We often hear about the many benefits of practicing martial arts for kids and teens, but what does science say on the subject?
There is a growing body of research showing clear benefits of martial arts training for young people, particularly in terms of physical, mental, and social development. At Fight Flow Academy in Raleigh, we are constantly looking to align our programs to enhance these benefits.
Let's look at some of the specific ways martial arts can help young people, using statistics, academic studies, and data.
One of the most obvious benefits of martial arts for young people is improved physical fitness.
Most martial arts styles involve a combination of aerobic and anaerobic exercise, which can help improve cardiovascular health and increase strength and endurance. In addition, martial arts training often involves practicing movements and techniques that can improve flexibility, coordination, and balance.
A study published in the Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness found that martial arts training can significantly improve cardiovascular endurance, muscle strength, and flexibility in young people.
Teenagers who took part in a 12-week martial arts program were studied, and their fitness levels were compared to those of a control group who did not take part in the program.
Results showed that the teenagers who participated in martial arts training had significantly greater improvements in cardiovascular endurance, muscle strength, and flexibility compared to the control group.
Martial arts training also has clear benefits when it comes to mental and emotional well-being.
The discipline and focus required to learn and practice martial arts helps improve concentration and attention span. Physical activity during class reduces stress and anxiety. In addition, the sense of accomplishment that comes from mastering a martial arts technique or achieving a new belt can boost self-esteem and confidence.
Training in martial arts has been shown to lower anxiety and depression symptoms in young people in a research published in the Journal of Child and Family Studies. .
A group of teenagers participated in a martial arts program for 12 weeks, and the outcomes were compared to those of a control group who did not.
Young people who trained in martial arts showed considerably reduced levels of anxiety and despair compared to a control group that did not engage in martial arts.
Martial arts training can also teach young people valuable life skills such as discipline, respect, and self-defense. At Fight Flow Academy, we place strong emphasis on respect for oneself and others. These training values can help young people learn to control their emotions and behavior, and to treat others with kindness and respect. In addition, learning self-defense techniques can give young people the confidence and skills they need to protect themselves in potentially dangerous situations.
A study published in the Journal of Physical Education and Sport measured the self-esteem and confidence of a group of teenagers who participated in a martial arts program for 12 weeks, and compared their results to a control group who did not participate in the program.
The results showed that the teenagers who participated in martial arts training had significantly greater improvements in self-esteem and confidence compared to the control group.
Improved focus and concentration from practice can help young people do better in school, while discipline and respect can help them build stronger relationships with others.
Numerous studies have shown positive outcomes for young people who participate in martial arts. At Fight Flow, it is our mission to design engaging and productive programs that empower young people to grow into their full potential.