martial arts

[aaronlc1]

is there any parents out there that are having children in martial arts. I personally started when I was seven and went till I was eighteen, and I still practice, but I just do not know if my four year old is ready or should I wait longer, for she is actually almost five.

[Don-Dad]

I started my son when he was 4 (closer to 5 years old). He is no longer partcipating. He lasted about 1 year and I could tell he just did not like it anymore. I think he was too young. I am glad I had him start though because now I'm a TKD student and loving it.

I think a good time to start martial arts is probably 9 or 10 years old. I have seen some very good students that are under that age but I'd say 80% get bored and have a hard time grasping martial arts beyond a round house kick or a simple punch. What I mean by grasping is why you do certain self defense moves and forms.

Probably would not hurt to try an intro class and see how she likes it.

[Tim E]

I have 2 boys, 6 & 8, who have been doing TKD and now Karate (we moved) for about a year now. Both really enjoy it and are really into it - I think its the sparring that will eventually come that keeps them motivated..... :) I think 4 might be a little young - most of the schools I checked into started at 5-7 . We did gymnastics at that age which really works on body awareness, coordination, strength, and is pretty fun too.
It kind of ties in with the tumbling/fall part of the martial arts for the boys now.

Tim

[SouthernGaDad]

My 8 year old son takes Tang Soo Doo. He really enjoys it and we enjoy watching him...

[Bollux]

my son takes Hoo Flung Poo.... does that count?

:lol:

[woodchuck]

Hey Bollux, can he do a round house fling back to the changer?

[Bollux]

most definitely, a black belt in hoo flung poo and won teat yoo

[jungle jim]

I think it depends on the child. I think most kids dont have the fine motor skills until about age 5-6.