Greetings Friends!
Why martial arts? As we continue to hold this question–especially when choosing from many activities–be aware of these sports that rank highest in injuries: basketball, football, soccer, baseball, gymnastics/cheer/dance, softball, wrestling, volleyball, hockey https://info.newportortho.com/sports-medicine/orangecounty
Compare this with The 10 most dangerous youth sports in America | PropertyCasualty360
So which sports are good for children?
1. swimming 2. martial arts 3. basketball 4. gymnastics/dance 5. bicycling 6. tennis 7. archery 8. skating
With martial arts high on the above list, below are additional reasons I believe it is beneficial for everyone.1.Teaches self-defense. Building reflexes to stand up to a threat is important for children. 2.Builds confidence. While defensive encounters require skill, having the confidence to stand up to trouble is invaluable, especially for vulnerable young ones. 3.Hones leadership skills. Karate classes implement a ranking system where higher belts signify improved skill. 4. Develops character. In order for kids to advance to the next ranks, they must prove their skills. Strengthening their competence takes perseverance. 5.Encourages self-discipline. In martial arts, constant repetition of various moves is performed in order to achieve perfection in skill.6. Promotes healthy bodyand weight. Regular physical activity of any form helps children develop and maintain a healthy body weight. 7.Offers multiple choices. Martial arts comes in many forms, each with their own appeal.
Young people in martial arts benefit in an environment that can serve as an outlet for both their physical energy and mental worries.
We recognize that not all kids learn and think the same way. Hence, we focus on individual growth rather than team competition. Many kids struggle with the pressure of competing with their peers. But in martial arts the focus is self-improvement.
We work toward specific goals. Kids who learn and think differently feel like they never win at anything. However, in martial arts they can work at their own pace. Each time a new skill level is reached, they are rewarded with a different colored belt. This can boost self-esteem and keep them motivated.
Routines are broken down. A technique or form can have dozens of different movements, but youngsters learn gradually, repeating and adding steps as they go. They learn to anticipate which step comes next and eventually put it all together into fluid movements.
We emphasize self-control and concentration. Attention is central to martial arts. Students must stay focused to learn the movements. When a child’s focus drifts, instructors ask them to take a “horse stance” which helps them to reset.
We improve coordination. Martial arts movements can help kids get a better feel for their bodies. This can benefit those with motor skills deficits and help them understand the power of mind over body.
We provide structure. Martial arts instructors have clear rules and constantly reinforce them. They highlight good behavior in and out of class.
We are a safe way for kids to burn that extra energy. It’s a myth that martial arts encourages violent behavior. In fact, we say fighting is a last resort. At the same time, kicking and punching lets kids work out frustration or anger while practicing self-control.
Karate is an accepting environment. Respect is a core value in martial arts. Kids have to show it for their instructors and peers. Negativity is not tolerated and students are encouraged to support each other.
Karate kids are cool. Kids who learn and think differently feel awkward or out of the loop. But kids think martial arts is cool. It’s hard not to feel special when wearing karate gear and breaking boards.
Karate is an ideal practice for people of all ages. It teaches life skills and provides a sense of well-being and accomplishment. Studying karate will be the first move to a successful, productive future for you and your child.
We offer this unique training experience and a very reasonable cost and your investment in your child’s martial arts is well spent. With the holiday shopping season here, will you consider purchasing karate classes for your family?
Finally, please save December 11th, 1:00 to celebrate Christmas at our annual karate studio party. More details in next month’s newsletter.
Thank you for reading.
Ken Kellogg