The word confidence is defined as “belief in oneself and one’s powers or abilities. So what exactly is it about karate that promotes such confidence in kids?
To begin with, successful completion of rank gives students a feeling of accomplishment. Every few months, a student is promoting in rank and therefore, bursting with confidence and an “I can” attitude.
Karate gives you the confidence to handle uncomfortable or unnerving situations. Whether it’s the awkward task of performing in front of a group of students or as you move higher in rank, the pressure of stepping into a ring with somebody and actually having to spar with them. This confidence also helps kids in school with grades and when necessary, to stand up to others or in front of a class.
Another important confidence builder in karate is it doesn’t matter if you are as “talented” as some others in the class. Although there are many group aspects to karate class, karate is about individual success. You will never be “benched” for making an error; will never feel inferior to other students in the class. You will be praised and complimented on your accomplishments and your successes.
Confidence is built into everything we do in a karate school because confidence in one’s self will lead to success and victory in every aspect of life.
Lori Miley is the Program Director and an Instructor at Jim Smith Karate.
