2. • Children and adolescents today often
grow up seeing fictionalized
representations of martial artists on
television, in the movies, and on the
Internet. These fictional versions use
violence to defeat antagonists and save
the day. However, in real life, martial
arts center on self-control versus
unrestrained aggression, and children
who take lessons in the sport learn this
valuable skill and its overall importance
to success in life.
3. • Martial arts training also provides a
number of other benefits to young
children as well as teenagers. For one,
they develop self-confidence as well as
respect for one another and their elders.
They hone their focus and ability to
concentrate; they learn critical
leadership and social skills; and they
find relief from stress. Kids who do not
prefer team sports may find the activity
more suited to their mental and physical
strengths too. Furthermore, children with
learning difficulties and hyperactivity
disorders, such as Attention Deficit
Disorder, specifically benefit from
martial arts because of the structured
training approach involved in the sport’s
classes.
4. • About the Author:
A practitioner of mixed martial arts, Todd
Bernier of Chicago attends Degerberg
Academy Martial Arts, where he is working
toward a black belt.
