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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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