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Health & Fitness

White Belts Wanted...Martial Arts Benefits Kids!

Master Chris Berlow, UMAC Briarcliff, Neighbor

Posted Tue, May 6, 2014 at 2:47 pm ET

It starts with, “Mom, can I learn karate?” Or maybe your child is pleading with you, “Dad, these kids keep bullying me!”

Perhaps you are worried about your child’s school work, or your child has attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or you wish they were more respectful…(don't all parents wish this?)

When you and your child decide that the Martial Arts may be a fun and entertaining activity, now what? There are many schools and styles to choose from. The important thing to know is that Martial Arts training offers tremendous benefits beyond self-defense and physical training. Other notable benefits include:

improved focus
confidence
increased physical activity

Students learn Martial Arts philosophy, overcome fears, make new friends, and become bullyproof. Your child will become more self-disciplined, have more self-respect, and develop self-esteem, and with their new confidence, the ability to defend themselves. And yes, learning Taekwondo includes knowing how to avoid a fight.

The method and style of teaching may be more important than the actual type of Martial Arts. The instructor’s teaching philosophy should match your morals and ideals. I recommend visiting schools and observing classes, both beginner and advanced. And I am always happy to meet with you and answer your questions. Teaching Taekwondo is my passion and I have been training since I was 13.

“Whoever is careless with the truth in small matters cannot be trusted with important matters.” - Albert Einstein

If you've read my blog you know I believe in teaching and practicing Black Belt Character and I hope these traits are important to you too:

Integrity
Self-Control
Indomitable Spirit
Respect
Perseverance

Black Belt Character is my guiding principle and I welcome the opportunity to share it with you and your child. This is part of my Worthy Ideal.

Welcome All White Belts!

Summer is a great time to learn Taekwondo. And if you are looking for a fun, safe, summer camp experience, look no further. In addition to all the great camp activities, campers learn Taekwondo too. UMAC Summer Camp Registration is open.

To learn more about Black Belt Character, you might enjoy reading “It’s Not About the Belt...You Don’t Need a Black Belt to Act Like One” which offers details and my personal stories on living a Black Belt life.

Look for my weekly blog providing insights on "Living a Black Belt Life". Please share this with your friends and family.

Thank you for this opportunity to serve you.

Master Chris Berlow

UMAC Briarcliff