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Martial Arts and Self Esteem

March 9, 2006

When most people think about martial arts and self esteem,
they probably think about the benefits for children. It is
true that children do show increased self esteem when they
train martial arts, but it is also true that adults can
experience the same effects. Training martial arts can
increase self esteem in many ways for many people.

HERE’S HOW:

Mental Obstacles
Training martial arts can help you overcome mental
obstacles – including self-doubt and a lack of confidence.
As you progress through the different levels, you will soon
be able to conquer self-doubt and other overwhelming
feelings as you start to build mental awareness of your
mind/body connection. Becoming physically able to reach a
goal is connected with your mental ability to take your
body where you want it to go.

Self-control
Martial arts help you build your self-esteem because you
get to move at your own pace and succeed individually.
Earning belts will give you a sense of accomplishment.
They also teach you how to set goals and give you the
confidence to reach these goals. Martial arts also teach
self-respect and respect for others and give you the sense
of relief that you’ll be able to defend yourself if you
need to. Having these skills will give you an all-around
confidence in yourself and your abilities.

Physical Abilities
Your physical abilities are also tied to your self-esteem.
You will also feel fit and notice an increase in your
strength. Feeling good about yourself physically will also
carry over into other parts of your life – you’ll start
feeling good about yourself as a whole. In addition to
that, your increased coordination will help you do well in
other areas as well, whether you choose to take part in
another sport or even if you want to coach your child’s
sports team.

WHY THIS IS IMPORTANT:

For Children:
The benefits of increased self-esteem for children are
almost endless. Children with high self-esteem do well in
school, are less likely to take drugs and are more likely
to stay out of trouble. Training martial arts will also
teach children how to maximize their potential by setting
and reaching goals and by giving them the confidence to be
persistent and to be positive role models for their peers.

For Adults:
Many adults could also use a boost of self-esteem. This
boost can help them do well in their jobs, to be more
relaxed at home and to be able to take more healthy risks.
Adults with high self esteem are able to maximize their
potential by setting and meeting goals and by being
persistent. They are also more likely to take on
leadership roles whether on the job or in volunteer
opportunities.


Of course, one of the key components to being able to build
your self esteem (or your child’s) is to find a great
instructor at a great school. Instructors need to be ready
to give guidance and positive reinforcement while they
nurture their students and guide them through their
programs. Why not give it a try? You have nothing to lose
and everything to gain. To make it even easier, I’ll help
you get started. Just contact me and I’ll send you my free
report on how to pick a martial arts school.

Sincerely,
Robert Jones
Master Instructor
The Academy of Kempo Martial Arts

P.S. My 3 studios are located in Lynnwood, Kent, and
Bellevue, Washington. If you live near one of those
locations, please contact me.

info@martialarts-instruction.com
1-800-508-6141


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