Martial arts training was frequently mentioned by young people with dyspraxia and their parents/carers as a positive activity with many physical and social benefits.
These include:
- Doing martial arts is “cool” and a way of getting children to do physical activities without it being called “therapy”, in particular it can help with: Developing balance, strength and core stability, Improving flexibility and coordination, Developing body and spatial awareness, Improving overall fitness
- The moves are often taught in stages, each building on the last one so that skills are developed over time
- Martial arts often have clear rules and structures. People with dyspraxia also benefit from the repetition and familiar routines
- Increase in self-esteem and confidence – lots of people are successful at football but not so many people have the opportunity to do well in martial arts
- Martial arts can help with stress and relaxation
- The ethos of martial arts is that each person is as good as the other, and the supportive, nurturing environment can be very beneficial for people with dyspraxia
- Opportunity to achieve awards and attend gradings are a great source of satisfaction and a confidence boost
- The focus is on individual development. People can start at any age so it is not so obvious when younger children move up grades more quickly.