The Benefits of Learning Karate for Kids

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Karate, the ancient Japanese martial art deriving its name from the phrase “empty hand” is a popular form of exercise, a highly respected sport, and often the basis of many self-defense courses. Getting children involved in this kind of activity can be beneficial for a number of reasons. Consider these benefits of learning Karate for children and get your kids involved sooner rather than later.

1. Good Exercise
   There are many aspects to the study of Karate or any other martial art, but like all others, Karate is first and foremost a physical activity. People all over the world, particularly in America, are leading increasingly sedentary lifestyles that lead to obesity and a number of health problems. Giving your children regular exercise will keep them active and discourage the tendency for laziness. One of the many rewards of martial arts study is a happier, healthier, longer life resulting from good exercise.
2. Healthy Competition
   We live in a world that rewards the ambitious. Martial arts classes offer an outlet for children to compete in a friendly environment, building their competitive spirit in a healthy way. They will learn how to win graciously, accept loss modestly, and most important of all–work hard to become the best. The greatest achievements in history have come form those who strive for perfection. Studying karate will instill a healthy competitive spirit that will drive them to do their best in all pursuits.
3. Self Defense
   Any competent martial arts instructor will tell you right from the start that the purpose of martial arts study is not to learn how to fight. In fact, many martial arts techniques are highly impractical for real world applications. Physical conflicts don’t usually pan out the way you see in movies. However, studying martial arts gives children an opportunity to develop both physically and mentally into confident people who are capable of defending themselves when the need arises. Martial arts classes are much more than self-defense, but the ability to carry oneself through situations confidently and unafraid is one of the best side-effects of this kind of study.
4. Building Character
   One of the things martial arts instructors emphasize, even more than the physical aspect of learning the techniques, is the character-building that a study of martial arts brings. The tenets of many a martial art include integrity, perseverance, self-control, and a spirit of helping others–all healthy values to instill in children at an early age. Children who grow up with a background in martial arts get into the good habit of cultivating these values in themselves and those around them.
5. Sense of Achievement
   When the kids start to progress to the more advanced levels in their classes, earning the many colored martial arts belts, they will get a sense of achievement that is necessary for youngsters in their formative years. The feeling of having accomplished something through tireless effort and personal dedication is one of the greatest feelings in the world, and it will help your children grow into fine upstanding young men and women.