Does Karate Make Bullies out of Kids?

Believe it or not, this is one of the top questions we receive as a karate school.

The old Karate Kid movies showed two very different philosophies about karate. Mr. Miyagi’s Karate and the Cobra Kai dojo were on completely opposite sides of the spectrum. Well… just like all organizations and businesses, there are some that build people up, treat them well and show genuine honor and respect to the people they serve. There are also other organizations that do the exact opposite.  Just the other day I called a business and based on the person’s tone of voice and shortness, I felt like I was bothering him. I certainly didn’t want to give my business to this company.  Have you experienced this?

True karate as it originated in Okinawa, Japan was developed out of a need and was strictly used for self defense.  The Okinawan people were a very peaceful people and they developed a system to defend themselves and their families from those who had ill intent (bullies). Honor, Respect, Humility are engrained in karate and should never be separated from the physical training. These are very important, if not the most important, aspects of the training we have at Shorinkan Family Karate. Yes we block, punch and kick. But if we fail to build character into our students, we have done them a disservice.

True karate absolutely gives your children the tools to succeed. The students learn how to defend themselves so they don’t become a victim to a bully.  They also learn self-control so they don’t become the bully.  Their confidence is high so it enables them to control their emotions in any situation and walk away if needed.  These character traits are extremely valuable. They will become part of who they are and will follow them and the decisions they make for the rest of their lives.

Unfortunately there are schools that do not promote that kind of character. There are the Cobra-Kai schools that want to make bullies, criticize others and claim superiority regardless of who gets hurt. They want to tear down others and shame their students. That is not what karate is about nor is it what we teach at our school. When looking for a karate school make sure it is one that builds up their students, promotes character development and has respect for all people even if they don’t agree. It will teach your children to do the same.

Does Karate Make Bullies out of Kids?  No.  Bullies make other bullies.

For more on this subject, read these 7 Things to Know before Choosing a Martial Arts School. Have an awesome day!