Martial Arts??

morrismomaof2 · **Martial Arts??**

Hey all my ds has expressed some interest in doing martial arts but I know nothing about all the different types that are out there and how much they cost. I did check through our city to see if they offered classes for ds age but they didnt. Are any of your children in martial arts and if so which type? Also, did you go to the place before enrolling them and check it out and talk w/ the instructors and see how things work? We have a few places here that I am going to check out in the next week or so. This is kinda of a new thing for us since ds usually does sports and stuff through the YMCA or the city but has told us that he just doesnt like the competiveness of team sports, which is fine. I have also heard that martial arts is good for builing self confidence and self esteem. Hopefully this is true b/c really needs a boost right now. TIA for the info.

blessed_with_6 · 02-21-2007, 01:05 PM

My own kids don't do them, but I do know a friend who checked into this type of thing a good bit. He and his wife actually joined in, since the kids enjoyed it so much! They do "Taekwondo". (and I have no idea on the spelling!) They said they liked the non-violence of it better. It offered more self control than others did, was easy for all of them to start, regardless of age, size, shape, etc., too. HTH!

Happymom · 02-21-2007, 01:08 PM

My kids have done taekwando for the past 3 years. Most different schools will let you try one or two sessions before you make a commitment. I am supposed to be starting too, but have been having day care issues. Hopefully I can start tomorrow. It is a great sport. It teaches respect, discipline, self defense and requires you to be in good physical shape (why I am starting!) Call around to the schools near you and ask some questions. Ask if they have any free trial lessons to see if your son clicks with they class or not.

morrismomaof2 · 02-21-2007, 01:30 PM

Thank you! I did find a local place in the phone book that has a website so I was checking that out and all their instructors are certified. They offer lots of classes every week and a mixed class that is age 7 and up including adults which is one of the things i was looking for. My parents have expressed interest in taking the classes w/ ds and possibly dh and I so this is good. I am going to be calling for pricing today and then going in later this week w/ ds to get a feel for the place. Thanks again ladies!

AyeOhKay · 02-21-2007, 01:35 PM

Our whole family is involved in the martial arts and LOVE it! It has been a wonderful family and individual activity for each of us. I would encourage you to read the following two articles:

http://www.healthatoz.com/healthatoz...artialarts.jsp

http://www.parentspress.com/ffmartialarts.html

The first article discusses the basic types of martial arts and their benefits. While the second article goes into more detail about what things to look for and consider in a school. I would be very thorough if you have a lot of options in your area. Sit in on some classes and talk to a lot of instructors AND parents at the schools.

We study Ryukyu Kempo karate because we are very concerned about self-defense. We wanted it to be a practical and useful art for our family. My kids know what to do in virtually any abduction, confrontational situation. My 5-year old knows how to fight against an adult.

Now, I'm not saying that I would recommend this type of martial art for everyone. It just depends on what you want out of the program. All martial arts offer something very different. But, they all offer discipline, respect, self-worth, and confidence - not to mention the physical activity. I honestly believe there is a martial art for everyone, because there is such a variety! So, definitely do your research.

If I can be of any further help, feel free to PM me.

Happymom · 02-21-2007, 01:35 PM

Alot of places have family pricing! So I pay the rate for 3 or more family members, since there are 5 of us doing it, it is a really good price!!!

evannlivsmom · 02-21-2007, 04:08 PM

My ds has been in Tae Kwon Do for 3 years now, he just turned 6. He has done quite well, and is about to take his assistant black belt test which just blows my mind! He attends a private school that specializes in Tae Kwon Do and Hae Dong (sp) That's with swords, which is pretty cool to watch. Anyway, his class is $100 a month, and fortunately, my inlaws pay for it, so the burden is off us. I really think my ds has gotten alot out of being involved in martial arts. He is learning self discipline, not to mention burning some energy! He has never tried to use it outside of the class, which was a concern of mine, but in 3 years, no probs. I would definately check into it, they also have classes through the county parks and rec program in my area, maybe check out yours?