Due to inclement weather conditions, all classes scheduled for Saturday, January 31, are cancelled.
Many parents in Wake Forest, North Carolina wonder if martial arts is a good fit for children with ADHD or attention challenges. While it may seem counterintuitive, martial arts training can actually help improve focus, discipline, and self-control. At Innovative Martial Arts Academy, we’ve helped many children develop stronger concentration and confidence through structured martial arts classes.
One of the largest benefits of martial arts for kids is improved concentration. In order to learn new moves and sequences, students must practice active listening and learn how to observe their instructors. Attention and focus are critical to learning martial arts. Our Wake Forest Martial Arts Instructors know how to build up your child’s concentration and help them re-focus. When children lose focus or get off task instructors can redirect students by asking them to perform a basic stance. This acts as a “reset button” and gets students to regain focus. Depending on the martial art, your child may also learn meditation/breathing exercises for focus that he or she can then use outside the dojo.
Studies show that complex physical activity, like martial arts, strengthens the neural pathways in the brain and enables kids with ADHD to practice self-control. Movement helps them develop coordination while building strength. Martial arts offers a safe environment for children to work out their frustration or excess energy. Children learn to channel their feelings into practice and learn self-control of their feelings in a safe space.
In a martial arts program, energy is crucial. Students need to have the energy and stamina to complete their movements in the lesson. Our instructors are aware that children can have excess energy. We offer a safe space with an effective means of allowing your child to burn off that energy which will benefit them emotionally, physically and mentally.
There is no pressure to move up to the next belt right away or even in a certain timeframe. Students are encouraged to work at their own pace, and instructors will help them set individual goals. That way, your child can grow in confidence with each goal they accomplish. There are many benchmarks students can meet along the way, so they don’t get frustrated or feel like they are stagnating.
Martial Arts is all about self-improvement. While team sports may lead to your child feeling lost or unable to keep up, martial arts focuses on the individual child. No one will be sitting on the bench in martial arts! Instead of your child worrying that they can’t perform or they will let the team down, they can learn to improve their own skills, at their own pace. Even though this is not a team sport, your child will still feel like they are part of a team. In our dojo, we encourage students to support each other and celebrate each other’s successes!
A technique or form in martial arts can have dozens of different movements. Each move is broken down into steps to make the learning process easier. The students learn gradually, repeating and adding steps as they go. They learn to anticipate which step comes next. Eventually, they put everything together into fluid movements. This step-by-step approach is beneficial for all children, especially those who have attention and focus issues. Children will learn at their own pace and build confidence as they progress!
Take a look at some of our other articles about martial arts and IMAA’s course offerings? Check out the following related blog articles: .
At Innovative Martial Arts Academy, we’re all about FAMILY and FUN. We offer specialized martial arts classes for Men, Women, and Children, giving each student the opportunity to challenge their body and mind in a safe, supportive environment. Take on the best training in disciplines like Kenpo Karate, Kali, and Aikido and build your skills one day at a time with help of our dedicated instructors. We are proud to serve families across Wake Forest, Wakefield, and the surrounding area with a rewarding experience that can set you or your child up for success in all aspects of life. If you’re interested in learning about our martial arts program, contact us at 919.562.4663, or visit us online today.
