There are so many reasons why children should learn a martial art. Here are just a few of them:
Respect
Sometimes in the modern day, children find it hard to respect authoritative figures however martial arts teaches kids to respect their instructor and each other as they learn the art.
Self Discipline
Martial arts will help to teach children the art of self-discipline. All too often in the modern day children are accustomed to getting what they want when they want. Martial arts teach restraint and patience.
Listening Skills
Listening is key in martial arts as without listening to the instructor they will be unable to complete the move correctly. It teaches listening on a one-to-one basis as well as in a group and demonstrating these skills allows children to progress through the belts.
Fitness
It gets kids away from their screens and off the sofa and encourages them to be more physically active at the same time as having fun. Learning a martial art is a full body workout not only for the body but the mind as well.
Goal Setting
Having a competition or tournament that the children can aim for helps teach them to set goals in life and whether they win or not it helps them to deal with either outcome which will be beneficial in later life.
Teamwork
Often in practice classes will work in pairs to practise and learn new skills and moves. This not only teaches them to respect the other children but work together to achieve their mutual goal. They’ll soon learn that sometimes two heads are better than one.
Increased Confidence and Self Worth
When a child masters a new skill or move it will boost their confidence and gives them a real sense of achievement. Working their way up through the ranks also shows that hard work pays off and they have something to be confident about.
Conflict Resolution
A common misconception of martial arts is that they promote violent behaviour but in fact it is quite the opposite. Martial arts teach children peaceful, non-violent conflict resolution skills and emphasis than physical altercations must be avoided.