2 minute read
3 Key Benefits of Martial Arts Training for Children
Written by Expert Contributor Lou Marvil, Owner of Level Up Black Belt Academy
The Martial Arts provide children with many outstanding benefits. When you think of Martial Arts you may envision the action scenes from television and movies, the violence of the UFC or maybe you see it as a means of self-protection. While these are a part of Martial Arts that are popularized through the media, the true benefits are what lie under the surface. By learning Martial Arts from a reputable instructor and studio that specializes in children’s instruction, the following benefits will permeate all areas of a child’s life:
Self-Confidence
This is a character trait that is gained by accomplishing small goals that lead towards a long-term goal. Children need to experience the powerful feeling of success, like attaining goals to take on bigger challenges. These small successes serve as stepping stones that eventually develop into massive self-confidence. The curriculum is broken down to allow beginner students the ability to experience success and increase the challenge each time a new rank is earned. Martial Arts will provide a student with 12 belt advancements, from white belt through black belt, that serve as these successes.
Fitness
Getting kids up and moving is an important part of keeping them healthy and fit. Martial Arts classes provide physical training that will increase the student’s strength, endurance and flexibility. These are important aspects that will improve a child’s performance in other sports as well. Martial Arts promotes heart-healthy children and is a fantastic way to get them off the couch and their electronic devices.
Concentration
This is a key part of Martial Arts training that is beneficial to every aspect of a child’s life. Kids are told they need to focus or concentrate at school and home but many times have never learned how to make the improvement.
Teach Children the 3 Rules of Concentration:
1. Focus Your Eyes: When someone is speaking, maintain eye contact with them to show you are listening.
2. Focus Your Mind: Think about what is being said and how it applies to you and how you are going to use the information.
3. Focus Your Body: Keep your body still and under control.
The above three Rules of Focus can be applied to every area of life. For example, a child playing baseball needs to keep their eyes on the ball, think about what they are going to do with the ball and then have their body execute the catch, throw or swing with accuracy.
Martial Arts training is one of the most beneficial things you will ever do for your child. Make sure they reach their black belt. This is a highly revered accomplishment on a college application or a job resume. Check out the schools in your area, speak with the instructor, and speak with parents at the school. If a school will not allow you to do those things, move on.
Expert Contributor Lou Marvil, Owner of Level Up Black Belt Academy
LEVEL UP BLACK BELT ACADEMY
Martial Arts Programs for Children & Adults • Fitness Kickboxing training for adults • Gain improved flexibility, strength, confidence & overall well-being • Train with Newtown Square’s Grand Master & Martial Arts Champion
610-355-1960
3609 Chapel Road, Newtown Square
www.LevelUpBlackBeltAcademy.com
