This is a common question when parents are shopping martial arts schools for their children. And, we hear it all of the time.
There's a lot more to consider when thinking about which school is the best fit for your family. You have to consider location, class times and costs. The "style" question is often an opener to get the conversation started.
But, it's important to remember that some schools emphasize things that might not be important to you, regardless of style.
And, once you've decided that your child(ren) should learn martial arts, you want the very best for them. So, if you ever need help or more information, we're here to chat about the choice.
Before I get into the style or type of martial arts we teach, let's talk about our approach.
First we split the children into four separate age-groups. This insures that the material they learn is developmentally appropriate.
Then, within each of those age groups is a framework of goals setting that uses short, medium and long term goals. This combination builds their confidence and helps them to be happy, healthy and successful in the future.
Finally, as the student progresses through the program they will develop leadership skills. These skills are both learned and demonstrated through our near-peer mentoring programs.
What is style?
Style in martial arts refers to the proper name of the art and the aspects it emphasizes. Style describes the physical attributes of a martial art. Conversely, approach is about the teaching methodology.
Taekwondo uses more kicks and long range techniques.
Muay Thai Kickboxing uses more upper body strikes and close range techniques
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is more like wrestling but has a strong self-defense component.
At the Dragon Gym, we teach all three of these martial arts.
While every martial art has gaps, these three arts complement each other and fill in the gaps quite well.
Over the years, we've found it's best to give children a well-rounded foundation in martial arts. So, we've developed the program to be about 1/3 Taekwondo, 1/3 Muay Thai, and 1/3 Brazilian Jiu Jitsu.
This broad base benefits the student mentally and physically.
Students don't get stuck in limited, repetitive movements. And, they have to think in both linear and non-linear patterns.
Plus, they get an opportunity to excel at what they'll naturally be good at --> building their confidence.
And, they'll be exposed to something that might be challenging --> building their resilience.
Then, as they progress they can start to specialize in Taekwondo or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Choosing a martial arts school can be a complicated choice.
Hopefully, this email lets you know a little bit more about what we do. We're interested in meeting and exceeding your expectations, so try us out and make sure we'll be a good match.
Sincerely,
Somnath Sikdar
President, Dragon Gym
"Be The Coffee."
PS. The next step is to check out the class schedules and grab the intro program at one of our schools (Exton, Malvern, Berwyn, or Phoenixville). Just click below.
