REASON #1: THEY WILL BECOME MORE ACTIVE
This is the obvious reason kids should do martial arts in this day and age – to get active and moving. In case you haven’t noticed, we have an epidemic when it comes to our nation’s obesity problem. We’re also increasingly unfit in addition to being overweight. The problem is particularly alarming as it relates to our kids. Youth sports and physical education programs are great, but not every kid is an athlete. At IMC Kemps Creek, we offer many benefits, but when it comes to fitness, becoming a true Martial Artist means becoming a supremely fit person.
REASON #2: THEY WILL LEARN TO FIND FOCUS AND SELF-DISCIPLINE
Of the many challenges that parents face today, one is that we are constantly plugged in. While there are many benefits to surfing the web, there are many more benefits in focus and silence. Unfortunately focus and silence seem to be hard to find. At some stage in life, every one of us comes to learn that the greatest obstacle we face is ourselves. That battle is fought in the focus of our mind and the willingness to confront ourselves. As Bruce Lee pointed out, behind the punches, kicks, and knees, a true martial artist learns to sit with himself and see where his weaknesses are. As a Martial Artist, your child will learn these values.
REASON #3: THEY WILL LEARN TO TAKE HITS
Your child will learn what it is to take a hit. Part of life is learning that we all take hits. Learning how best to take the hits and get back up in Martial Arts means your child will learn to fail – a lot. Half of Martial Arts is hitting, but the other half is getting hit. Ironically, learning how to take a hit is perhaps the best way for your kid to learn how to avoid it.
REASON #4: THEY WILL GAIN SELF CONFIDENCE AND SELF RESPECT
The right martial arts school will teach your child that there are no tough guys. Every martial artist ultimately learns this sense of respect and true confidence. Your child will learn that confidence and respect for others comes from a deep sense of self-knowledge.
REASON #5: THEY WILL LEARN CONFLICT RESOLUTION
People often ask whether I have ever used my Martial Arts in a fight. Indeed I have used the skills learned from Martial Arts many times to resolve conflict, but thankfully, never in a physical altercation outside the ring. Being a Martial Artist gives you a sense of calm before a fight or conflict, and allows you to troubleshoot the situation, which in most cases can be resolved in a calm manner.
The bottom line is that almost any child can and will benefit from participation in Martial Arts. As to what Martial Art, it’s honestly not very important. For a typical six or eight year old the point is to just get them moving and focused. The key is choosing the right teacher and Martial Arts school.
