Movies depict martial arts as something exciting and dangerous, but this Hollywood image comes nowhere close to what this discipline really teaches. In real life, martial arts training focuses on respect others, respect oneself, and regulation of one’s emotions and impulses – never on violence.  It’s no wonder many San Mateo kids take martial arts classes to gain self-confidence and self-discipline. If you think your child can benefit from the lessons imparted by martial arts, look into schools below and see if their program is a match for your child’s needs.

Kuk Sool Won of San Mateo

You’re probably already familiar with tae kwon do, but were you aware that there is another Korean martial art system that can cultivate a child’s strength and mental well-being? This system is called kuk sool, a martial art that combines punching, kicking, falling, throwing, and joint-locking into a dynamic style that emphasizes fluidity and speed.  Kuk Sool Won of San Mateo is the only martial arts school in the city to teach this style using a series of age-appropriate games, exercises, and drills.

Your child can enroll in one of three programs, depending on his or her age. The Tiny Tigers program for children ages 4 to 6 focuses on listening skills and self-control rather than the techniques itself.  Upon completing the class, children will have learned to follow basic instructions, exercise self-control, and focus on the teacher.  The Little Dragons Program for kids’ age 5 to 8 is designed to develop strength, flexibility, as well as balance and memory. In order to move and think as a martial artist, children must learn to master all of these skills.  Once a student has graduated from this program, he or she may move on to the Junior Program for kids’ age 9 to 13, a more intensive course that focuses on specific techniques and self-defense moves.

Learn more about Kuk Sool Won of San Mateo by calling (650) 570-5991. The website http://www.smkuksool.com also contains information about their programs.

Tat Wong Kung Fu Academy

For thousands of years, the Chinese martial art kung fu has provided the perfect blend of powerful techniques and a deep philosophy of respect and inner strength.   Your child can benefit from this martial art at Tat Wong Kung Fu Academy, established by renowned kung fu master Tat-Mau Wong.  Kung fu classes are available for children ages 4 and older, and are divided according to skill level and age.   Whether children are just starting out or have had previous training, all Tat Wong students learn more than just how to kick and punch. The curriculum is designed to keep kids healthy and fit, and kung fu’s philosophy of courage and focus is continuously reinforced during instruction.  

Register for your child’s first class at http://www.tatwong.com or call (650) 341-9292.  If you register online, however, the school’s program director will call you up for a tour of their facilities and give you a special discount.

Peninsula Small Circle Jiu-Jitsu

If you want your child’s martial arts training to be put into good use, consider jiu-jitsu, a Brazilian style that focuses on ground fighting and grappling. Many jiu-jitsu classes, such as the one offered for children by Peninsula Small Circle Jiu-Jitsu, focus on self-defense training rather than competition.  The children’s class is only 30 minutes long and conveniently located at 7:20 pm.  Taught by instructor Rob Gale, kids will learn the art of grappling and the proper techniques required to ward off bullies and other assailants.

To enroll your child at Peninsula Small Circle Jiu-Jitsu, call 650-212-3147.

These are just a few of the wonderful choices San Mateo kids who are interested in Martial Arts can explore.