Kickboxing and Kids: Is It a Healthy Choice?

Like it or not, sometimes kids desire to get involved with something that you don't entirely approve of. As a result, you are required to determine whether or not it is something that is safe and worthwhile of your child's time. If your son or daughter has started to show an interest in kickboxing, then there is much for you to learn before you make a ruling one way or the other.

Isn't it Just Promoting Fighting? Kickboxing, in its natural form has less to do with fighting than you might suspect. Though at competitive levels, there is hand-to-hand (or rather foot-to-foot) combat, the truth is that this art form aims to teach all participants how to dispel disagreement without the use of physical violence. Even the physical components are often holds, which are not meant to harm the other person, but rather to keep him or her at bay until the anger is distinguished. Schools of kickboxing want to teach children and adults how to defend themselves in everyday life - first in a non-violent way and then, if necessary, with force.

Is My Child Going to Come Home Bloody? Many parents have concern about the sport because they fear that their children will come home injured. However, at the beginning levels, combat is very controlled and is rarely allowed to progress without direct and precise instruction by the teacher. In this way the children (or adults) are taught the maneuvers they may need if ever assaulted, but without fear of physical harm. Furthermore, the sport, since its true introduction in the 1970's has seen many advancements in protective clothing and gear that are meant to protect against injury.

Are all Kids Suited For the Sport? While most children would be welcomed into a Kickboxing Colorado Springs school, there are certain considerations that should be made. If the child has an illness or condition that could be negatively impacted by the physical nature of the sport, then he or she would not likely be a great candidate. As with any sport, it is always wise to consult a physician before enrolling.

What will He or She Take Away From it? Aside from the self defense skills, there are many other things to take away from kickboxing classes. They teach self-discipline, which has been shown to have positive effects with children suffering from conditions such as attention deficit disorder. It also aims to improve self-esteem through both physical and mental growth. Lastly, it provides a cardiovascular workout that will help a child shed excess pounds and build a trim and muscular frame.

If you still aren't sure if kickboxing is the right activity for your child, then it might be time to take a closer look. Contact a school near you and schedule a visit. Most will allow you to look in on a class so you can make a more educated decision.