3 Reasons BJJ Classes Can Be Great for Children
Parents often wonder about the best age to get their children started on Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Perhaps you’ve already started looking at and comparing kids BJJ prices in your neighborhood, but are unsure if it’s a great activity for them.
Chances are you’ll find different answers, whether from asking fellow parents or guardians or reading online about the experiences of other families.
In this post, we talk about a few things you might want to consider to help you decide. But before that, let’s cover some reasons why martial arts classes, like BJJ, can be beneficial for young children.
1.It’s a great way to encourage children to get moving.
Too much screen time is one of the most common worries for parents anywhere. Enrolling your child in a martial arts class allows them to exercise in a fun way while staying away from gadgets.
Maintaining physical movement is important for staying healthy. It provides children with a way to spend their energy while staying fit. Anyone interested in the activity, including children, does not need to be physically fit to begin.
During the process, joiners are likely to get stronger, fitter, and healthier. If your child is starting to worry about their body size, BJJ training with professionals can help them manage their weight and feel comfortable.
They get to boost not only their physical health, but also their immune system and overall wellness.
2.It teaches self-defense.
Knowing self-defense will help build your child’s confidence so they can stand up for themselves if they are the target of bullying.
Bullying is a complex issue. Often, it’s the seemingly weak or non-confrontational children that become the target.
Children who know how to manage bullying situations without causing harm to others are less likely to become targets. They will know how to protect themselves and others while using their skills responsibly.
3.It’s a fun and flexible sport.
Although BJJ is an individual spot, it still encourages participants to interact with others.
Students work with others to improve their skills. Even if they face each other on the mat as enemies, they learn the value of respect and discipline. Jiu-jitsu rituals such as bowing and shaking hands instill beneficial habits among children.
Gym time becomes more fun as kids make friends. BJJ may seem serious but it’s a flexible sport that fosters a sense of community. Children struggle with and learn from their peers. Most of all, everyone’s welcome, regardless of age and body form.
Deciding Whether It’s Time to Enroll
Here are some questions to think about:
- Can my child listen, stay put, and follow instructions?
- Can my child perform tasks?
- Are there classes specifically for children?
- Have I found an instructor who is good at connecting with children?
- Are the kids BJJ prices reasonable for our budget?
Some children start with BJJ at age 5, while others begin training at age 12. So there’s no single correct answer to this. Some students seemed uninterested on the first day, but eventually became comfortable and invested.
Start with a trial class to see how your child responds, and so you can meet with the instructors and get a feel for the environment.