Martial arts is an excellent way to get in shape, learn self-defense, and have fun for all ages. It's also a great way to socialize with people who share your interest in martial arts. There are several benefits to martial arts and we highlight 5 of them here.
Focus
This may be the number one reason that parents enroll their kids in martial arts. If your child struggles with attention (perhaps they have ADD /ADHD) then you have come to the right place. We recognize that focus is a challenge for many children. In the dojang, they will learn to be aware of their body position as they learn detailed moves. They will need to pay attention to their partners to ensure that everyone is learning and safe. It takes time, but you will absolutely see focus improve which will lead to greater success in school, build your child’s confidence, and open the door to new learning and achievements.
Social
Kids who don't always thrive in highly social environments may find it easier to get to know people and make new friends when they're in a room filled with peers who share a common interest. Making new friends can be hard. The dynamics become much more complicated when kids go from elementary to middle school. They don't teach "friend-making" in school. We do. We teach kids how to introduce themselves and show genuine interest in other people to make real friends who accept them for who they are.
Martial arts kids are able to get to know one another through shared pursuits. Partner-driven exercises foster camaraderie where "courtesy" is the guideline.
Adults will really value a few hours a week training with like-minded individuals. The dojang is a place where life-long friendships are fostered.
Confidence
Confidence comes with achievement, so your child’s self-esteem level will get a boost with every new move mastered and every new belt earned. People who struggle with a low sense of self-confidence become more confident as time and training progress.
One of my adult students said recently that kids need to develop self-compassion. They are so hard on themselves sometimes, and she is right. Martial arts is based on positive reinforcement. Adults can also benefit from more confidence. Leadership skills developed in the dojang carry over with clients and colleagues.
Anti-Bullying/Self-Defense
We teach both kids and adults how to de-escalate whenever possible. Walk-away. If you can't, talk it out. If that doesn't work, do what you need to do to protect yourself that is appropriate for the situation. Just because you can hurt someone may not mean it is the best choice. The best fight is one you didn’t have to be in because somebody's getting hurt (or perhaps arrested).
Our students and parents know to come to us with specific challenges they are facing so we can help them to get a handle on it. Every day, 150,000 kids skip school because of bullying. We don’t want that for our students.
Our adults learn Combat Hapkido, the Science of Self-Defense. These skills are designed for teens and adults to learn that will help to ensure they get home safe without over-reacting that can bring on legal problems.
Fitness
Limiting screen time is a great idea when it comes to getting kids off the couch and encouraging them to be more active, but it only goes so far. Enrolling an inactive child in such a physically demanding pastime not only discourages the sedentary lifestyle, but also provides an enjoyable activity that inspires kids to keep moving.
Adults can be hesitant to start a fitness program. We often hear, "I will start when I get into shape." Don't think that way. We will meet you where you are right now and help you to get in the best shape of your life while you challenge your mind learning new and potentially life-saving skills.
