by Jon Crosby

Created on: October 24, 2008   Last Updated: October 30, 2008

All traditional martial arts are excellent for children. There is no one art that is "better." The key is to find the best instructor, one who relates well with children, can serve as a positive role model, and can instill the positive values that traditional martial arts are built on. Teaching children requires patience, gentleness, exceptional communications skills (geared to the particular age group), and a solid understanding of the teaching methodologies that are most effective for children. When I speak of traditional martial arts, I am referring to programs that promote traditional customs and courtesies, in contrast to some programs that essentially teach brawling.

Historically, traditional martial arts training could be a very humbling experience. It was common for instructors to run their classes with an iron hand, wielding what we called "dojo discipline." For example, if a student was perceived to be inattentive, disruptive, or simply performed a technique improperly, they might be punished or made an example of. I cannot recall the number of times I found myself doing knuckle push-ups, or had my legs swept from under me because my stance was too narrow. Now days, progressive instructors tend to use positive reenforcement - making students feel good about themselves, in contrast to feeling like the class goat. I recommend finding an instructor who is somewhere in between - is strict, demanding compliance with dojo rules (for the sake of safety and respect), but who also has compassion for his students.

A question that I am often asked is whether children should be taught practical self-defense as a adjunct to their traditional martial arts training. I believe that the types of self-defense techniques taught must be geared to the age and level of maturity of the student. While it would be generally inappropriate to teach children to deliver potentially lethal blows (i.e. to the eyes, throat, etc.), it makes good sense to teach them methods of avoidance (of potentially dangerous situations), and how to utilize non-lethal techniques as a last resort.

Another question that I am often asked is whether it is necessary for children to compete in tournaments. The answer is "no." For example, many styles of traditional Karate (known as "Karate-do") never compete in formal tournaments. Non-competitive programs usually employ various drill training methods during classes to develop the desired skills and abilities. Even Judo, which is both a martial art and Olympic Sport, enables students to progress through the ranks without having to compete. The fact is, there is a vast difference between sport and traditional martial arts. While sport competition is a terrific activity, not everyone is a competitor. Whether competition is a requirement for participation and/or rank advancement, is another important consideration when considering a martial arts program.

Prior to signing a long-term contract at any martial arts school, I recommend taking a few complimentary classes to get a perspective on what is being taught, the teaching abilities of the instructor, and the instructor's personality. Some schools offer a six week program for a nominal fee, that usually includes a uniform. This is good way to get a real feel for the art, versus taking just one class. Another option is to simply visit one or more schools and watch their classes. If cost is a consideration, often city or county parks and recreation departments offer inexpensive martial arts classes. Many dedicated martial artists teach in these programs simply for the love of the art.

No matter which martial art you choose, it can be a wonderful, enriching, experience. It has been for me - I've been practicing for 40 years!

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