How to Teach the Principles of Martial Arts to Kids
Most children are fascinated by Martial Arts, and taking part in the sport is an ideal source of exercise. It also provides an opportunity for children to gain confidence and socialize outside of school, and it can be the beginning of a lifelong hobby. Martial Arts is more than just fighting, however, and it is important to ensure that children understand the principals behind the art.
Instructions
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Start each child's induction to the group with a talk about the room. Wherever the group is taking place needs to be respected. This includes keeping the room clean and tidy, and respecting the room and the group during the lesson. This includes being quiet and following instructions. This teaches self control and sets the right atmosphere for the lesson.
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Teach the correct posture to all students, and return to this posture between moves. Stand with your legs apart, your shoulders back and you're back straight. Some students may wish to pull in their stomachs.
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Practise a warm up. Usually, these are inspired by the movements of reeds in the wind. It should link together basic movements, and be relatively slow. Sway and bend, picturing the calming image of a reed blowing in the wind. This will warm up the body for exercise and help the children to relax into a comfortable, peaceful state.
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Refer to natural images regularly. Ask the children to picture a relevant image to find inspiration for the move and to give them something to picture. Commonly used images include the sun, the wind and water. Avoid referring to animals, which usually have many different moods and can confuse children.
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Encourage team work. Practise moves in pairs and small groups, ensuring each team member has a role in the group. Teach the children that those they are paired with, even for blocking and sparing activities, are assistants and friends, not enemies. Encourage a feeling of harmony within the group, which will enhance the group's performance.
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References
- Photo Credit Yellow Dog Productions/Lifesize/Getty Images
