Why Should Kids Do Jiu-Jitsu?: The Top 10 Reasons Jiu-Jitsu Is The Best Sport For Kids

As of 2023, 81% of kids ages 11 to 17 are inactive. This is merely one alarming statistic that is projected to worsen over time. With the frightening increase in obesity and obesity-related illnesses/deaths in American adults, it is our job to be proactive in leading the future generation in the right direction. We have to set them up with healthy habits. 

Most parents are eager to enroll their kids in sports as soon as possible but are left to debate which activities to get them involved in. Instead of opting solely for games like football, basketball, or softball, consider a sport that will follow them for their entire lives, even after they graduate high school.

Consider another statistic– 1 in 5 kids is bullied. We all know the dangers of bullying in adolescents. We know bullying can kill the growth of children and teenagers, leaving them feeling helpless– like victims. Bullying ranges in severity. In our violent world, it is our duty as grappling instructors to equip all of our students with the skills to defend themselves and refuse to become another statistic. 

Beyond self-defense, Jiu-Jitsu is incomparable when looking for an activity for your children. There are countless benefits to raising kids with Jiu-Jitsu. If you are still considering the possibilities, here are some top reasons to get your kids involved.

1. Improves their overall athleticism: Jiu-jitsu is vital for athletic growth, directly impacting strength, mobility, flexibility, and endurance. 

2. Encourages discipline: Kids need someone besides their parents to give them authority. Jiu-jitsu is a structured sport that will teach them when it is time to play and when it is time to work.

3. It gets them involved in a community: Joining a team of like-minded kids is a great way to build meaningful, lifelong friendships.

4. Builds confidence: Jiu-jitsu drastically increases the confidence of children and adults alike. It will help them become self-assured in their abilities and allow them to take on the world from a new perspective.

5. Imparts problem-resolution skills: Jiu-jitsu is similar to chess. Through the sport, students learn to recognize problems and evaluate how to best solve the issue at hand.

6. Teaches respect: Humility and respect are essential pillars of martial arts. We teach students the importance of respect, knowing strength and size are not the best indicators of a true fighter. 

7. Fosters resilience: During developmental years, young kids must face mental and physical challenges to cultivate perseverance. Start with a physical sport that will break them down to build them back up better than before.

8. Prepares them to deal with failure: In Jiu-Jitsu, losing is inevitable. Prepare your kids for real life by teaching them loss is normal and okay. What truly matters is how you compose yourself and what you do after you lose.

9. Helps with stress relief/regulating emotions: Physical activity releases dopamine and helps regulate stress. Additionally, martial arts gives kids an outlet to release energy. Through Jiu-Jitsu, we teach kids when to be physical. Physicality is not bad but deserves a proper place and time.

10. Equips them with self-defense skills: As initially stated, Jiu-Jitsu is the best way for anyone to learn how to defend themself against opponents of all different skills and sizes.

Conclusively, the signs are clear. It is essential to get your children involved in Jiu-Jitsu.

At Pride Lands MMA, our youth instructors were raised in the Jiu-JItsu world and know the direct impact martial arts have had on their lives as kids. They know what it is like to be in their students' shoes and are devoted to them, whether that means creating a welcoming environment to teach students new skills or doing their part to raise the next future champions. 

If you are located in Scranton, Dunmore, Clarks Summit, Old Forge, Moscow, or any more of the surrounding areas and are wondering, "Where are kids Jiu-Jitsu classes near me,” consider stopping by Pride Lands MMA for a free trial class! Our Little Lions classes are every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 5 pm to 6 pm. We start accepting at 7 years old but will consider 6-year-olds depending on their size and focus. Contact us today at 570.904.0435 and watch the power of Jiu-Jitsu change your child's life!