I can't even do a summersault!

Weird headline I know but if you only knew how true that statement is for about 70% of the students that sign up for our martial arts  program.  Now this statement primarily applies to children under ten and is a much more telling sign of the changes in our social environment.  When I was a kid a summersault was just standard fun down any big hill or used in any potentially overly dramatic situation I just happen to be involved in at the time.  You know like ditching your bike to avoid that impending crash on the nice fluffy side of the yard.  In this moment of high adventure, you could show off your skills on the Captain Kirk Evasion roll or at the very least give your parents pause to wonder what was going on with you and your friends.  I bet your wondering how I am going to spin this back to martial arts right?  Well when children join our martial arts program its important for us to understand that the world has changed and what was and what is are two dramatically different things.  In fact physical skill level and socializing are done completely differently now and thats not a bad thing, it just is.  Rarely in my neighborhood do I see kids going down the block to a buddies house to play in the front yard.  Its rare to see people tossing a football or rough housing with a sibling.  I know that a lot of you are probably saying "see kids now a days............." and you would be wrong.  Kids now a days are evolving with the constructs they need to move forward and through life.  Thats neither right nor wrong it just is.  The focus given to a particular facet of these changes whether to little or to much is the issue.  Moderation in all things as the quote goes is key to balance in life.   Physical fitness and overall health is important to getting the most out of what your child will invest their time in over the rest of their life.  With all the distractions and things that via for you child's attention it is important to give them an outlet that gives them tools to navigate the real issues they will encounter in life.  Thats why martial arts can go hand in hand with the ever changing social aspect and technological advancements and still be relevant, cool and fun all while providing an individual a path to their own personal success.  Until next time take care, Master T