Thursday, September 18, 2014

Self Defense Classes Arlington VA

By Lessie Kaufman


Although Northern Virginia has many affluent neighborhoods, there is enough street crime to keep people cautious about moving about on foot in many areas. Even mall parking lots are dangerous places. Self defense classes Arlington VA have grown in popularity for many reasons, personal protection being only one. This kind of course is available for adults, teens, and children as young as eight.

Many institutions that teach martial arts offer after-school care. Parents have found that the combination of physical activity and lessons in self-control, teamwork, and social skills gives kids something they may not find elsewhere. Certainly simply interacting with their peers in unsupervised ways or retreating inside to play computer games or watch television does not give them these benefits.

Public school buses drop kids off at after-school care centers by pre-arrangement, and many activity centers have buses of their own to transport kids. Parents who may still be working when school lets out know that their kids are enjoying physical activity in a safe, supervised environment. It's more than playtime, too, since this kind of program teaches both protective and social skills.

It's entirely possible in today's world to be confronted by hostility on the street or even at home when assailants are bent on robbery or assault. Martial arts offer one way to confront and, if necessary, repel physical aggression. Other disciplines focus on instinctive and reflex reactions, teaching students how to use these responses to deter or battle aggression. Fear management is another skill that is important in times of danger.

Adults can benefit from lessons of this kind, as well. Many people have never faced true hostility, but the knowledge that this is becoming increasingly possible makes many people nervous. Learning manners is a whole other aspect of interacting with society that used to be routinely taught by parents. Basic social skills are so lacking today that even major corporations have seminars on polite behavior.

Physical fitness is another benefit. Many moves that signal a readiness to defend oneself or are designed to discourage an attacker require balance, strength, and precision. The exercises that work toward these goals can be strenuous and intense. Scientists know that regular exercise is good for physical health, causes the release of 'feel-good' hormones into the bloodstream, and is a great stress reducer. Also, toned muscles help with weight control, give a more pleasing body shape, and help posture, which is important to a confident presence.

Familiar terms are Ju-jitsu, Tae-Kwon-Do, and Tai chi, but Aikido, Kendo, and Iaido are other martial arts. For those who love competition, there are classes in fencing, kickboxing, boxing, and karate. You will find centers listed as studios or 'dojos'. The internet is great for learning about different disciplines and seeing what's offered near you.

Whether you are interested in physical fitness, improving strength and balance, having fun in a group setting, or in really learning to fight back if the need arises, there are many opportunities in Northern Virginia. Go online and check out home pages for dojos or studios and the customer reviews that people are happy to post to learn more.




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