How Martial Arts Helps Kids with ADHD United Martial Arts Centers

How Martial Arts Helps Kids with ADHD



According to the American Academy of Pediatrics' Healthy Children
website, more than 6 million kids in the U.S. take some form of martial
arts classes. Although it might seem that these programs are primarily
physical, classes such as martial arts can help children develop the
concentration, self-control and focusing skills that can help to mediate
behaviors associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Background

Gaining a full understanding of what ADHD is and how it affects the
child is key to getting the full picture when it comes to looking at
this disorder and the benefits martial arts classes might have.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, ADHD is a fairly
common disorder that includes symptoms such as being easily distracted,
feeling forgetful, an inability to focus or pay attention for more than a
few minutes, trouble completing tasks such as homework, daydreaming,
fidgeting and constant movement or motion. This doesn't mean that the
typical ADHD child is constantly running around, screaming and switching
activities. Children with this disorder might also seem quiet, but
might lack the ability to concentrate or focus on even a simple task.
Not every child with ADHD will exhibit the same behaviors, making it
virtually impossible to find a one-size-fits-all treatment. While
psychotherapy and medications are common, and often effective,
treatments, alternatives such as martial arts also are becoming popular
options for children.

Exercise

An activity such as martial arts is a physical pursuit. The exercise
that your child gets during her martial arts class, including kicking,
punching, jumping and other movements, might actually help abilities
such as focusing and attention. According to "ADDitude" magazine,
engaging in physical exercise will cause the brain to release chemicals
known as endorphins, as well as dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin.
These chemicals, which are often low in kids with ADHD, can help
regulate mood and increase attention and concentration.

Discipline

One of the major facets of martial arts, as a martial art, is the
expectation of discipline on the part of the student. The martial arts
have a long history that includes physical and mental discipline. The
discipline that is necessary for a child to participate in martial arts
can help him to build focus, concentration and attention abilities.
Frequent training can take these skills out of the dojo -- or training
area -- and into the child's daily life at school and at home.

Structure

Although kids, even those with ADHD, need unstructured or free play
time, a structured activity can help provide valuable predictability for
a child with ADHD. Not only does each class provide a sense of
structure for the child with ADHD, but the advancement structure --
setting goals and moving up one belt at a time -- provides an
environment that can help children with behavior issues focus and
concentrate on completing tasks.



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United Martial Arts Centers

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