Benefits Of Karate

We highly recommend that you attend at least two classes a week to receive the greatest possible benefit from training in authentic Japanese Karate.

Improvements from regular karate training include:

Training in Karate is a great way for both boys and girls to achieve fitness and focus. Some parents may think they also provide violence, but that is a myth. According to experts, Karate actually helps teach self-discipline and socialisation skills. In fact, many parents whose children have attention deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) report great success with these programs because the self-control and concentration are exactly the skills underdeveloped in AHDH children.

A typical hour-long class begins and ends with a bow to the teacher, or sensei, after a warm up students practice the various karate techniques. Each requires concentration and strict attention.

Progress is marked by the belt system; which takes the beginner from a white belt through a variety of colours until black belt. Testing for each new level, generally every three months, is a good exercise in setting and achieving goals.

But, say experts, it is the respect children will learn, whether from bowing or standing still and waiting for the next command that can be the most important benefit. It often carries over into school, helping improve behaviour and even grades according to recent research.

“Six is usually a good age to start classes,” says Mimi Johnson M.D a member of the American Academy of paediatrics' committee on sports medicine and fitness. By that time, a child should have enough muscle control to punch and turn properly and safely.