Martial arts training aids children with ADHD

Attending martial arts class is about more than getting a workout and learning self-defense tactics. Each student can get something different out of his or her experience, but training can be especially rewarding for children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Martial arts teacher Rodger Pyle knows this diagnosed with ADHD as a child, he told ADDitude magazine.

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Pyle struggled as a child because his public school didn’t know how to deal with his condition, and it wasn’t until he found martial arts that he was able to overcome some of his mental hurdles. Now he uses his experience to help children with the disorder. After all, many studies show complex physical activity, like martial arts, helps students strengthen neural networks in the brain and learn how to control their impulses.

“My job is to look beyond a student’s diagnosis and find ways to motivate him while playing up his strengths,” Pyle told the magazine.

Martial arts helps children with ADHD find direction
Suffering through ADHD himself has allowed Pyle to feel rewarded as his students take steps to build their mental strength. Martial arts can be critical in the development of children as it helps them learn life lessons that they can carry with them after their time at the school is over. Here are some of the benefits that students with ADHD are able to take away from martial arts training:

• Improved ability to communicate: Not only does martial arts require students to work together on their craft, but it also teaches respect. This can be worthwhile for children with ADHD because they can often lack the patience necessary to get along with others. Learning how to work together in a team environment is a timeless skill.
• Higher self esteem: Children with knowledge of their disorder may feel embarrassed or have low self esteem. With martial arts training, students can get a sense of achievement as they move up the ranks. This will help with their self-confidence outside the school.
• Better self-discipline: Martial arts students must learn to control their brains before they can be successful in class. While this can be an especially difficult challenge for those with ADHD, learning self-discipline will help children start a path to coping with their disorder.

Learn how we can help support your child with ADD/ADHD.  Get your first month of martial arts classes for only $49 with a FREE uniform included.  Call 903-243-8767 or visit www.sulphurspringsata.com to register today!

The Control Contradiction in Martial Arts

A study published in the Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology revealed that martial arts training is effective at teaching self-control. It makes sense, given that martial arts practitioners have to perform moves carefully and in a certain way, and behave respectfully during class. They regulate their actions and the power behind their strikes, and many individuals feel more in control of their lives after studying a discipline. But the irony of martial arts is that you have to relinquish control before you find it.

Leave egos at the door
Starting a new martial art is a humbling experience: You don't know any of the techniques those around you seem to have no problem performing. Even students who have been studying for years get knocked down, mess up a form or forget a skill. Every time you enter the class, you have to leave your ego at the door, knowing you are not perfect – and that's OK. Eventually, your body will learn the techniques, and you will progress in your training.

However, if you try to control your training, you'll fail to learn. Instead of trying to control everything, let go. Focus on listening to your instructor and your peers and feeling the way your body is moving.

Letting your instructor lead the way
Some people also have a hard time trusting their instructors. This relative stranger is telling you to move your body in ways you may never have before, so the fear of letting go is understandable. However, the instructor is your ally, and he or she is asking you to do new things to help you grow.

There will be days in your training when you want to progress to new techniques, but your instructor is making you drill the basics. Or, you might be itching to test for the next belt. Your instructor knows what he or she is doing. Trust in the experts, and you'll become a better martial artist.

Once you give up control, you'll start mastering yourself and the discipline.

Start your path to discipline today with our FREE trial class and your first month for only $49 with FREE Uniform included.  Visit www.sulphurspringsata.com to register today!

article originally published at Kicksite MAT chat newsletter.