Many experts and family members agree that getting the family involved in an exercise program helps everyone stick to it. One of the best forms of exercise that can involve an entire family is martial arts.
This is partly because martial arts has various levels that fit most ages, and often children and parents can progress along together. Also, martial arts students consider themselves members of a martial arts family, and that kind of support can go a long way in motivating everyone to continue and to keep fit. Here are a few of the more popular forms of martial arts, and how the family can benefit from them.
Tae Kwon Do
This Korean martial art can be a good fit for everyone in the family. Because it involves a lot of action in the form of kicking and striking, children can often do well with it. If everyone in the family is a beginner, most of the time the family can begin together and take classes together.
Some dojos (martial arts schools) divide children into age groups, especially very young children such as preschool and kindergarten age. By the time kids are seven years old or so, many dojos will incorporate them in with the adults.
Tae Kwon Do involves stretching as well as action, but it is not a slow and meditative art. It cultivates speed, accuracy, and physical prowess.
Tai Chi
Tai chi, or tai chi chuan, is a Chinese martial art that is aimed more toward health than some martial arts. It is composed of slow, deliberate, meditative movements, and emphasizes the health of the whole person. Tai chi is inspired by nature, and many forms (a set of martial arts moves) are named after an animal such as a crane or praying mantis.
Tai chi might be a good family option for those seeking to cultivate focus and calm in their families. Stretching and fitness are also part of tai chi, but it is not a fast-moving art with a lot of punching and kicking. Tai chi might be an option for families who want to bring art into their homes and make fitness a part of their life philosophy.
Karate
This is often what people think of when they hear the term “martial arts.” Karate is often used (incorrectly) as a generic term for any Eastern martial art, but it is actually a specific type of martial art that comes from Japan. Karate specifically emphasizes kicking and punching and striking with the hands. Karate involves learning about the body itself, and how the joints, muscles, and bones can be used for optimal self-defense.
Like Tae Kwon Do, karate involves large muscle groups and encourages physical prowess. Children often enjoy karate, and it can be a good way to teach children how to channel aggressive energy into something constructive.
Kung Fu
Like tai chi, kung fu is a Chinese martial art. It emphasizes the blocking of strikes and kicks, and many blocks are quite powerful. It involves remaining frozen in poses or stances. Kung fu is considered a foundational martial art, having given rise to many others. It is very disciplined and might make a good choice for families looking for that kind of order. Children who have issues with discipline can see themselves accomplishing something through discipline, and this can be a powerful life message.
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