Psychological Discipline

Our martial arts training program is a comprehensive method for developing these psychological skills in children: 

Structured Learning Environment:

Our martial arts program offers a structured learning environment that fosters discipline and respect. Our classes' clear rules and expectations help children understand the importance of focus and calmness in training and everyday life. Students who talk in class or break the rules get push-ups and are made to sit out for a period.  We strictly follow these discipline processes and are increasingly hearing from parents that it is one of the few places, including school, that enforce discipline and respect. 

Physical Exercise:

The physical aspects of our training help children manage stress and anxiety naturally. Regular exercise improves mood and focus by releasing endorphins and reducing the body's stress hormones, adrenaline, and cortisol levels. Over eight years of age, our sparring classes are full contact; this is becoming increasingly rare in martial arts schools. However, children can’t learn to handle physical altercations unless they do so in a safe environment first. 

Skill Mastery and Progress:

Our martial arts program involves a clear progression system. As children advance and master new skills, their self-efficacy grows. This progress boosts their confidence and helps them remain focused and motivated. 

Breathing and Meditation Techniques:

Many martial arts disciplines incorporate breathing and meditation techniques that enhance mindfulness. These practices teach children how to control their breathing and remain calm in the face of challenges, improving their focus during stressful and everyday situations. 

Social Support:

Our martial arts club is a community where children can interact with peers and instructors in a supportive environment. This social support system is vital for children who have experienced bullying, offering them a safe space to express themselves and build positive relationships.  Our club head's oldest son was a victim of bullying throughout primary school from year 4; he enrolled in martial arts in year 5, and as he gradually progressed, bullying was practically non-existent by years 7 and 8.  The bullies were still there; he had just become someone not worth targeting.  The children often share these experiences as they form friendships, which can then move across to form support networks in local schools. 

Self-Defence Skills:

While the focus is often on the mental and emotional benefits, the physical self-defence skills learned in martial arts also contribute to a child’s psychological well-being. Knowing they can defend themselves, if necessary, can provide children with a sense of security that enhances their focus and calmness.  We have had students who have redefined their view of bullying; the bullies were still bullies; they just viewed them now as so harmless that the student no longer viewed the behaviour as bullying. One student once said, “I see my bully like a harmless puppy barking at me”.