Many people envision Karate and the martial arts as they are depicted in the movies. Nothing could be further from the truth. Karate is not about prolonged violent fighting scenes where people are being maimed and killed. Karate is not about violence at all. It is about respect, confidence, control of oneself and humility.
Many parents are choosing Karate for their children over the traditional recreational activities. A child is allowed to develop at his or her own pace. The goals that they achieve are all their own, not as part of a team effort. Training instills mental and physical discipline necessary for a healthy adult life. They are participating in a stimulating environment which the child can have fun and learn to interact with others.
Adults also benefits greatly from training. The physical conditioning alone counteracts physical deterioration, increases flexibility, relieves stress and helps counter weight problems. All vital muscle groups are strengthened and toned including the heart. Self-defense is a major part of training as well as the psychological aspects of being assaulted on the street.
Self-esteem is achieved by feeling good about your accomplishments. Students are encouraged to do their best step of the way. Karate boosts self-esteem for the less confident and can be humbling experience for the “I Know Everything” type of person.
People join Karate for many different reasons. There is a lot more to training than just learning self-defense techniques. There is also more to training than blocking, punching and kicking drills of which there are many. Whether you join because of movies theatrics, physical or mental conditioning, the comradely of a club atmosphere, self-defense or just to get out of the house, there is absolutely nothing as well-rounded as Karate training.
Physical Benefits include:
- Improve reflexes and co-ordination
- Increased performance in all physical activities.
- Increased strength and stamina so you feel great all the day.
- Increased flexibility and weight control for better overall fitness.
- Cardiovascular workouts (heart and lungs) to keep you in top shape.
- Greatly improved balance.
- Ability to defend yourself.
- Improved concentration for better work and study habits.
- Stress reduction and the ability to relax.
- Confidence in knowing you can defend yourself and your family.
- Confidence in knowing how to deal with bullies and other confrontations.
- A positive attitude towards life through self-confidence and self-discipline.
- Self-esteem and your outlook on life.
- Respect for yourself and those around you.
- Motivation and an “I Can Do It” attitude.
One last benefit I would like to mentions is that of setting goals. We live in goal setting, achievement society. Without goals we have no direction in life. Students are promoted often and are encouraged to set and attain their own “Short and Long Term Goals”. Achieving these goals are incredible confidence boosters. The long term goal that all students have is to achieve their black belt. I tell every students that if they work hard and never give up, they will achieve the goals they set. This also contributes to good character building and the life skills needed to succeed in today’s world.
By Japan trained,
Mahaguru Hanshi Subrasan
