Improve Childhood Fitness

According to Health Canada, the rate of obesity among children and youth in Canada has nearly tripled in the last 30 years. This is increasing occurrences of high blood pressure or heart disease, type 2 diabetes, bone and joint problems, reduced balanced.

Martial Arts is a well-balanced exercise program that not only burns fat, but also builds muscle, strengthens bone density, improves balance, and develops the mind-body connection, improving hand-eye coordination.

Kung Fu for your child is like a gift that keeps on giving. They not only improve physically, but they develop healthy dietary and exercise habits that will last them a life time, keeping them healthy long into the future.

“In just a few short months since Kyle has started with NKFA, he has shown significant improvement in his confidence, respect and courage!”
- Sonia Wilkinson, Niagara Falls

Improve Mental Health

While awareness of the Mental Health Crisis in Canada is increasing, so too are the symptoms of it.

A large contributor to the crisis is a lack of physical activity and exercise, leading to low self esteem and negative body image, depression, feelings of being judged.

Kung Fu and Karate uses a very old system of rewards and incentives, which might now now in the modern day be referred to as "gamification". Although the term sounds new and trendy, the concept has been used in martial arts for over a century to improve the self image and feeling of fulfillment for the student.

Even if a child does yet appear to be showing signs of mental health issues, Kung Fu proactively prepares them with tools for self-reflection, meditation, resilience, and self-confidence to keep them mentally tough for a challenging world.

“William stands taller, acts more responsibly, is a lot more confident, and has a better sense of himself, his goals, and his dreams.” - Jon Lawrence, Niagara Falls

Reduce Screen Time

The number #1 complaint we have currently from parents is that their kids are spending too much time on screens. This leads to aggravated and rude behaviour, a lack of responsibility, and impaired physical development. Kung Fu and Karate provides a healthy outlet for kids to get the exercise they need while doing it in a fun way that will teach them Long Term Goal Setting and the importance of Self-Discipline and Delayed Gratification (choosing what we want most over what we want now).

The ranking and reward system functions much like the scoring system of any video game, where the user is encouraged to continue and improve to improve their outcome (their score).

This is often why even the most nonathletic kids thrive in Martial Art, because it is their own personal journey of challenges and rewards where they do not need to compare themselves to others.

"My son had no interest in any type of sport or being active other than with his thumbs :-). After being enrolled at Niagara Kung Fu Academy he has made new friends, has lots of fun during class and feels good about learning new moves and earning reward stripes. In the future with the help of Niagara Kung Fu  Academy I hope to have an active child, learn how to be confident about himself and be a respectful future adult... This is a great experience. My child is learning life skills and having fun at the same time. He looks forward to each class." - O. Boisvert, Niagara Falls

Bully Prevention

Bulling Canada has warned that Bullying, if left unchecked, can lead to a list of Long-Term Negative Health Effects on Children. These include Mental Health Issues, relationship problems, poor career prospects, and physical health issues. Kung Fu, Karate, and Jiu Jitsu training not only teaches effective self defence techniques that your child can use to protect themselves, but kids also learn tactics in conflict resolution and deescalation.

"Kerri-Ann’s confidence grew and she became a different child with lower anxiety, her grades improved and she was making new friends at Kung fu and school. I couldn’t believe the difference!" -Crystal Gaudet, Niagara Falls

Top 10 Reasons why Kung Fu Training and Martial Arts is Life-Changing for Kids

1. Empowerment: Kung Fu teaches kids self-defense techniques, building confidence and self-reliance.

2. Physical fitness: Kung Fu is a great workout, improving flexibility, strength, and coordination.

3. Discipline and focus: Kung Fu training helps develop self-discipline, concentration, and mental clarity.

4. Self-expression: Kung Fu allows kids to express themselves through movement and physical expression.

5. Community: Joining a Kung Fu class provides a supportive community and opportunities for socialization.

6. Cultural connection: Kung Fu has a rich cultural heritage, offering a unique connection to Chinese history and traditions.

7. Stress relief: Kung Fu training can help reduce stress and anxiety, promoting overall well-being.

8. Goal setting: Kung Fu's belt ranking system encourages kids to set and achieve goals, developing a growth mindset.

9. Resilience: Kung Fu teaches kids to embrace challenges, persevere through difficulties, and develop resilience.

10. Fun: Most importantly, Kung Fu is a fun and engaging activity that can bring joy and excitement to kids' lives!