Are you having a hard time choosing a sport for your child? You might want to consider enrolling them in a martial arts class!
Studying martial arts can be much more beneficial and rewarding than traditional team sports like soccer or baseball, for several reasons.
Martial Arts Classes are FUN
Keeping children motivated isn’t always easy, so finding a sport that they will actually look forward to playing is key. Traditional sports can be very discouraging for children who are new and not as skilled as some of the other children who steal the spotlight. These sports also incorporate heavy conditioning in their practices, which is important, but not necessarily fun.
The great thing about practicing martial arts is that children don’t realize that they are exercising and getting physically fit, since classes incorporate fun games and activities to keep them entertained and engaged. It also allows children to build their social skills while learning the valuable art of self-defense. And you don’t have to worry about your child being discouraged because students are taught to help and motivate each other, so that they can all grow stronger together.
Martial Arts Go Beyond Team Sports
Martial arts teach self-reliance and personal growth in ways that team sports cannot. Most instructors require students to adhere to a strict code of non-violence outside of class. Students must agree to use their defense skills for only that – self-defense. Students are also trained on conflict resolution and are taught ways to avoid fighting. We live in a world where bullying has become more common and devastating. By learning these skills, children gain the ability to stand up for and protect themselves,
Children are also not required to compete, and they are not pressured to spar against another student if they do not feel ready to do so. Your child should come away from the class with new friends, not new enemies.
Martial arts are also a great way to get kids moving and develop their motor skills without much risk of injury. Developing good coordination is an important step for young children, and youth classes like Muay Thai or Jiu Jitsu are a great way to develop these skills. Practicing the different techniques, poses, strikes and blocks will improve hand-eye coordination and overall fitness.
The Spiritual and Mental Benefits of Martial Arts
In addition to the physical and social benefits, martials arts provide significant spiritual and mental benefits. Some classes begin with a quick meditation where students are encouraged to clear their minds. This is not a religious practice but a necessary step toward developing greater self-control. They are warned to never bring outside aggression into class; instead they are trained to handle tension in a positive manner.
Martial arts can also help children with learning difficulties. So many kids today struggle with short attention spans, while many others are diagnosed with attention deficit disorders. Concerned parents have found martial arts to be an efficient way to manage ADHD, Aspergers and more! Classes like Muay Thai and Jiu Jitsu can be a positive challenge for children, as it requires them to stay engaged and alert. Students will be following the instructor’s directions and mimicking their technique, in an environment free of distractions – the perfect setting to “workout” your child’s attention span. The instructors will provide the students with constructive feedback and teach them how to learn from their mistakes.
Don’t Delay Changing Your Child’s Life!
When looking for a school, think about your child’s learning style and level of athleticism. Before signing up, talk to instructors about their classes to see if they would be a good fit. You can even sign your child up for a two-week trial to see how they like it as well. Inquiring more about our different martial arts styles will also help you make the right decision.
Whatever style your child wants to try, you will find the perfect class at Eric Nolan’s Xtreme Training Center. Call us today at 661-833-3367 to learn more about our Kids Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu programs! And don’t forget to ask about our AWESOME family discounts!