Is BJJ the Secret to Raising Successful Children?

Two children spar at Gracie Barra BJJ in Tennessee
Every parent wants the best for their child, but it’s not always clear how to get there. What is “the best,” especially when each child is so unique? At Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in Franklin, TN, we help children learn and grow in a safe environment so they can become confident adults, ready to take charge and get what they want out of life. Here are just a few ways Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes can help shape your child into a high-functioning adult.

Coordination

Our classes are designed to teach Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques to children in the Franklin and Nashville areas. This helps develop their coordination, hone balance and learn very specific movements that require a great deal of focus. We don’t teach “flashy” movements; your child will learn real-world techniques that apply to scenarios he or she could experience in real life.

Situational Awareness

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a great way to teach children situational awareness. They learn to be aware of not only themselves and the physical space they occupy, but also to watch their surroundings and scan the environment for potential threats. In this way, children can advocate for themselves in day-to-day life.

Discipline

The skills your child learns in class don’t stay on the mat. Your child will learn discipline, which spills over into other aspects of life like studying for school or learning a new skill. Children are taught how to respect the learning process and how to persevere through adversity. Through discipline, anything can be achieved.

Confidence

Our instructors help your child become an expert in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu so they can use it appropriately and share their knowledge with others. This teaches every child that, with time and dedication, they can become an expert at something – even if it’s hard!

Lasting Friendships

BJJ requires you to work with a partner while sparring. This adds an element of socialization into each class that other martial arts styles do not have. When kids work together, they develop skill together and often find that they have more in common with their classmates than just a love of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It’s a fun, positive environment that fosters lasting friendships for many years to come.

Perseverance

The structure of our school encourages children to set goals and work toward them. There are short term goals, like mastering a new technique, and long-term goals, like working towards a new belt or making it to a competition. The act of working hard to achieve something holds inherent value that children will use as they get older.

Self-Defense

Of course, each child enrolled in our school will learn the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, which is a form of self-defense. This is a useful skill for both children and adults. As you learn proper techniques, how to use BJJ safely, and identify or avoid potentially dangerous situations.

At Gracie Barra Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, we help children build character. These lessons follow them into adulthood so they can lead safe and happy lives. Contact us today to learn more about classes or schedule a free introductory class for your child this week!