Karate helps children be more successful in life Published Aug. 24, 2006 By Senior Airman John Gordinier 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- If a person walked into the aerobics room at the fitness center after 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, they would find adults along with children practicing karate. The class would start off with a few stretches to prevent injury and increase flexibility. Soon after, Tech. Sgt. J.D. Olsen, martial arts instructor, would teach the class the finer points of martial arts. "Karate gives a child many benefits to be successful in life," Sgt. Olsen said. Karate improves children's grades, he said. The karate curriculum is designed to teach children the importance of concentration. The improved concentration is learned and used in school activities. "In our school, children who receive As and Bs on their report cards receive a patch for their uniforms indicating they are academic achievers," Sgt. Olsen said. "Karate also improves children's health," he said. "Karate is a great workout. Your child will breathe better, eat better and sleep better. Children who take karate are slimmer, make better decisions about food and learn to take better care of themselves." "My children, Morgan and Savannah, are much more active and their flexibility has improved significantly since we've been going to karate class," said Bridgette Simmons, wife of Tech. Sgt. Ron Simmons, 79th Aircraft Maintenance Unit. "Plus, my kids are very excited about karate classes; they are usually calling me at work to remind me they've got practice that evening." Karate improves self confidence as well, Sgt. Olsen said. Children are encouraged to take chances and push themselves further than they thought possible. Finally, karate teaches two forms of self-defense, which are physical and internal, he said. Physically, a child will improve his strength, flexibility and overall health. Additionally, he will learn to strike with tremendous power and effectiveness. Internally, karate teaches a child to spot danger and avoid dangerous people, places and activities. "Karate can help a child avoid the need for a physical confrontation," Sgt. Olsen said. "Hopefully a child will never be picked on or need to fight, but if the occasion should arise, shouldn't everyone know how to protect themselves?"