A number of parents as well as teachers consider
extracurricular activities to be as important, if not more so, as academics during early schooling years.
Extracurricular activities ensure that students spend their after-class hours learning something new and
positive.
Choices for extracurricular activities are varied, ranging from rigorous sports to soothing music classes.
There is one activity, however, that strikes the perfect balance between physical activity and mental
discipline: martial arts.
Martial arts actually teach non-violence and self-control, contrary to the popular belief of it being a
violent sport. There are several varieties of martial arts such as judo and jujitsu, which are ideal for
children to learn.
Students who participate regularly in extracurricular activities show remarkable improvement in their class
grades. The reason: After-class activities often hone the mental skills of students, thereby allowing them to
perform better in their academics.
Martial arts builds self-discipline and concentration in a child because it involves memorizing a number of
routines and executing them with the utmost concentration. Repeated mental stimulation by performing martial
arts plays a major role in developing an inner sense of discipline and increasing concentration levels.
If a student is not comfortable participating in team sports such as football, basketball or soccer, learning
martial arts may be the ideal option. Although martial arts activities are generally conducted indoors, they
offer similar levels of physical exertion as any other outdoor activity.
There is generally no minimum age requirement for a
child to enroll in martial arts classes. As soon as children begin exhibiting some independence they can be
enrolled in martial arts classes. Joining martial arts classes at an early age offers distinct advantages for
a student.
They are able to grasp and memorize the different techniques and routines easily at an early age.
Furthermore, less academic pressure in early classes ensures that students are able to devote adequate time
to learning the basics of martial arts.
If a child shows signs of aggression, hyperactivity and restlessness, he or she could highly benefit from
joining martial arts classes. The various activities of martial arts are an ideal way to channel the child’s
energy and focus in a positive direction.
In order to get the maximum benefit out of a martial arts class it is important to select the right
instructor. Along with ensuring that the instructor is well-versed in their art, it is important to observe
the way that the instructor handles the class.
An instructor needs to be patient when dealing with slower learners as well as aggressive students. Careful
selection of the right instructor will enable the student to enjoy this activity to the fullest, and to
witness the positive changes it brings into his or her personality.•
Photo courtesy of www.sxc.hu/profile/abcdz2000