Well the summer is coming to an end – as sad as it is. The weather really has not supported fitness at all. Running, golfing, sailing, canoeing, or biking in the rain is not my idea of a good time.
The kids are even getting bored and they have been busy this summer – but not doing the normal summer activities. Speaking of kids, they do need to move – to get fit and stay fit. As the summer winds down and the hustle of getting back to school starts, we might forget about keeping the kids active during the fall and winter. So parents, what are you going to do with your kids this fall for activities?
I know there is much to consider – scheduling, how many kids you have, can you afford it or not, and how will it benefit the kids in the long term.
For me, there are three major considerations in my family. The first is a foundation for fitness. If you do not encourage fitness in your children early on, they will be less likely to maintain a healthy lifestyle in the future (that also includes healthy food choices).
The second area of concern is self esteem and confidence boosting. The foundation for self esteem begins early on in childhood. Although the family plays a huge role, other environments such as school and the friends our children hang around with, play an important role.
The third area is self defence. We all need to be prepared to protect ourselves at anytime and anyplace. This is especially true for children and teens. You might say “we’ll stay out of danger.” That may be true, but not all attacks take place in a back alley. Many are on the school ground and are perpetrated by bullies.
All three of my kids are in Karate, for the reasons mentioned above and more. You might think that martial arts is not physically challenging. Let me tell you, it is. Not only is it physically challenging, it is mentally challenging as well.
There are many types of marital arts, but Goju Ryu, which I am partial to, has its origins from Okinawa/Japan. Karate training is the consistent and progressive building on basics, including blocks, punches, kicks and striking techniques.
Not only is (karate)
physically challenging,
it is mentally challenging
as well.
Kata (simulated fighting) are patterns of movements with a logical series of attacking and blocking techniques. In the past, Katas were developed and practised for the purpose of self-defense. Today, students of martial arts use katas for competition purposes and daily practise of basic movements.
When Street self defence and sparring is added to martial arts, it assists students — both young and old — to develop confidence and learn defensive tactics. And it helps them to get fit.
The mental aspect of karate supports the strengthening of the mind and will. Focus comes with time, and this not only supports success in the dojo (training hall) but in all aspects of life, including school, work and relationships. Karate not only supports the knowledge and application of martial arts, it supports safety of oneself and others, respect for all, positive attitude and to think before one acts.
Because karate is not a team sport, students can work at their own speed and comfort. Every one can try it. At Benoit’s Dojo, the philosophy is “the best defence is offence,” but if danger arises, they will teach you how to protect yourself.
Did I mention all five of us (in our family) are training? It is one of the best decisions we have made as a family. Our job as parents is to raise our children to be the best they can be. Martial arts support this. Kids with confidence will succeed in life.
Karen Hourtovenko, RN(EC), is a health and wellness consultant from Sudbury who writes columns about healthy living for Northern Life.
