Youth Martial Arts
Martial arts originated in Asia as forms of self-defense. Now, thousands of years later, martial arts are still practiced by millions of people around the world. Aside from serving as forms of exercise and self-defense, martial arts provide a variety of benefits to children and adults alike. In our Youth Martial Arts programs, children are taught to focus their mental and physical energies while also developing critical character traits like self-discipline, honesty, respect, and perseverance. Learn more about our Youth Martial Arts programs for beginner and advanced students!
Find Your Youth Martial Arts Program!
Participants will learn kicks, punches, throws, and joint-locking techniques as an effective means of self-defense while gaining self-confidence and mental discipline. Participants will learn and develop values of caring, respect, honesty, and responsibility. Classes are progressive and recognize achievement and skill levels. Register today!
Why Enroll Your Child in Youth Martial Arts?
Learn Basic Self-Defense
One of the primary goals of Youth Martial Arts is to promote self-defense techniques. Although we always hope that our children will never be put into dangerous situations, self-defense is a lifesaving skill. Our Youth Martial Arts programs will give your children the ability to protect themselves and become more aware of potentially dangerous situations.
Builds Self-Esteem
Youth Martial Arts provide a unique opportunity for children to develop autonomy. Their martial arts knowledge and ability can help to increase confidence. Additionally, everyone progresses at their own pace, which prevents students from feeling disappointed by a lack of progress. The more capable your child feels in their abilities, the more confident they will be in martial arts and in life!
Rewards Accomplishment
As students master movements, forms, and sequences, they progress to different belt colors. These belts represent different levels of experience and mastery and are generally awarded after a student passes a test. As your child progresses through the program, their efforts and successes will be rewarded with belt progressions and positive reinforcements from teachers.
Improves Concentration & Focus
Active listening and concentration are critical for learning new moves and sequences in martial arts. Additionally, one of the pillars of martial arts is establishing a mind-body connection, and establishing this connection requires focus and concentration. As children learn to control their bodies, they will develop greater levels of mental self-control, which can have positive effects at home and at school.
Focuses on Self-Improvement
In Martial Arts, every student’s progression and experience is unique. Although there are some combative forms of martial arts, most programs do not focus on competition. Instead, the goal for each student is self-improvement. Every student receives tailored training, and mutual respect is shared among the entire class.
Develops Character
Martial Arts are some of the best sports for developing one’s character. These values are Through highly structured sessions, children will learn and develop the following:
- Self-respect and respect for others
- Discipline
- Perseverance
- Focus and self-control
- Humility
- Honesty
- Teamwork
- …and more!
Promotes Physical Fitness
YMCA Youth Martial Arts programs offer children a great opportunity to burn up excess energy through physical activity. Martial arts build strength and teach coordination through movements and sequences. The benefits of physical fitness are nearly endless, with these benefits being just the start!
- Improved coordination and motor skills
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Helping to alleviate feelings of depression and anxiety
- Building strong bones
Teaches Structure & Organization
Youth Martial Arts programs are highly structured and generally teach moves and concepts in small chunks. Students will learn how to absorb information in manageable amounts while also practicing repetition and memorization.