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| Sunday, 19 June 2005 |
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Junior Observer |  |
| News Business Features Editorial
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Magic of martial arts
Most of the martial arts systems taught today are methods of self-defence, and stresses on avoiding conflict through self-control, self-discipline and by improving self-confidence.There are many advantages in participating in martial arts, instead of team sports such as soccer and baseball. If you don't enjoy team-related activities, martial arts provides a way for you to learn not only the physical skills of athletics but also mental skills such as concentration and ways to improve your memory. Some children go in for martial arts with problems of self-confidence, because they are small or fragile or are being bullied by others. But they quickly begin to look and feel more confident as time goes on. Martial arts training can also be an introduction to good manners. Another advantage of the martial arts disciplines, according to instructors, is that they discourage aggressive behaviour outside of class. Because children who "bully" others often have self-esteem issues, martial arts helps them to strengthen self-confidence. Some say a child is never too young to begin a martial arts programme. Some instructors offer programmes for children as young as four years. These classes offer basics in coordination, motor skills and following directions. For most children, it's probably best to wait until they are at least seven before buying them that first uniform. Martial arts comprise a huge range of styles and systems, and the list grows longer each year as new styles are developed. The styles come from Korea, Japan and China, and the name of each martial art has a meaning that is important to its history and objectives. All the styles strengthen the same mind-body disciplines, so that when choosing the best one for you, you must consider the physical aspects of each style. The six categories generally considered best for children are Tae kwon do, Jujitsu, Judo, Aikido, Karate and Kung Fu. Tae kwon do comes from Korea and means "the way of the foot and fist". This style relies heavily on striking and fancy footwork to keep opponents at a distance, and the form is famous for its high kicks. If you have a competitive nature, tae kwon do may be the sport you are looking for. Jujitsu comes from Japan and means "compliant art". A well-rounded style that features lots of sparring and weapons training, jujitsu is one of the oldest styles of martial arts. Aikido also comes from Japan and means "way of harmony". This style uses an attacker's movements against him or her. This deeply spiritual style strives to teach how to disable an attacker without causing serious injury. Judo which also comes from Japan, means "gentle way". A softer form of jujitsu developed late last century. Judo emphasises wrestling-type moves and is considered one of the safest styles for children. Judo places great emphasis on moral and mental development. Karate originates from Okinawa, Japan, and means "empty hand". With a lot of punching, blocking, throwing and kicking, karate stresses defensive moves. Karate also uses weapons. Kung fu has its origins in China and means "well done". Kung fu is a generic term for hundreds of Chinese fighting arts and encompasses sharp blows and kicks applied to pressure points on the opponent's body. |
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| News | Business | Features
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| Politics | Produced by Lake House |
Are you fascinated with martial arts and dream of learning it some day?
Well, you may be interested to know that martial arts not only provides
you with an outlet for excess energy, but also helps you to gain
self-confidence, develop a healthy respect for others and especially an
ability to protect yourself. 
