Enrolling your child in Martial Arts training at an early age can be highly beneficial for their physical and mental development. It can enhance their self-confidence, coordination, concentration, and teach them respect for their training partners. MATS offers Judo and Aikido classes for children, both of which are taught by experienced instructors.
If you're wondering which training is right for your child, here are some differences between Judo and Aikido that may help you decide:
Judo
Starting age: 5+ years
Judo is an Olympic sport that focuses on using balance, leverage, and movement to throw an opponent. It is ideal for active children who have or want to develop a sense of competition. In Judo training, children learn throwing, falling, rolling, and pinning techniques, which can prepare them for success in tournaments (although participation in tournaments is optional). Children follow a predefined curriculum as they progress in skill, and ranks are awarded through official tests. Between the ages of 12 and 14, children can join the adult program to continue their Judo career or switch to Jujitsu, which builds on the concepts and techniques taught in the children's Judo program.
Aikido
Starting age: 7+ years
Aikido is a nonviolent Japanese martial art that teaches self-defense by using circular motion to convert the energy of an attack against the attacker. It is for children who want to develop physical coordination, agility, attention to detail, growing attention span, and focus. In Aikido training, children learn throwing, falling, rolling, and training in traditional Samurai weapons, such as the sword and staff. Progression and testing in Aikido is based on the number of hours participated in training, and children follow a predefined curriculum as they progress in rank and skill. Depending on their size and weight, children can join the adult program between the ages of 12 and 14 and continue to work towards their black belt rank.
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