My 9yo is starting karate camp for the first time, really trying to see if it is an activity he would enjoy, and to see if we should pursue it in the fall. Just wondering what everyone's experience has been? 9 seems old to just be starting this - I think? He will learn basic moves. He is a bit timid and can be uncoordinated, so did you find this helped your kids improve in those areas? Did it increase confidence, improve body strength? Please fill me in on your experiences, both good and bad. Thanks much!

My kids took taekwando for about 3 years. My dd was 11 when she started. I actually started last year too at age 42. So, no he is definitely not too old. It can be a wonderful thing! Unfortunately we moved and got busy with other things and really do not care for the instructor here. But it is great for self confidence and discipline.

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I have tried for two years in a row to get DD into martial arts program but everywhere around here wants an annual membership! I want her to take a few classes, not join a health club for pete's sake.

I think martial arts are great for kids and adults. I used to do martial arts as my form of exercise. I don't think you're ever too old to start.

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Our family all participates in martial arts. Our oldest started taking classes when he was 4, and the other boys started when they were 2 (they were always at the karate school anyways, so the instructors invited them to start classes earlier than they normally accept students). DH started taking classes about 4 years ago at the age of 34, and I started shortly after that when I was 30. We both have been promoted to assistant instructors at the dojo where we study.

It has been my experience in watching the kids in our school, that age doesn't matter. We have had students start at the age of 2 all the way up to 54! Martial arts is something that anybody can pick up regardless of age, sex, or physical ability. There is a martial art for everyone, IMO. And, karate is a great art for kids to start with.

Martial arts has a way of empowering the shy or timid and building self confidence. It is excellent for building fine motor skills and coordination. However, some kids are initially intimidated by the respect and discipline that some instructors expect. So, don't be surprised if he doesn't like it for this reason. Most kids' instructors do a great job though of making it fun for the kids which helps make them more comfortable.

Martial arts has been a wonderful thing for our kids and family. Our kids are very well-mannered and aware of their surroundings in a public setting because of the things they have learned in karate. They are very aware of the people and things around them. They have learned how to protect and care for their bodies. In our art, we even teach some healing techniques (accupressure-type things) that are a wonderful benefit. Kids that study martial arts for extended periods of time tend to be calmer and more attentive. I think it's a wonderful thing, if it's something the child enjoys doing. But, I've also seen children who were forced to take classes and hated every minute of it. They do not benefit from the classes. It only makes them more reserved.

I think it's wonderful that he can attend a camp to check interest. Our school allows students to take one free class, then pay monthly dues without a commitment. I think it's horrible that many schools ask for a lengthy commitment from new students. Unfortunately, that is becoming more the norm.

I hope he enjoys the camp!

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I am also a big fan of karate - it has really helped my son come out of his shell. The one thing I have learned from other moms at our school is that I really struck the lotto choosing our school over some others in town. They said that at the schools that are tournament-driven are much more stressful. Our school really promotes individual achievement and rewards grades as well as other achievements. You have to do good deeds and they use a lot of positive reinforcement. I love it there and hope he continues for many years. A few weeks ago one of his instructors made black belt and he is so fascinated by that.

Good luck!

I think anytime a child is interested in an extracurricular activity that you can afford and is safe I say go for it. Children in sports tend to have higher self esteem and do better in school. I agree with the others, he is not to young.

My son started karate when he was six and he loved it. He wants to get back into it too, just have to find the money for it!

Thanks, ladies! I knew I could get some wonderful feedback here! It seems my concern about starting at 9 is not a concern! My guy isn't thrilled with going, so we are in the mode of "Let's just try it!!". I will have him do the few weeks in camp, but won't pursue it beyond that if he really hates it! My gut says he will love it after a bit! My goal is to have him stand up for himself (not his strong point) and build confidence and body awareness. It seems I may have found the right activity for this -- until now he has always been in team sports, but I think the time is right for an individual activity!

I think it is a great idea, but I am probably a little bit biased. DH starting taking Tae Kwon Do when he was in his early teens and even went on to own his own school for a while. Now he helps teach in a local school a couple nights a week and loves teaching kids. DD will definitely be starting when she is four.

If your son has a good instructor, this can help you son in so much more than just coordination and fitness. I definitely recommend staying and watching the classes, that way you can see the instructors methods and interactions with the kids. The instructor should be strict, but the kids should also be having fun. It should not be run like a drill camp. I hope you and your son have a lot of fun with this.