Mixed martial arts, or MMA, is a rapidly growing sport that combines various techniques from a wide range of disciplines, such as karate, jujitsu, judo, tae kwon do, and more.

As a parent, you may be wondering which martial art is best to start with for your child. The answer is that it ultimately depends on your child's interests and goals, but MMA offers a unique and holistic approach to martial arts training.

As an extracurricular activity, MMA not only promotes physical fitness, but also mental and emotional well-being.

Regular training in MMA can reduce the risk of obesity, cancer, diabetes, and heart disease, and increase self-confidence and assertiveness. Additionally, children who learn MMA are less likely to be bullied, as they have the skills to defend themselves.

Contrary to popular belief, MMA does not make children violent.

In fact, studies have shown that children who engage in MMA training tend to be more disciplined, have higher self-esteem, and are less likely to start fights. Furthermore, for children who struggle with attention disorders such as ADHD, MMA can provide a valuable outlet for focusing their energy and attention.

When considering enrolling your child in an MMA program, it is important to do your research.

Look for martial arts near by, and speak with the instructors to ensure they are qualified and experienced in teaching children. Also, it is recommended to observe a few classes before signing your child up. Some gyms may offer introductory classes at no extra charge, which is a great opportunity to see if your child is interested.

Another option to consider when thinking which martial art is best to start with is Krav Maga.

Krav Maga is an Israeli-developed combat system that teaches students how to escape from an attacker and flee to safety. This can be a great option for children who are looking for a more focused self-defense training.

Ultimately, the most important factor is that your child enjoys and is engaged in the activity.

But it also helps that it’s a local and convenient school for martial arts near by. If MMA is not the right fit, there are many other martial arts programs to explore, such as karate, tae kwon do, or even yoga. The key is to find a program that aligns with your child's interests and goals, and that promotes overall emotional, psychological, and physical well-being.