Full Force Dance and Karate

5 Reasons to Enroll Your Child in Karate

Are you interested in enrolling your child in Karate training but feel a little nervous about beginning? Many parents can feel the same way, asking questions such as, "Will my child become more combative?" and "Will this really help his or her behavior in school?" We understand how intimidating starting a new activity can be, and the following are the best reasons to begin karate training for your child.

1. Karate is a healthy choice for exercise.

Many people think of karate and visualize dazzling high kicks and dropping into splits as seen in popular karate films such as The Karate Kid. Not everyone will be physically able to perform these feats, but our purpose is to make sure you work at a level that is comfortable, yet challenging to yourself. People feel good when they are healthy. With a healthy body, you have a healthy mind. Everything from waking up in the morning to thinking clearly at school becomes easier to deal with and more

enjoyable when your child's body and mind are in tune.

2. Karate builds awareness and self defense.

The key to self defense does not rely on punching and kicking. As a matter of fact, we discourage physical confrontation unless it is an absolute last resort. Learning to be aware of your surroundings and avoiding dangerous situations is the focus of awareness. Simple things that people probably already know are used as constant reminders so that awareness becomes a natural way of thinking. We don't want people to be paranoid or scared to walk around their own block or to go to school,

but many bad situations can be avoided.

3. Karate improves concentration and focus.

Concentration is something that for many people, has to be taught. Many doctors are now recommending people with A.D.D. (Attention Deficit Disorder) and A.D.H.D. (Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder) learn karate because of the concentration skills that are developed through the training drills and the practice of kata - a series of movements, much like a dance choreography with the use of karate techniques.

4. Karate instills or reinforces a sense of respect and discipline.

Most people associate karate with discipline. This is because of the format in which the classes are taught. Respect is paramount. Discipline comes from within and will give the student the focus they will need to succeed

(in Karate or any other life activity).

5. Karate is a natural way to promote goal orientation.

People need direction. Most people enter a karate club with visions of wearing a black belt. The realization of reaching that goal can be overwhelming without proper direction. Our instructors help individuals set reasonable goals so that a person can make these ambitions attainable. Instead of thinking about a black belt that may be five or more years down the road, we focus on our ranking system which breaks it down to a few months at a time. At each level, the student knows in advance what is expected of them to reach the next level. People that learn the importance of mile marking goals can more readily accept some of life's challenges and learn to make realistic goals for themselves when there isn't someone there to do it for them.