Parents across the country are increasingly interested in the benefits of enrolling their children in a high-quality martial arts program. Character development and physical fitness are becoming more important now than ever. This is especially true in the Virginia cities of Fredericksburg, Stafford, and Spotsylvania. Before you rush out and sign your child up for lessons, there are a couple of things you need to know. If you follow the steps outlined below; You will save time, money and a lot of frustration.
First, not all martial arts programs are the same. Find a reputable program in your area and ask if you can bring your child to observe a class. Most places won’t mind. As you observe the class, carefully observe the highest-ranking students in the program. Are they acting the way you want your child to act? Do they show respect for the teacher and other students? How does the teacher interact with the students? These are all very important things. Older children should model the way you want your child to act.
Second, most martial arts schools offer a free or low-risk trial for new students to come experience the program before joining. This is a great way to get a “feel” for the school, the instructor, and the program before making long-term commitments.
Third, determine what you want from the program. A parent looking for an activity between soccer and football will need something different than a parent truly looking to develop confidence, character, and discipline. Not all programs are the same. Determine what your goal is and then find the school that can help you achieve it.
Martial arts is not just about fighting. Some of the real benefits of a good martial arts program for kids are:
• Greater confidence
• Greater self-esteem
• Improved motor function
• Better balance
• Excellent social skills
• Good discipline
• Improved work ethic
• Establishment of learning objectives
• Better focus at school
There are many other benefits of martial arts training as well. Martial arts will make you more flexible, stronger; it will improve your coordination and develop your cardiovascular system, among other things. Most importantly, your child will have fun learning the art itself.
And the style? There is no right or wrong style. It is what you think is important. If you are looking for sports or self defense, style could be an important part of your selection process. If you’re looking to give your 8-year-old more confidence, or get him to take on the bully at school, then I would focus less on kicking and punching and more on mental skills. There are so many different styles, systems, and schools that you shouldn’t have a problem finding a good one in your area.