before you learn the next. This encourages children to follow instructions and stay focused and patient as they work towards their next goal. These skills will translate into other areas of their life such as school or home. Students in martial arts will be more focused in school and get better grades than their classmates. While at home they may listen more and follow directions quicker. Additionally, martials arts will help children learn to set goals and reach them. Teaching them perseverance and patience.

Self-Control
Self-control is a crucial skill for children to learn as they grow. As they learn martial arts, they are taught to have self-discipline and understand their actions. They learn how to have a calm and respectful attitude towards everyone. This also means that although they are learning how to defend themselves physically, they know when to use it and when not to use it. Martial arts is also a great way for children to control stress, and other intense emotions. Instead of acting impulsive, children will learn to express their emotions in a calm, respectful way. Children in martial arts are often more composed in stressful situations.

Teamwork
Even though martial arts is often an individual activity, it still supports social interaction and teamwork. People of all ages, backgrounds, and skill levels make each community welcoming. Children will be able to make many new friends and connections by helping  and supporting each other reach common goals. Many competitions also involve teamwork. These competitions will let children learn how to work with others towards goals. It will also allow kids to grow deeper connections and understandings of their peers. All together, martial arts environments teach children the importance of sharing knowledge, cooperation, respect, and understanding.

Overall, martial arts for children is a well-rounded way for a child to be active. Promoting physical health, confidence, integrity, discipline, self control, and teamwork martials arts will help a child over many parts of their life. Joining a martial art will not only teach a child self-defense, but many other life skills and values. This will grow each child into a compassionate, strong, disciplined individual. Martial arts is not just about fighting and defending themselves, it is also about becoming stronger physically, and mentally.