Martial arts training has long been recognized for its ability to improve academic performance. Numerous scientific studies, as well as feedback from the parents of young martial arts students, indicates that there are an extraordinary number of cases where children have started doing better in school when they began practicing martial arts – in many cases quite dramatically. What is it about the study of martial arts that can cause such positive transformations?

Improved attention-span has been shown to be one of the most obvious tools for improving academic performance and training in the art of Karatedo focuses directly on this aspect of self-development. Karatedo students typically display an improved ability to concentrate, both in terms of the depth of concentration and length of their attention spans. After consistent training, students emerge with an increased level of mental discipline. This can help students deal with the many distractions that can adversely affect their grades.

In addition, the breathing technique and kata learned in Karatedo are a form of meditation and helps students deal with the daily stress and pressure associated with exams, homework, and reports. The increased self-confidence which Karateka develop is connected to better physical and mental health, better socialization and better academic performance.

Respect for other people, as well as for the SELF, is an important part of Karatedo training. The discipline acquired in the Dojo goes a long way to forming positive relationships within school, with teachers and friends; as well as at home, with parents and siblings.

Progressing in the art of Karatedo requires the successful completion of belt promotions (smaller goals). The student learns that big goals can be achieved if they develop goal setting strategies and meet smaller goals first.

Maslow’s hierarchy of human needs states that we must satisfy lower level needs before we can move on to achieve higher level needs – Karatedo training helps one move beyond the level of safety and security needs. Karatedo study provides young people with self-defence knowledge, as well as CONFIDENCE, which enables them to concentrate on academics without added distractions and anxiety stemming from insecurity due to insensitive teachers or schoolyard bullies. Even more importantly, long-term Karatedo practice will also give the student the maturity and strength of character to know that they can walk away from a fight without having their integrity compromised.

And by the way: the benefits mentioned here are certainly not just for kids. Adults who study Karatedo will also find that their brains and bodies feel and work better as well – and studying the art of Karatedo is a very healthy and fun way for family members to spend time together.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.