Do you think kids benefit from Martial Arts?
By jenseyedea
@jenseyedea (579)
United States
March 24, 2007 7:58pm CST
My son is 6 years old and has been in karate since he was four. I have seen some really great things happen from implementing this sport into his life. It is more than a sport actually to us, it is a way of life. He trains up to 8 hours a week, and he could go more. He loves it. I have even had teachers compliment his attitude and his behavior in the classroom. He competes in tournaments in the regional area. He has won several first place awards. I just was wondering what some of you thought about putting children into this at such young ages. I see it as beneficial, but have had other people tell me it is to much. But what I think many of them mean, is that they have to make the time for their children. It is a lot of dedication on behalf of the parents. So anyway, just wondered what your thoughts, experiences, etc have been. Thanks for sharing. :)
2 people like this
4 responses
@gypsylady28 (945)
• United States
25 Mar 07
Me and my husband have discussed letting our children get involved in martial arts. At this time we do not have the money to enroll both, but have both agreed that when we do, we will let them decide if they want to do it. I think they can learn not only to defend themselves, but also they can learn patience, self control, and discipline from it.
1 person likes this
@jenseyedea (579)
• United States
25 Mar 07
Yes it is quite exspensive...but well worth it. You are right they do learn a lot from it. I hope you are able to give it a try soon. Best of luck to you. :)
1 person likes this
@patgalca (18180)
• Orangeville, Ontario
25 Mar 07
It is healthy for the mind and body. It gives them discipline. Competing helps them learn in so many ways. My daughter is 13 and has a red belt in Taekwondo. I have been to two of her tournaments and she was injured both times. I wanted to go to her but my husband said as long as she was in the circle we are not allowed. Besides, it is good for her. It teaches her to be tough. My daughter is one tough dudette! She is very strong, very competitive, loves all types of sports and spends no time on the computer or playing video games. She signs up for sports she knows she's not good in (cross country meet) because, as she says, it's better than hanging out on street corners.
The only downfall is the cost. Martial Arts costs a bleepin' fortune! Every time they test for a belt you have to pay. It started at $35. When she tests for Black Belt it is $500! And then there are the tournaments... one was an overnighter out of town, but it was fun, one time thing. She has lots of trophies and medals. It gives her great pride.
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@jenseyedea (579)
• United States
25 Mar 07
The way my sons dojo is run we also pay for belt testing as wll as many other costs. The monthly fees are outrageous at times. Plus the uniforms, and everything else. My son went through a tigers class from white to black belt. Now my little guy is in the adult class and is a green belt. He is also in black belt club, so he is doing everything he can to get that black belt. :) I am glad you support your child. I wish more parents would really consider martial arts for their children.
1 person likes this
@coolseeds (3919)
• United States
25 Mar 07
It is better than letting him play video games and a lot healthier. I practiced martial arts when I was younger. It was good for the mind and body. It is an excellent way to stay in shape when the other sports are out of season as well.
@jenseyedea (579)
• United States
25 Mar 07
Yes I agee with that. He is physically fit. It is something that I have seen that he cares about. He loves to show others his ability and loves it when other people get involved. He is now into weapons training, and XMA. So that means more responsibility...but as long as he enjoys it I will support him. Thanks for posting.
1 person likes this
@nelly5 (1424)
• United States
25 Mar 07
Well since none of my children have ever been involved in martial arts, I guess I don't really know how beneficial it is or could be. I do know (from you) how time consuming it is and how much of a dedication there has to be from the children and the parents. Your statement about parents saying that it is too much sounds like something I would say...lol I don't believe that it is b/c parents don't want to make time for their children...well okay, you are right that some don't want to, but I know that when I am working and have to come home, get dinner, do laundry, help with homework and whatever else may come up..such as other sports the other kids play or other every day events..it does seem like martial arts would be too much. I know that when I was working full-time and having to run kids around every night is a lot when there is only one parent at home in the evening. But luckily I am not there right now..but it will be happening soon, when my job comes..lol Anyhow, this is a good post, I will be checking back to see what others have to say about it. Love ya and chat with you later. *hugs to ya*
@jenseyedea (579)
• United States
25 Mar 07
Thanks for posting. I know your kids would love to come sometime with Kayden. Just let me know when...lol :) Thanks for posting. Love Ya
1 person likes this
