Breaking down the best martial arts for kids of all ages
As a parent, you want your child to learn valuable life skills that will help them navigate the world with confidence and resilience — but this is easier said than done.
Especially in today’s fast-moving world, children are facing greater risks of anxiety and uncertainty than ever before. One powerful way to equip your child with lifelong skills and values is by enrolling them in martial arts classes.
Personally, I started martial arts when I was six years old, and I don’t know where I would have been without it. Martial arts gave me the strength to tackle my life with resolve and determination, and the self-confidence to speak my truth and face the world head-on.
While training and shooting a documentary at China’s Shaolin Temple, I got to meet the next generation of Shaolin monks!
These things can sound like simple truisms, but martial arts children and parents will attest to these truths over and over. And as a former martial arts instructor, I’ve seen the benefits kids experience from both sides.
Martial arts give children more than just self-defense skills — they develop discipline and focus, physical awareness, and self-esteem. But with so many different styles to choose from, it can be challenging to know which are the best martial arts for kids. That’s why I’ve put together this article, with some key ideas and quotes from experts.
6 Best Martial Arts for Kids
1. Taekwondo
Taekwondo is one of the most popular martial arts, especially with children. Taekwondo classes are high-energy and fast-paced, making them perfect for kids who have lots of energy to burn. The primary techniques taught in Taekwondo classes are lightning-fast kicks, which can help children develop balance, coordination, and agility. The jumping, spinning moves are exciting enough to hold children’s attention.
Taekwondo also emphasizes respect, discipline, and perseverance, which are valuable life skills that will serve your child well as they grow up.
“Taekwondo is a fantastic way to develop physical fitness, coordination, and agility in children,” says the “Father of American Taekwondo” Grandmaster Jhoon Rhee. “It’s also an excellent way to build confidence and self-esteem.”
2. Karate
Karate is one of the most popular martial arts for children, and for a good reason. Karate classes are generally well-structured, and the techniques taught are easy to learn and understand. Karate focuses on developing discipline, self-control, and respect for oneself and others. It is an excellent choice for kids who are shy or lacking confidence because it encourages them to speak up and assert themselves. Karate is also a great workout, and children will see improvements in their physical fitness as they progress through the ranks.
“Karate is not just about fighting; it’s about building character,” says Sensei Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shotokan Karate. “It teaches children the values of respect, humility, and perseverance.”
3. Wrestling
Wrestling is another excellent martial art for children because it teaches important skills such as body control, balance, and agility. It’s also got a wide athletic infrastructure behind it, so if your child really enjoys it, they could compete all the way through high school and university teams.
In addition to these benefits, wrestling can also be a great way for children to develop self-defense skills and improve their overall physical health. The sport requires a lot of strength and endurance, so children who participate in wrestling can expect to see improvements in their muscle tone, cardiovascular health, and flexibility.
“Wrestling is a great sport for kids because it teaches them about hard work, dedication, and perseverance,” says legendary wrestling coach and Olympic gold medalist Dan Gable. “It helps them build self-confidence, discipline, and mental toughness.”
4. Judo
Judo is a martial art that focuses on grappling and throwing techniques. Judo classes are great for kids who enjoy hands-on activities and like to learn by doing. Judo is an excellent choice for children who are not particularly athletic because it does not require a lot of physical strength or endurance. Instead, Judo emphasizes technique and leverage, which means that even smaller children can learn to take down larger opponents. Judo also teaches children how to fall safely, which is a valuable skill that can prevent injuries in other sports and activities.
“Judo is a great way to teach children how to think on their feet and react to changing situations,” says Sensei Hideharu Igaki of the world-famous Kodokan Judo Institute. “It helps them develop quick reflexes, spatial awareness, and problem-solving skills.”
5. Kung Fu
Kung Fu is a Chinese martial art that has been around for thousands of years. It’s a great style for kids who want to learn a wide variety of techniques, including kicks, punches, blocks, and throws. Kung Fu emphasizes fluidity and grace, which can help children develop balance, coordination, and agility. Some schools also offer training in weapons like swords and staffs, which kids tend to find really exciting.
Kung Fu also teaches children how to focus their minds and bodies, which can help them achieve success in other areas of life — in fact, the mystery and magic surrounding kung fu can really resonate with children. It definitely did with me!
“Kung Fu is not just about physical strength; it’s about developing the mind, body, and spirit,” says Shaolin monk Shi Yan Ming, founder of the USA Shaolin Temple. “It teaches children the values of patience, perseverance, and compassion.”
6. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art that focuses on ground fighting and submission holds. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes are perfect for kids who enjoy wrestling or grappling and like to get up close and personal with their opponents. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu emphasizes technique over brute strength, which means that even smaller children can learn to defeat larger opponents. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu also teaches children how to defend themselves in real-world situations, which can be invaluable in case of bullying or other forms of physical assault.
“Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a gentle art that teaches children how to defend themselves without resorting to violence,” says Professor Royler Gracie of the legendary Gracie jiujitsu family. “It also helps them develop self-control, humility, and a strong work ethic.”
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In conclusion, there are many different martial arts styles to choose from, and the best martial arts for kids will always depend on their own unique personality, interests, and goals. Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wrestling, and Kung Fu are all great options that can provide your child with valuable life skills, improve their physical fitness, and boost their self-esteem.
Regardless of which martial art you choose, enrolling your child in martial arts classes is an excellent way to give them a fun and rewarding activity that will benefit them for years to come.
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