Building self-discipline with karate in both childhood and adulthood

Self-discipline is a quality that many times seems to elude us.  Even as responsible adults, we find ourselves using our time inefficiently, setting goals and forgetting about them, and avoiding what we have to do because it’s boring or slightly unpleasant.

Think about how much harder self-discipline is for kids, whose brains are still developing.  They’re just starting to learn how to organize their lives on their own and concentrate on completing tasks that may not thrill them, such as a long homework assignment or the small chores they’re assigned to do around the house.  Many of our own issues with self-discipline can be traced back to when we were kids and teenagers; the bad habits we cultivated in our younger years often stay with us as adults.

Why is it important to build self-discipline?

With self-discipline comes self-respect.  We become more effective in the world, we accomplish more, and we’re able to tolerate more boredom and discomfort.  Self-discipline can also save us from damaging choices; with greater self-discipline, we tend not to act without thinking first, and we’re capable of making better decisions about our physical and mental health.  So much of success in life, including school and work, stems from persistence; without the self-discipline to sit down and stick with a task, it doesn’t matter how smart we are, because we won’t accomplish much.

How does karate help develop self-discipline?

  • Different research studies (such as this one) provide evidence that many children, even those who struggle with medical issues, experience improvement in an array of qualities such as cognitive functioning and confidence after taking a course in karate.  Improving physical and mental health lays the groundwork for greater self-discipline as well; it’s easier to persist and stick to goals when you believe in yourself and feel stronger.
  • Karate teaches patience and persistence. Both kids and adults see that results don’t happen overnight, but only after weeks of training, with repeated practice.
  • In karate, students will make a lot of mistakes, but will also realize that mistakes are just a part of learning. Sometimes people procrastinate and lack self-discipline because they fear failure deep inside; by emphasizing that failure is necessary and expected, instead of something to be embarrassed about, karate can teach people to fear failure less.
  • Because karate can provide measurable goals, students have a clearer idea of what they’re working towards, and can better set goals in their own lives.
  • The instructors are inspiring role models who demonstrate self-discipline throughout the class.

Taking a course in karate then may not only improve your physical fitness, it will also make you mentally stronger and tougher, more willing to fight for your goals and persist in the face of hardship.

For more information or to register, call Kyoshi Karen at 410-499-2476 or email at pamfiliskarate@gmail.com

Kick it Up a Notch with a Karate Birthday Party

Is your child looking for an awesome place to have a birthday? He or she tired of the run of the mill birthday party at Chuck E. Cheese? Well, then why not try a Karate Birthday Party?

What on Earth is a karate birthday party you ask?  Karate birthday parties are parties that feature all the fun of a normal birthday party, but spiced up with fun karate themed activities! It’s a great way to get your kids invloved in something new and allow everyone to, child or parent, to have some fun.

So, what kind of kick butt activities can you expect from a karate birthday party? Well, of course, we feature a lot of fun karate themed activities that try to get the whole group (that means you too parents) involved in practicing karate. From your standard kicks to punches and maybe a few special moves thrown in as well.

Of course, it should be noted, nothing dangerous will ever be attempted at these parties. We’re not going to give your child a samurai sword and tell him to reenact his favorite cartoon fight. All activites are safe and will be monitored by adult supervision.

And what would a party be without cake? After all activities are done and everyone is ready to settle down, there will be time for cake and a chance for everyone to relax.

If this sounds like the right fit for your child’s birthday party, then stop on by our webpage and contact us today!

For more information or to register, call Kyoshi Karen at 410-499-2476 or email at pamfiliskarate@gmail.com

 

Cardio Exercise Can Help With Self Defense

When it comes to protecting yourself, you can leave nothing to chance.  Whether you want to take self defense classes, learn karate or some other type of martial art, you have to be in good shape.  This is why beginning cardio exercises on a regular basis is a smart and fun way to get back into, or stay, in shape.  Whether you want to go on a jog, ride a bike or take part in a fun game, developing a cardio routine is important.

Jogging/Running

A fun thing to do all by yourself, jogging or running is a great way to get your cardio strong.  It can be difficult to commit to in the beginning, but you will eventually see the results and payoff.

Biking

Biking is another fun thing to do on your own, but can be more effective with a partner.  With biking, having someone around to keep you motivated is great incentive to get in shape.  You can also enter yourself in biking competitions to help get your speed up and better than ever!

Participation In Games

Lastly, getting involved in fun sporting events is also a great way to get in better shape.  This could mean a weekly pick up basketball game, a flag football league or anything in between.  Being involved in one can help your cardio as well as your sportsmanship.

In the end, having good cardio can help you in all walks of life.  This includes getting your karate skills polished and ready to go.  If you have any questions, please contact us.

For more information or to register, call Kyoshi Karen at 410-499-2476 or email at pamfiliskarate@gmail.com

Meditation: Enhance Your Karate Experience By Clearing Your Mind

Most think of Karate as a tool for fighting opponents, either competitively or for self-defense. Karate can actually be an excellent social sport. Classes and tournaments offer plenty of opportunities to meet new people and make friends that share a common interest. Karate can also be a form of discipline: training your body and mind to work together in stressful situations. This is beneficial because one can achieve more self-control, awareness of surroundings, and ability to think clearly in situations where immediate or reflexed action usually prevails. Incorporate meditation into your karate routine by setting aside at least 5 minutes before or after your work out, tournament, or training session, you can achieve piece-of-mind, balance, and discipline.

*It would probably be best to meditate in the comfort of your own home.

  • Step 1: Find a quiet place to sit. Either sit with our back straight in an “Indian” style position or in a straight backed chair. Like in Karate, meditation has the best results with good posture. This allows the meditative calm to pass through your body unobstructed. The quieter the area the better, silence will allow you to concentrate better.
  • Step 2Close your eyes and regulate your breathing. When you inhale your diaphragm should expand, when you exhale it should deflate. Controlling your breathing is important, and it might take a few sessions before you get it down, but persist and you shall prevail!
  • Step 3Clear your mind and focus attention inward. Concentrating on nothing sounds like a difficult task but it is achievable. Use some type of timer (such as an application on your phone, there are many that assist with meditation) and only meditate for five minute at a time if you’re a beginner. You can work yourself up to longer sessions.

Maintain the discipline to implement a meditation schedule will definitely translate to your karate skills. Karate is one of the best activities to take part of, enhancing social, mental and physical skills. Try to add meditation to your karate lifestyle, and see a positive change today!

For more information or to register, call Kyoshi Karen at 410-499-2476 or email at pamfiliskarate@gmail.com

Adult Classes – Work On Yourself While You Wait

At Pamfilis Karate Academy we know that sometimes the toughest job in the world is being a parent. Between pick-ups, drop-offs, homework and all the extra-curricular activities, it’s hard to make time for yourself. That’s why we are currently offering a unique opportunity to parents to work on their mind, body and spirit. We invite you to enjoy 1 month of free training in our Seido karate method while you wait for your child to finish their own classes. This is your chance to not only take part in a one of a kind fitness class, but to share something special with your child.

Seido aims to help students develop strong bodies which will in turn translate to better health and well-being. That’s something everyone can benefit from, especially parents. Beyond that karate is a great way to increase your strength and flexibility. And it can also be a serious cardio workout! It’s truly one of best ways to spend an hour of your day.

On top of all these health benefits, taking Seido may help you forge a deeper bond with your youngster. As children get older parents often struggle to find ways to stay connected with them. Sharing a common interest is the perfect way to bond with your son or daughter.

Additionally our dojo offers a wide variety of adult classes to help you continue with your journey even after the month is over. So why not give it a try? We think you’ll like the results. Give us a call today to get started! FREE MONTH of training!

For more information or to register, call Kyoshi Karen at 410-499-2476 or email at pamfiliskarate@gmail.com