Philip and Raylan have been taking karate classes since they were four and two and a half. Believe me when I say there is seriously nothing cuter than a preschooler dressed in a tiny karate uniform!

Over the past five years, I’ve learned first-hand the benefits of martial arts classes for them. From increasing physical strength and fitness to offering psychological and mental health benefits, there’s a lot that martial arts can do for your little one.

As a martial arts instructor myself, my sons were born into it. However, we didn’t make them do it. They wanted it themselves. Next to karate they are involved in other fun activities and have been in gymnastics for past 5 years as well.

No matter which sport you choose, if you’re considering introducing your child to some kind of martial arts training, read on to learn the top ways that martial arts can benefit him or her.

1. Fitness Made Fun

We know that kids are spending more time online or in front of screens than ever before, and getting enough physical activity can be an issue. Enrolling your little one in a martial arts class is a great way to combine physical exercise and fun in one. Martial arts will help tone and strengthen muscles, enhance speed and agility, increase endurance, flexibility, coordination and balance, and enhance your child’s physical development in many ways.

2. Boost Confidence

Like many other sports, getting involved in martial arts will also have a positive impact on your child’s mental well being. Participating in a physically and mentally demanding activity like martial arts can help boost your kid’s confidence level and teach them self-discipline and self-reliance. In an culture that tends to emphasize superficial appearances over substance, martial arts can help your child become more grounded and centered.

3. Learn Self-Defense

There’s a different kind of confidence that comes with knowing you can defend yourself. Particularly as the father of boys. Boys get naturally into more troubles than girls. I want to equip them with the strength and skills to protect themselves. Once your child learns self-defense techniques they’ll feel more secure, more confident, and so will you!

4. Build Social Skills

Neighbourhood martial arts classes typically bring together kids from all different backgrounds, and learning how to cooperate and work with a diverse group of peers can help your child develop empathy and improve their social skills. In addition to fostering understanding and acceptance of others, martial arts education also focuses on teaching discipline and respect for others.

5. Healthy Competition

Martial arts training will help your child push him or herself to be the best they can be. Earning those belts (or certificates, trophies, etc.) is a potent motivator to keep working hard and improving their skills. And if your child advances to the point of entering competitions, they’ll learn to play by the rules as well as how to win or lose with grace.

6. Burn Extra Energy

One final benefit of martial arts training? Far from encouraging aggression, martial arts classes provide a controlled and healthy environment for growing children to burn off some of that excess energy and help them feel more focused. If you have an active, spirited child, you know exactly what I’m talking about!

If you would like more information about our Martial Arts Program don’t hesitate to call us or text at 469-444-0246.

Or get your child started today with our free trial.