Hi Total Impact families — we have awesome news! Back at popular demand, Specialty martial arts classes are returning this summer. We’re launching a thrilling summer series of martial arts weapons classes for kids beginning on June 11th – every Wednesday at 3 PM!
If your kid is a superhero, ninja, or a fan of checking out new cool moves, this is their time!. Imagine it as a unique summer martial arts training camp where children have hands-on experience with real equipment (foam-covered, naturally). For existing students, it’s a fun challenge added to normal classes, and for new families, it’s a special opportunity to immerse themselves in specialty martial arts training just in time for summer, focusing on advanced techniques safely.
These are not your average kid classes — we are doing advanced martial arts moves and making it fun. You will hear your kid mention weapons practice at breakfast: “Today I learned to spin the staff!” or “I broke that board!” We recall our own thrill when grabbing a bo staff or learning a new kata as children, and we wish your children to experience that thrill as well. Research demonstrates that martial arts instruction aids children in attaining attention, discipline, and physical fitness, so this program is not just fun — it is enormously valuable. The principles we teach in our children’s programs are carried into every day life lessons at school, at home, and in the world.
Weapons Covered
Our specialty summer program offers a wide range of martial arts training. Each week introduces a different weapon or martial arts technique, taught by experienced instructors. Here is a glimpse of what we offer in our classes:
Bo Staff (Long Stick): A traditional bo, which is little more than a six-foot wooden staff, has long been used for defense and training throughout East Asia. In our class, kids learn to handle and maneuver the staff safely under supervision. The experience is as exciting as using a Jedi lightsaber, and kids get some wonderful movement practice! Working on the bo exercise requires digging into their back, arms, and coordination to establish balance. The bo’s history goes back a long way. As recorded in history, the “bo” was being used in Asia from time immemorial. We have several bo styles for different skill levels – foamy are for young beginners, wooden bo for those who’ve advanced, which means that children of 7 and older can join.
Nunchaku: Two brief sticks (historically wood) linked by a chain or cord. Developed in Okinawa and popularized by Bruce Lee, nunchaku were initially farm implements until they became martial arts essentials. In our classes, students spin and grasp the nunchaku (foam for safety) to enhance hand-eye coordination and reflexes. It’s tough but really cool, and an excellent builder of confidence when they finally nail a smooth two-handed spin. (We ensure children understand safety and focus first; the aim is skill, not mayhem!)
Board Breaking: One of the most awesome aspects of martial arts is breaking boards. We arrange boards at karate waist-height so children can break them with a focused punch or kick. Board breaking is about technique and concentration, not brute force. As one martial arts instructor points out, breaking a board “requires accuracy, concentration, and power” and allows students to overcome self-doubt. Each break is monitored, ensuring good form, and each successful crack provides a huge confidence boost. It’s evidence that with the proper focus (and a little bit of courage!), they can break through barriers — literally!
Tournament Sparring & Kata: We don’t forget the sport aspect. Children will drill kata (pre-determined forms) and light-contact sparring, tournament format. Kata is sort of a performance: a series of steps against make-believe foes. It develops muscle memory and coordination. Sparring (pad work and under instructor supervision) is an active method of applying technique and acquiring strategy. Imagine it as an instructor-supervised karate “tag” game. Martial arts instructors tell us that tournament competition pushes it all — fitness, timing, technique, and mental resilience — so our sparring sessions are a chance to hone all of that in a game-like atmosphere. Kids learn composure and sportsmanship, and how to apply skills safely.
NinjaTrix: We even include our NinjaTrix circuit — a mix of martial arts, gymnastics, and obstacle training. Envision tiny obstacle courses with balance beams, vault boxes, and trampoline jumps, all dotted with kicks and punches. NinjaTrix allows children to run, jump, climb, kick, spin, and essentially be kids while developing agility and confidence. It’s ideal for children who love parkour and stunts. And sure, they still learn valuable karate principles (discipline, respect) as they zip through the course.
Benefits of Safe Weapons Training for Kids & Teens
Apart from the fun, these classes have substantial benefits. Research and experience have shown that training in martial arts teaches practical skills to children. Our weapons training promotes:
- Confidence: Every board break, every new trick, every belt advancement sends self-confidence soaring. When kids see that they can break a board or do a spinning kick they once thought impossible, it empowers them. Board-breaking specifically “teaches children to surmount self-doubt,” boosting confidence with each success.
- Focus & Concentration: Martial arts require children to be in their heads. In sparring drills and board-breaking, the students are taught to block out distractions and focus entirely on their objective. Researchers point out that it is critical to stay focused while breaking boards (and martial arts as a whole). We teach them to clear their minds, and this improved attention in school and elsewhere.
- Discipline & Respect: We instill respect for instructors, fellow students, and even opponents at the dojo. Children learn to obey quickly and be polite. Martial arts programs actually instill discipline and respect in children consistently within weeks. That discipline translates outside of class: parents observe their children establish healthier habits, improve listening skills, and exhibit more self-control at home and school.
- Strength & Fitness: Punching to jumping, martial arts training is a full-body exercise. Children develop agility, balance, strength, and endurance without even realizing it because they’re having so much fun. A scientific review concluded that martial arts classes greatly improve children’s overall fitness, including cardiovascular endurance, strength, flexibility, and coordination. So, while they think they’re playing or doing ninja tricks, they’re actually getting very, very fit.
In general, students learn goal-setting, respect, and perseverance. They move out of their comfort zone by attempting new challenges, and they are able to witness actual progress (earning stripes and belts!). It’s a character and confidence package!
Who Can Join Total Impact & How to Register for Specialty Classes
Good news: these classes are available to all students age 7 and older, whether they’re complete beginners or already black belts. We organize the training so that every child receives individual attention. Not sure if it’s a good fit? We’ve got you covered with a free trial class — try it before signing up!
When & How: The sessions begin on Wednesday, June 11, and continue every Wednesday at 3:00 PM during the summer session. Keep in mind that these are summer classes only (once summer is over, we will not have this schedule available again until next year). Due to the popularity of these summer martial arts classes, we advise signing up early so you can guarantee your position.
Eligibility: Current Total Impact students must be enrolled at least in 2+ classes/week to qualify for this class. For example, students attending 2 days a week may come to 1 special class and 1 regular class. For students interested in the Wednesday specialty classes, please call Shihan Brian to discuss fees if you’re a non-member or attend only 1 day/week. Sign up with Shihan Brian!
Ready to provide your child with a summer of confidence-building experience? Parents of previous students rave about the changes they witness — from shy children blooming into self-assured dojang leaders, to fidgety children directing their excess energy into success. We want your child to experience the same successes.
Give us a call to register now. Spots are limited, and the countdown to June 11th is on! Don’t let your child miss out on this unique summer training experience — it might just be their favorite summer memory. See you on the mats!
