Martial arts were originally developed as combat training. The majority of them originated in Asian countries, such as Japan (karate and aikido), Korea (tae kwon do and Hapkido), and China (kung fu and tai chi), and they all involve conditioning both the body and the mind. There has been a surge in Youth Martial Arts Training in Newton MA, where parents are seeing a host of benefits for their children in martial arts classes.
Character Development
Many parents and teachers describe the benefits of martial arts for youth in terms of character development. Children who begin training at an early age learn self-discipline and perseverance that carry over into other areas of their lives, like school work. Most martial arts classes also strongly emphasize the value of respect for teachers and elders, and martial arts instructors require certain behaviors that indicate respect, such as bowing to the instructor and taking turns according to seniority. For many children, the lessons learned in the dojo transfer to the school classroom, helping them get better grades.
Self-Confidence
Because martial arts classes involve testing and promotion, children are able to take pride in their accomplishments as they rise in rank and master new techniques. By practicing for tests, they learn that hard work pays off. Children and youths who stick with martial arts develop confidence not just in their ability to persevere but in the strength, speed, and coordination they learn.
Self-Defense
The development of self-confidence and physical skills gives children and youths a sense of empowerment. Bullying is a real and serious problem in many schools, and self-defense training can help children feel less afraid in threatening situations. Moreover, self-defense training can make children safer by teaching them practical strategies to use if trapped or attacked, even by a much larger person.
Fitness
Finally, martial arts classes promote fitness through cardiovascular exercise, strength training, stretching, and sometimes deep breathing or meditation exercises. Children who begin training at a young age have the opportunity to develop a great deal of flexibility as well. Children need more exercise than most of them get in their daily lives, and martial arts programs are an alternative to sports teams. Browse the website to learn more about Youth Martial Arts Training in Newton MA.
