Today, children are more likely to sit at home, in front of the television or a video game, than to get outside and learn or do something new. Unfortunately, this leads to more children suffering from health issues, such as diabetes and obesity, and many even finding it more difficult to make friends.

A great remedy to all these issues is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

This activity is ideal for both boys and girls, and can help children improve fitness, garner new socialization opportunities and have fun. Learn the top reasons all children should participate in this activity, here.

1. Learn Respect and Discipline

There isn’t anything as effective as martial arts when it comes to teaching children, as well as people of any age, the importance of respect and discipline. These are two attributes that require both attention and training.

With proper practice, a great coach and the support from parents, any child can learn the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and develop the character traits of respect and discipline that are absolutely critical for them to succeed in martial arts.

Once these are learned, they will extend beyond Gracie Barra Mats, and be applied in all things the child does. This is true for discipline, as well as respect for authority figures, peers and anyone that they meet during their lifetime.

2. Learn Confidence Through the Lessons of Self-Defense

One of the most important skills learned in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is the ability for the child to defend themselves. Unlike other styles of martial arts, this form doesn’t teach unrealistic or “flashy” moves. Instead, children will learn how to neutralize potentially dangerous situations and help prevent anyone — including themselves — from being injured.

A child that masters Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu will be able to take control of an attacker and also neutralize them in realistic situations. When they gain this knowledge, the child will also develop more self-confidence.

As we say, “self-defense leads to self-confidence”.

While self-defense is taught in these classes, so is the concept that they should not go out and use these newly acquired skills unless it is absolutely necessary. The goal is to learn how to defend oneself, without having to kick, punch or inflict any type of damage or injury on the other person.

The Jiu-Jitsu self-defense skills are specially relevant to help children deal with bullying.

As we all know the psychological damage of bullying can be disastrous, but when children are trained in Jiu-Jitsu they develop the confidence and skills to stand up for themselves and their friends. For many of our students, the bullying episode becomes a break through of self-confidence instead of an memory of humiliation.

3. Socialize and Develop New Friendships

While the mental and physical advantages of learning Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu are clear, there are other benefits as well, including the ability for children to make new friends. Gracie Barra Schools are hyper social environments in which children develop great friendships and learn to trust and cooperate with their training partners.

Being a sport of constant physical contact in which students need each other to learn the techniques, it stimulates a child develops the social skills necessary to nurture and grow friendships.

4. Improve Coordination and Body Awareness

With practice, a child can develop their bodies and improve their coordination, so they don’t feel uncomfortable in various situations. When these skills are learned, children will be able to do practically any activity that requires a high level of coordination, such as cartwheels, break-falls, push-ups and others. Additionally, the coordination and body awareness taught by Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu lessons can help a child find success in other sports and activities in the future.

5. Excitement for a New, Positive Hobby

Training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a fun and exciting activity for children. They will look forward to the lessons each week and, as they master new skills and their abilities grow, the child will also have a sense of accomplishment that makes the activity even more exciting.

The fact is, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is one of the few activities a child can do where they will simultaneously develop their mind and improve their physical attributes, all while improving their social skills. These things combined will help to build the foundation for a successful and positive life for any child.