The Benefits of Martial Arts for Children

It is well established that martial arts training can benefit children in many ways. The discipline and sense of belonging can help promote focus, discipline, better grades in school and self-esteem. A uniformed martial arts program makes young people feel a sense of being part of a team, striving for self-improvement and to be the best people that they can be.

That quest for the black belt that hangs up on the wall at one’s dojo, is a quest that can take years to achieve. The black belt itself is a symbol of a future hero that the student can be. It is this quest that helps the student feel pride and a sense of desire to do what teachers and parents ask. We create an image for ourselves of what a black belt is and the striving for that image is what helps to shape martial arts students into the leaders of tomorrow..

Children see the martial artist as the wise master who helps those in need, is soft spoken, humble and an all around good person. The martial arts teacher provides a role model of behavior that is moral and upright. The teacher wields great power and the children who train stand in awe of the things the teacher can do. But, the teacher is also humble and kind, treating students with respect and guiding them on their own journey of discovery and skill development in the martial arts. The teacher is honest and often a role model in the community as well. Even though the teacher has trained for years in the ways of the warrior, they are not a bully..

Cultivating this sense of pride and seeing the desire and growth in my own students is what drives me to do what I do. The martial arts have given so much to me in the way of confidence, self-esteem and courage that I love to see that knowledge passing on to the next generation. A good martial arts program can help any child, those with discipline problems or wonderful students to reach beyond themselves and achieve their own personal potential. See you next month.