Confidence is one of the most important gifts that we can give to our children and ourselves. We know that for a child, confidence is a major ingredient for a successful life. Children who are enrolled in martial arts often discuss how martial arts developes leadership skills. This is because, at an early age at least, a child’s level of confidence is most affected by control over their environment.

A young person must feel the ability to achieve most of the goals that he or she sets. Being accepted as who we are by the people who are important to us is also an essential ingredient. The only difference between life as a gang member and life as a world class athlete may be the absence or presence of a supportive family environment.

A child must also have self-confidence to resist the temptations of gangs and drugs. The confident child has the ability to focus on “the big picture” instead of fretting over temporary setbacks. They are able to evaluate their own achievements according to his or her abilities, not in comparison to the abilities of other people.

But where can they get it? Where does confidence come from? A wonderful way to develop it in a child is to enroll them in a martial arts program. The training helps to build self-confidence from the inside out by setting achievable goals in a supportive environment. Studies have shown that the skills learned in the classes have a direct positive effect on a child’s self esteem, mental development and academic performance.

Parents who enroll their children in classes have noticed substantial increases in self confidence and self esteem and have cited those two changes as among the most desirable effects. At most clubs, the benefits of self improvement are stressed. Students learn that the only person they are competing against is themselves and that they have the power to change anything and everything in their lives.

They are shown that realizing dreams is possible; that it’s not what we do once in a while that shapes our lives, but our consistent actions. This is why martial arts are so popular all over the world and have been for centuries. However, you don’t have to be a child to reap the benefits of the sport as there are exciting programs available for teens and adults.

For the teenager, the sport provides activities that give healthy alternatives to hanging out at the mall or sitting in front of the TV, playing video games. Adults who begin martial arts training see remarkable improvements in strength, stamina and flexibility in a very short time.

Physical fitness is not the only benefit however, as participants notice improvements in concentration, reduction of stress, an increase in self discipline and the self confidence that comes from the knowledge that if need be, you can protect yourself and your loved ones. It allows people to become leaders and this is transformed into other aspects of their lives.

When you discuss how martial arts develops leadership skills you can ask yourself this question, “so what’s training in the arts about?” Well, it’s about self esteem. It’s about self-confidence. It’s about self defence and it’s about leadership. It’s definitely not about violence.

Author Bio: This article was written by Dustin Fennell owner and operator of Martial Arts Equipment Direct. We provide martial artists with the highest quality gear at a great price. Check out or great selection of martial arts shoes and Demo Uniforms in the latest styles at our everyday low prices.

Category: Leadership
Keywords: ma,martial arts,developes leadership,leadership skills,