Lessons: Martial Arts, Part 3

Because of the growing popularity in martial arts, I've decided to write a series of articles on instruction. Martial arts lessons can be very expensive so it's important to get the most out of your money. The benefits, however, are definitely worth it. What can kids get out of martial arts? The number one answer for many families is "confidence." Martial arts not only give children a way to defend themselves, they work on building self-discipline and increase self-esteem. Martial arts are an excellent alternative for children who feel uncomfortable in group sports, children with esteem issues, and even kids with special needs. Children with Down Syndrome experience progress in motor skills that hasn't been seen in other sports participation.

If martial arts are so great, why doesn't instruction start earlier? Unlike many sports, martial arts experts suggest children don't begin training until 6 or 7. Until they can balance on one foot, and have grown into a more mature attention span, martial arts instruction doesn't pan out for the dollar. There are some dojos which teach early classes, usually ages 4-5, in self-defense but for the most part these focus on remembering phone numbers, watching out for strangers, and other lessons parents can be teaching at home. The exception to this are classes especially targeted for helping children with problems in balance, motor skills, and attention problems.

The early years in martial arts, through age 9 or 10, are used to emphasize character development and the art's philosophy. During this time it's important that a child like their instructor, and agree with what they are being asked to do. One idea stressed in many of the arts (as part of self-discipline) is to remain non-violent outside of the dojo. This is one reason martial arts instruction is invaluable to parents of schoolyard "bullies."

But aren't martial arts dangerous? Actually, martial arts are generally safer than other sports. These aren't the bare knuckle days of old. Competitions are smaller scale, and padding is required for feet and legs, groin, hands, head and teeth. Face protection, cage or plastic face masks, is also becoming more popular. Your child is much more likely to sustain a serious injury in a sport such as soccer or baseball than by practicing martial arts.

Two weeks ago we discussed types of martial arts and how they differ in Lessons: Martial Arts, Part 1. Last week we talked about choosing a dojo and instructor in Part 2. Martial arts can be very beneficial, and may be very expensive, researching before your first lesson is number 1.

Go To Page: 1

Articles in this Topic    Discussions in this Topic