Family martial arts classes are great for the modern, fast-paced lifestyle. They allow parents to get their daily dose of exercise and freshen themselves mentally and physically. It is an excellent option for parents who want to work out but cannot leave their children behind. You can’t take a three-year-old to a gym but can attend martial arts classes with them. Parents can learn martial arts alongside their children instead of attending separate classes. They can spend quality time with their children simultaneously and make a few memories.
What are Family Martial Arts?
Family martial arts are classes that teach different forms of self-defense. However, instead of enrolling individual students, they accept families. The parents and their children can learn martial arts together rather than attending separate classes. It boosts the confidence of the children and improves the bonding among family members. Family martial arts programs do not solely focus on teaching self-defense. They are designed to help families grow physically, socially, and emotionally. Instructors work with parents to develop children’s character and teach them self-discipline. Parents can motivate their children and encourage them to overcome barriers.
Clubs, facilities, or gyms offering family martial arts programs may accept children as young as three years. There is generally no upper age limit for parents, and they can participate in a program as long as they are physically fit. Many parents in their 60s enroll in these courses. The schools may require a fitness certificate for elderly participants stating that they don’t have any medical condition and are physically fit for martial arts classes. There is a form or style of martial art that will suit everyone irrespective of their age.
Advantages of Family Martial Arts
Enrolling in a family martial arts program has many benefits.It enables families to utilize their time and effort constructively. Here are a few reasons to consider family martial arts classes.
Spend Time Together
Family martial arts are an alternate hobby for the family. Instead of going to the movies or watching TV, parents and their children learn a new skill. When families spend time together, it increases the bonding between the members of the household. They can share new experiences and create memories for a lifetime. It will encourage children and parents to take up more activities together.
Improve Physical Fitness
Family martial arts improve the cardiovascular and muscular strength of the participants. They incorporate stretching and improve the flexibility of the body. It can reduce the risk of injuries or muscular pain in the long run. Throwing punches and kicks will build muscles and tone them. You will be using every muscle of your body during martial arts. Families, especially children, will find martial arts to be more entertaining as compared to running on a treadmill or going to a gym. They can have fun while getting fit physically.
Meet Other Families
Family martial arts courses provide a great opportunity for families to meet other families. Parents can meet and share experiences with other parents in classes. Children meet other children and can make new friends. Many clubs and facilities that offer classes for family martial arts may organize recreational activities. They may take the participants on hikes and camping, host games, and engage in water sports in addition to providing martial art lessons. It provides a break from the routine and allows the families to have fun in addition to learning martial arts. Children experience nature and the wilds first hand, pulling them away from gadgets and electronics.
Boost Confidence of Children
Family martial arts significantly boost the confidence of children. A child, especially a young one, looks towards their parents for guidance and may not be as comfortable with a stranger. Kids may find unfamiliar environments intimidating, which will negatively impact their performance. They may feel comfortable when their parents learn and perform martial arts with them. It will create a familiar environment. Parents can encourage and motivate their children and lead by example. They may provide positive reinforcement when their child needs the same.
Children who don’t want to attend classes with other children due to peer pressure or some other reason may find family martial arts congenial. It can be beneficial for children who have social anxiety or are shy. Their accomplishments over time in the classes will raise their self-belief. Once a child achieves a belt or rank in martial arts, it will boost their confidence significantly. They will be able to protect themselves if the need arises. It will reflect positively in other spheres of their lives, be it education or sports. The child will feel more assured of themselves and may venture out of their comfort zone more often.
Teach Life Values
Family martial arts teach children various life values. They learn to become dedicated, hard-working, and persistent. These traits will prepare them for the future and help them achieve their goals. Parents can define their objectives in martial art classes and work hard to achieve them. Children will observe them and learn to set goals and follow through with action.
The family may also set goals as a cohesive unit and work together to achieve them. It will impart essential lessons regarding teamwork to teens and young adults. Children will develop respect for their siblings and parents. They will feel inspired as they watch their parents improve their skills and reach their objectives. At the same time, parents themselves re-learn a few things by observing their children. A child may not be motivated by seeing other people perform but can be encouraged when they see their parents engage in arts.
Various clubs, gyms, and schools organize family martial arts classes. Search for such establishments and compare their programs and cost. Many clubs and facilities specializing in family martial arts classes may hold an introductory session for new participants. They explain the different programs hosted by them and the progression requirements. Parents can attend an introductory session at various schools to determine the best family martial arts class for their family.
