D. Praveen Naik

SHIN-SHOTOKAN SPORT'S KARATE -DO

Benefits of Karate and Martial Arts for Kids

News

Young kids’ eager minds grasp new ideas and techniques readily. Childhood is one of the best times to start on the path toward self-respect, respect for others, respect for healthy authority figures, as well as physical health and emotional balance. Studying karate or other forms of martial arts offers young kids the chance to develop both physically and emotionally—at once giving them an opportunity to reach their peak potential.

Participating in karate classes offers children numerous advantages. The main benefit is the lessons they absorb in training, including the ones that follow, are carried over into other areas of their lives, such as in the classroom, during extracurricular activities and even at home. Martial arts…

1. Teaches Self-Defense

Building reflexes to stand up to a threat is important for children. Learning self-defense maneuvers is a key skill that is developed by learning karate or other martial arts. When children are confronted by bullies, the techniques they learn in karate gives them the ability to defend themselves.

2. Builds Confidence

While defensive encounters take skill, having the confidence to stand up to trouble is invaluable, especially for those who are at a malleable age. In karate classes, instructors provide continual encouragement and feedback, which, in combination, builds students’ self-confidence levels as well as proper technique.

In martial arts programs, such as Karate & Tae Kwon Do, kids quickly learn that an opponent’s physical size matters less than mental hardiness. Small children’s confidence levels soar when they discover in their martial arts classes that solid technique can overcome an adversary who is twice as large or strong.

3. Hones Leadership Skills



Karate classes, especially, revolve around a ranking system, where higher belts equate to improved skill. As children progress and earn higher level belts, they serve as leaders for lower-level students, often assisting with coaching and offering support. Self-leadership is a concurrent side benefit.

Leadership traits depend on both self-respect and respect for others. Both of these essential forms of respect are developed during the young martial arts students’ regular training. As class participants bow to their teachers or wait for instructor commands, respect for authority is instilled.

4. Develops Character

In order for kids to advance to the next ranks, they must prove their skills. Strengthening their competence takes perseverance. Wearing upper level belts requires a demonstration of correct technique, which can only be achieved through consistent effort and dedication to the discipline.

Additionally, in the martial arts youth learn to set individual goals to work toward. Young participants in karate classes are keen on earning their belts, with the black belt, and subsequent degrees and instructor levels being the highest distinction. Students learn to prioritize activities to reach their intended goals, perhaps even surpassing them.

SHIHAN
D.PRAVEEN NAIK
SHIN-SHOTOKAN SPORT'S KARATE -DO