Martial arts offer numerous benefits for kids - including physical fitness, self-discipline, confidence, and self-defense skills. If you're considering enrolling your child in a martial arts program, it's essential to choose the right discipline. In this blog post, we'll introduce you to the top 5 martial arts for kids, highlighting their origins, skills learned, and estimated costs to help you make an informed decision as a parent.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) originated in Brazil and evolved from traditional Japanese Jiu Jitsu. The primary objective of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is to enable a smaller, weaker individual to defend themselves effectively against a larger, stronger opponent through the use of leverage, technique, and submission holds. BJJ focuses on ground fighting, emphasizing grappling and submission techniques to control an opponent.
BJJ emphasizes leverage and technique rather than relying on strength. Empowering kids to find ways to face challenges using their physical and mental abilities. This provides them controlled situations to remain calm under pressure and adapt. Encouraging kids to develop both physical and mental fortitude.
The journey in BJJ promotes self-awareness, self-confidence, and a sense of accomplishment as individuals progress in their skills and overcome challenges.
BJJ memberships typically range from $80 to $200 per month, depending on the location and the reputation of the gym. Additional costs may include uniforms and belt promotions.
Karate originated in Okinawa, Japan, and combines elements of indigenous martial arts with influences from Chinese martial arts. The origin of Karate has many stories and variations. In general, historians attribute the art’s development to Japanese citizens who were not allowed to carry weapons during the feudal era of Japan. The various styles were passed down from family member to family member evolving along the way. Resulting in the many different styles of Karate we know today.
Karate emphasizes striking techniques such as punches, kicks, knee strikes, and elbow strikes. It also focuses on self-defense, discipline, and respect. Primarily focusing on quick and numerous strikes to overwhelm an opponent. Karate does not incorporate grappling or ground work within training like we would see in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
The cost of karate classes varies depending on location and the quality of instruction. On average, monthly fees range from $50 to $150, with additional costs for uniforms and belt testing.
Taekwondo originated in Korea and is known for its dynamic kicking techniques. Taekwondo is primarily a kicking art, often with a greater emphasis on the sport aspect of the art. Taekwondo practitioners tend to fight at an extended range, and keep opponents away with their feet. There is a lot of competition work in many gyms and dojos. Training tends to emphasize sparring, but has forms, and basics are important as well.
Taekwondo emphasizes kicks, punches, and blocks, along with self-defense techniques. The emphasis on kicks promotes balance, body awareness, and core strength for the practitioner. Learning how to create torque and power through the torso resulting in devastating kicks. This core development is key for kids to combat long hours sitting in class or school. Such training also promotes self-control, balance, and mental focus for students.
Monthly fees for taekwondo classes typically range from $50 to $150, similar to karate. Additional expenses may include uniforms, testing fees, and equipment.
Judo was developed in Japan and derived from traditional Japanese martial arts. Judo, which means "gentle way" in Japanese, emphasizes the use of an opponent's strength and momentum against them, rather than relying solely on brute force. The primary goal is to achieve victory through the efficient application of technique, balance, and timing, regardless of an individual's size or physical strength.
Judo primarily focuses on throws, takedowns, and grappling techniques. It also emphasizes discipline, physical fitness, and respect for others. In addition to the physical aspect, Judo also aims to develop mental and moral attributes in its practitioners. The objectives of Judo extend beyond the competition or self-defense arena and encompass personal growth, mutual respect, and the cultivation of a strong character. Judo seeks to instill values such as respect, humility, discipline, and self-confidence in its practitioners.
Judo places significance on the concept of "mutual welfare and benefit." Practitioners are encouraged to use their skills for the betterment of themselves and others, promoting harmony and cooperation both on and off the mat. This principle underlies the ethical and philosophical foundations of judo.
Judo classes usually have a monthly fee ranging from $50 to $150. Uniforms and belt testing fees are additional expenses to consider.
Muay Thai, also known as Thai Boxing, originated in Thailand and is the national sport of the country. Also known as "The Art of Eight Limbs," (fists, elbows, knees, and shins/feet) practitioners use the body's natural weapons effectively to strike, defend, and overpower an opponent.
Muay Thai also focuses on defensive strategies to protect oneself from attacks. The objective is to develop solid defensive skills, including blocking, parrying, and evading strikes, minimizing damage and creating counter-attacking opportunities.
Muay Thai places a strong emphasis on physical fitness and conditioning. Developing endurance, strength, agility, and flexibility to perform effectively during training. It also promotes a culture of respect, discipline, and sportsmanship. The objective is to foster an environment where fighters show respect for their opponents, trainers, and the art itself, adhering to ethical standards and displaying good sportsmanship during training and competitive matches.
Monthly fees for Muay Thai classes can range from $60 to $200. Costs may vary depending on the location, the reputation of the gym, and the level of instruction.
Choosing the right martial art for your child involves considering factors such as skills learned, estimated costs, and your families schedule. Karate, Taekwondo, Judo, Muay Thai, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu are all excellent options for kids, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. It's important to visit local schools, speak with instructors, and observe classes to find the martial art that resonates with your child's interests, learning style, and personal goals.
Remember, the benefits gained from martial arts training extend far beyond physical skills and can positively impact a child's overall development.