Karate is much, much more than punching and kicking the air. The sport has proven benefits that go well beyond that obvious physical fitness boost. Regular practice of karate affects the body, the mind, and the soul.
Because it is partially based in Eastern philosophy, a regular karate practice will give your child a heightened sense of self-awareness and peer-awareness, as well as a boost in self-confidence. This is because karate teaches that each individual is just that; striving to achieve the task at hand regardless of where the others around them sit on the bell curve. Through a balanced individual practice within a group, your child will also learn self-discipline and patience. Karate has been found to do wonders in aggressive kids and children with ADHD not only because it forces them to learn to be patient, but it is also a safe contained environment in which to release their aggression. In all students, regular karate practice helps to balance and regulate mood. Most karate students get better grades in school than their inactive peers and approach studies both in the karate studio and in the classroom with a better attitude.
If these mental benefits aren't enough to enroll your son or daughter at the nearest dojo today, the health benefits are also innumerable. Karate teaches the body strength and flexibility while balancing organ function. Giving children a regular work-out schedule at a young age teaches them a valuable life-skill. Sparring will teach your child self-defense while strengthening his or her body. As with many sports, at some point your child will hit a wall and think to him or herself: "It's too hard, I can't do it." But the body is stronger than the mind.