The kids are all write: Mandatory martial arts

I do martial arts and personally think it is fun and can get me out of some tricky situations. But would it be fair if it were mandatory for every child in school to learn one martial art? Would it be as fun as it is now?

First, the positives: if you know a martial art, you can defend yourself against bullies or strangers. In addition, it raises your self-esteem and if you are quite the soft type, it can make you into a more confident type, which can help in situations like performing or dancing.

Secondly, some people see martial arts as a type of dance and, if slowed down a bit, can look like you are trying to dance gracefully and softly. Another key factor is it can work on your mental and physical health. Mentally it can make you push yourself and be more confident in everything you do. Physically, it helps keep your body in good weight plus getting you to exercise for your body daily.

In addition, if you do a martial art you will be more feared, so when it comes to bullies picking on someone, they will not target you or your friends. Finally, if you are trying to make your son or daughter more respectful, it can work on their ability while teaching them obedience. 

If you do a martial art, you will be more feared

Now let us talk about some disadvantages and why some would not want to do it: some people just dislike martial arts and would prefer football or other sports. Some people are just too lazy. Secondly, martial arts are challenging and could take six to seven years to achieve a black belt, which is a very long time to achieve one belt. Thirdly, some see it as a pointless sport and you are learning a lot for a little (that is mastering many moves for one belt) and the “final belt” still has not been achieved since there are many belts to achieve after the black. 

In conclusion, I personally think it should be mandatory because giving up an hour a day to exercise and build confidence is not a giant sacrifice. With all the benefits it has, it is a big surprise to me that most people do not try it. Maybe it’s time to make at least one class mandatory in or after school.

Thank you for reading my article and have a lovely day. 

Nine students from Portslade Aldridge Community Academy have been writing their own articles about something that matters to them, as part of Little Green Pig’s weekly after-school Tuesday club. For more info about the projects being set up for young writers across the city, go to littlegreenpig.org.uk