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self defense martial arts

6 Self Defense Martial Arts Classes For Kids

Martial arts are an excellent way for children to stay in shape, learn self-discipline, teamwork, and self-defense, as well as build friendships. If a youngster expresses an interest in learning self defense martial arts, don’t be afraid to say yes.

However, it might be difficult for a parent to choose the right martial arts class for their child. Plenty of schools compete for attention, all claiming that their particular type of martial arts is the perfect one for children. Furthermore, it’s important to remember that not all martial arts appeal to youngsters.

If you’re interested in enrolling your child in self defense martial arts classes, keep reading! This article will go through six martial arts classes for kids and explain the advantages and skills your child will receive from each one.

Benefits of Martial Arts for Kids

There are plenty of benefits for youngsters who participate in martial arts training. One of the primary advantages is that the lessons they learn during self defense classes can be carried over to other aspects of their lives, like home and school. Here are some of the perks of martial arts for kids:

Maintains a Healthy Body

Getting youngsters involved in physical activity regularly aids in their growth and development. Martial arts are a great way to keep a child healthy and active while also having a blast! Kids can improve their strength, coordination, flexibility, and agility while working out their entire bodies. Because kids will have more energy for learning and other activities as a result of being physically active, they will feel better about their lives overall.

Encourages Self-Discipline

Perfecting one’s technique in self defense martial arts requires a lot of practice of numerous moves. Punching and kicking correctly is the only way for students to progress — and they learn that these achievements can only be attained through consistent practice and self-discipline.

As a physical and mental commitment that demands the complete dedication of both the mind and body, martial arts is more than just a sport. Because of this, a child’s self-discipline learned in martial arts training can be transferred to other aspects of their personal life.

Knowledge of Self-Defense

Martial arts are built on the foundation of peaceful conflict resolution. However, there are times when self-defense might well be required. Although we pray that they never have to use it, knowing how to defend oneself can save a child’s life. Basic self-defense skills can equip kids with the skills they need to protect themselves in a dangerous situation.

Builds Friendships

Martial arts are a fantastic way for kids to meet new people while learning the ropes, much like team sports. Meeting new friends may inspire a child to continue attending self defense classes and urge one another to give it their all and improve.

Promotes Teamwork

Although martial arts training is primarily a solo endeavor, there are some practices and activities that involve teamwork. This is among martial arts’ numerous social opportunities. To improve one’s ability to work together, students can form groups and practice a variety of kicks and punches. By learning this way, children are taught how to engage in constructive social interactions in school and other settings

What Are the Best Martial Arts for Kids To Learn?

Children can pick from a wide variety of self defense martial arts styles, but the best one will rely on what they will gain from the activity. Distinct disciplines demand different talents and strategies to succeed. Understanding each martial arts style and philosophy is the first step towards finding the perfect fit.

  1. Tae Kwon Do

One of the first styles that new martial arts parents see is Taekwondo, a Korean style renowned for its powerful kicks. Aside from being an official sport in the Olympics, Taekwondo is a fantastic introduction to martial arts for kids because it combines traditional principles and contemporary athletic techniques. This martial arts class is well-liked by children since it teaches them various interesting moves. Since the term “Tae Kwon Do” literally means “the way of the foot and the fist” in Korean, the focus is primarily on kicks, while punches are also taught in certain forms.

Patience and self-control are two of Tae Kwon Do’s most valuable principles. As a way of life that emphasizes physical, mental, and spiritual unity, it is often regarded as a means of improving one’s spirit and quality of life.

  1. Karate

Kids love karate because it’s a fun and safe style of martial arts. If a child likes to get a full-body workout while having a lot of fun, this is the martial arts style for them. As a weaponless self-defense system, karate was developed in Okinawa, Japan, when weapons were outlawed, and its name translates to “empty hands.” It is widely practiced around the world, with dojos in almost every major city. Plenty of results will surely pop up by searching for “karate for kids near me.” 

Karate is a martial art that emphasizes self-improvement via training, just like any other traditional martial art. A child can learn everything they need to know about discipline, integrity, and happiness by going into the karate dojo. Full-body actions are used in karate, and training concentrates on blocks, blows, evasions, and counterattacks.

  1. Wrestling

Wrestling is among the most challenging and time-honored forms of martial arts in existence. This martial art is a popular sport in both western and eastern countries. Regardless of a child’s height or weight, they can learn to wrestle because there are numerous styles to choose from. Kids can wrestle in high school or college if they begin training at a young age.

As a martial art, wrestling is known for its grappling techniques. Takedowns, throws, clinch fighting, and joint locks are among the techniques youngsters will learn in wrestling classes. Since it is among the most physically and mentally challenging types of martial arts, children will gain not only physical strength and stamina but also perseverance and self-confidence.

  1. Judo

Japanese Judo was the first martial art from the East featured in the modern Olympic games, focusing primarily on takedowns and throws and incorporating locks and submissions. It’s an excellent martial art for teaching kids how to command their bodies to control their opponents.

The martial art is grounded in rich culture and history that will guide youngsters to grow into well-rounded individuals. It promotes a rigorous training regimen and teaches students the value of putting in the work to attain one’s objectives.

  1. Muay Thai

Muay Thai is a terrific martial art for children. It’s known as “the art of the eight limbs” because students are taught to protect themselves using eight points of contact, including their arms, forearms, elbows, legs, knees, and shins. It is also among the simplest martial arts to learn because it provides an excellent stand-up striking style without requiring kids to memorize a lot of complex motions. The martial art includes grappling and striking methods that blend together effortlessly.

Children will acquire self-control as Muay Thai students since they spar carefully and deliberately. They will also learn to develop personal objectives rather than working toward pre-determined targets because martial arts does not have a ranking system.

  1. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

As a martial art, Brazilian jiu-jitsu or BJJ is frequently regarded as the safest for children since the focus is on grappling rather than striking. Trainees learn how to execute a takedown using wrestling and judo techniques. They use joint locks and chokeholds to subdue their partner once they’re on the ground.

Compared to kicks and punches, grappling is less dangerous. For example, when students place their partner in an armbar, they only have to tap to be released from the hold. So, unlike certain striking styles, BJJ is less taxing on the body over time.

BJJ helps children learn patience and problem-solving skills by challenging them to find ways to avoid getting submitted while attempting to tap out their sparring partners.

The Bottomline

When it comes to choosing a martial art class for children, there is no one-size-fits-all discipline. If a child doesn’t like the first martial art style they encounter, there are many other options out there for them to explore. Enrolling kids in a discipline they are interested in will allow them to gain the various advantages that come with learning that martial art. Children can stay in shape and develop self-control, teamwork, and self-defense skills while making new friends through martial arts. They can then apply what they’ve learned in martial arts lessons into their daily lives, including at home and in the classroom. 

Call us today to sign your kids up for a free week-long trial period to learn the basics of martial arts.

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