Martial Arts for the Disabled

Karate is for everyone!

Martial Arts In general has many benefits for all ages and physical abilities such as discipline, self-control, self-respect and numerous other. What we often see in the movies as a martial artist strong, tall, agile, and able to perform amazing aerial stunts. Not every student is able to perform these incredible acrobatics for various reasons. The Hollywood version does not show one of the key pillars of martial arts: they are for everyone, regardless of physical or mental abilities.
Some special challenges with which Martial Arts has been successful:

 

 

                                                          Autism:

The autism spectrum contains a lot of repetitive behaviors, as does martial arts. Many martial art forms or techniques must be performed many, many times, in order to achieve fluency and mastery. Stereotypy is the measure of how frequently someone in the autism spectrum exhibits repetitive motions, which can be a detriment to them. A study by the University of Isfahan showed that
students who learned karate kata, or patterns, which requires a large amount of repetition, exhibit a large and significant reduction in stereotypy after one month of training. With lifelong learning, martial arts and autism create a lasting symbiotic relationship that greatly benefits students.
With a constant pursuit in martial arts, self-esteem tends to be boosted as proficiency increases. Allowing the student to become more sure of themselves through practice is an important part of a healthy lifestyle and socialization for kids. This combined with their consistent social interactions can help children come out of their shell, becoming more social.

 

 

 

 

                                                        Down Syndrome:

Natalie Olson competes in the para-karate category at the World Championships in Linz, Austria in October 2016. She trains at the South Calgary Wado Kai club.

Martial arts instructors tailor techniques to fit the student instead of molding the student to fit the technique. Children suffering from Down’s Syndrome can benefit from learning martial arts as it helps them in development as well as coordination.
What makes martial arts unique from other sports or exercises is its
Ability to develop your brain power. Therefore, this means that if your child has a mental disability, martial arts can help him or her after a few days of practice.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                          Paralyzation and other Physical Impairments/Disabilities:

Martial Arts also offer the added benefit of being useful for therapy, both physical and mental. Improved coordination and strength, as well as basic motor functions, take time and dedicated practice but the rewards are well worth the effort. Increases in self-control and the development of new abilities can also reduce anxiety and create more positive attitudes. As well as being therapeutic, Martial Arts help with confidence and self-defense, both of which can be useful when an assailant targets a disabled person for being a stereotypically easy target.

 

 

 

What we offer at Traditional Martial Arts & Fitness:

We offer Para Karate training for people with different kinds of disabilities! After all Karate is for everyone.
Teaching methods and what is being taught is different depending on each individual’s needs. Some would require private sessions and some would benefit more in group sessions.
Contact us now, book an appointment to visit us and consult with our Karate Instructor to see how we can help you or your loved ones.