5 Benefits of Self-Defense Training for Children and Juniors

Nobody can dispute the usefulness of self-defense training in today’s world. Even though the risks that children and juniors face are different from those adults encounter, the ability to handle potentially dangerous situations is recommended — if not essential.

Like all sports and martial arts, Krav Maga challenges both young and old physically and mentally. Regular training leads to increased strength and speed, and develops coordination and skills. But beyond all of this, there are many other advantages that children and juniors gain…

1. Creativity

Many situations or exercises do not have a prescribed solution. Children are challenged to come up with ideas, test them, and look for new ones or improve them if they are on the right track :)

2. Initiative

Every day we need volunteers, and we reward those who have the courage to raise their hand or step forward.

3. Decision Making

Indecisiveness can be dangerous and is often a major source of stress. Making a quick decision — even when we are not sure it is the best one — is sometimes necessary; but it is also something that must be practiced, which is why many exercises are oriented in this direction.

4. Perseverance

We don’t always succeed on the first try, or others are more skilled / stronger / faster than us. That doesn’t mean we resign ourselves in frustration — it means we become motivated to progress. There is no such thing as “I can’t”, only “I can’t, yet!“

5. Using Your Voice

Perhaps one of the most surprising outcomes of krav maga training is that everyone present learns how important it is to say what you want, in a fitting tone. There will never be a more important moment to trust yourself and use your voice than when someone tries to intimidate you!

If you are a parent of a young practitioner (or have attended training yourself), what in your opinion are the biggest transformations as a result of self-defense / krav maga training?

And if you haven’t visited us yet, we invite you (children, juniors, or adults) to a free trial session — it’s free, you have nothing to lose!

* Illustration by Cynthia Marinakos.