Karate, like other forms of Martial arts, is an excellent means to keep you physically strong, mentally focussed and become a better human being. Below we list some reasons why children should be encouraged to practice martial arts like Karate.
Fights childhood obesity
In today’s age, kids are becoming video game addicts and shunning outdoor activities. Combined with the unhealthy diets and increasing pollution in the environment, childhood obesity and the diseases that follow it, is fast becoming our biggest challenge. Martial art forms like karate offers an avenue for kids to get moving and become more active and fit. Kicks, punches and other moves strengthens the child’s body and fight obesity.
Sharpens brain and increases focus
karate not only makes body tough but also strengthens the mind. It develops composure, helps gain clearer thought process, get deeper insight into one’s mental capabilities and gain more self-confidence. Karate is all about discipline, and discipline is all about training the mind. Bruce Lee once said that behind all the punches and the kicks, a true martial artist learns to sit with himself and see where his weaknesses are. Children benefit greatly from this, as they learn to train their mind at an early age.
Gain self confidence and learn humility
Participating in Karate tournaments and competitions helps a child explore avenues where he can develop his self-confidence. A child learns to appreciate the fact that skills and mental toughness are more important than being only physically superior to the opponent. This aspect of karate training teaches children humility.
Learns to take hits
Most important lesson a child has to learn is how to bounce back after being hit. Whether it is a physical challenge or emotional setback in life, a person who can take problems head on and keep moving forward is the one who can progress. Martial art forms like karate play a huge role in preparing the child for this. Here the child learns not only to win, but also fail with equal dignity, which helps in improving the weak areas and come back strong. Half of karate is about hitting and the rest is about learning to get hit.
