3 Ways Jiu Jitsu Helps Your Child Beyond Self-Defense

I went to a Martial Arts conference not long ago and one of the leaders of our Industry, Mr John Cokinos, put me on the spot at a round-table style discussion by asking me: “Ricardo, when it comes to your children what is most important to you?”

My answer was that I wish to teach them enough so that when I am not around they are ok on their own…I believe many parents share this fear I have and without a doubt, Jiu Jitsu has been the most positive educational tool – outside of school, I have seen not only for my kids but for hundreds of kids that come through our doors on weekly basis.

These are 3 of the major ways I have seen Jiu Jitsu help children Off the Mats:

Anti-Bullying
Unlike other martial arts which teach violent punches and kicks, our Brazilian Jiu Jitsu program utilizes non-violent holds which are only used as a LAST OPTION  against a physically assaultive bully, while other programs may make children more aggressive, the Program promotes non-violence through respect, discipline and compassion.

Character Development
Jiu Jitsu is more than a self defense system. We aim to teach our students not only to defend themselves from bullies but also to instill the key traits of a life time Martial Artist: honor, respect, humility, discipline, perseverance etc. Each week we focus on a different topic such as: goal setting, sportsmanship and self discipline. These are addressed as storytelling at the end of classes.

Inclusion – ADD and Autism
Studies show that a complex physical activity like Jiu Jitsu, strengthens neural networks in the brain, and enables ADD/ADHD kids to practice self-control and gain confidence. Movement, helps them develop coordination while building strength. Our Jiu Jitsu classes are highly structured, this structure combined with the physical training, are proven to help individual challenged by ADD/ADHD and Autism to develop greater organizational and executive functioning skills.

I have to admit I am biased not so much because I teach Jiu Jitsu but because I have seen both my children experience these benefits.

My daughter Flavia has flourished academically and athletically because of confidence and physical development Jiu Jitsu gave her. For my son Renzo, who was diagnosed with Autism at 5 years old – Jiu Jitsu helped him socialize with his class mates and with his muscle development and coordination which typically affects children in the spectrum.

If you live in our area I would like to invite you to bring your child to try a class, if not I am happy to recommend a school within your local community.

For our strong, safe and successful children,

Ricardo Almeida