Choosing the Better Martial Art Cross Training Plan for Kids

The decision about which martial arts to introduce your child to can depend on a number of factors, primarily their age, physical capabilities, and personal interest. For a 6-year-old child, there are two potential training combinations that are gaining significant popularity: kickboxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ). In this article, we will explore the benefits of each martial art and help you determine which combination might work better for your young learner.

Physical and Developmental Factors

Age is a crucial factor in determining which martial art plan is right for your child. If your child is average or below average in physical ability for their age group, plan 3 (kickboxing and BJJ) or a modified version could be ideal. On the other hand, if they are clearly superior in physical attributes such as size and strength, plan 2 (BJJ alone) might be more suitable. Plan 1 (kickboxing alone) is generally not recommended for a six-year-old due to the complexity and intensity of combining two very different martial arts simultaneously. This can overwhelm the child and potentially hinder their learning process.

Consideration of Child's Enjoyment and Instructor

Regardless of the physical attributes of your child, the enjoyment they derive from the martial arts training is highly important. It's crucial to observe which art your child enjoys more - is it because they get along well with the instructor or because they find the training itself more appealing? The enjoyment factor can significantly impact their dedication and progress in the martial arts. It’s often beneficial to start with a single martial art for a couple of years to ensure your child has the fundamentals down before introducing them to another discipline.

Experience and Best Practices from a Mentor

I myself have been involved in a similar cross training plan, combining kickboxing and BJJ. At the age of six, I started Judo, and I can attest to the positive impact it had on my physical and mental development. Many experts recommend a moderate approach to cross training; for instance, alternating days between the two arts can be effective. For example, you might consider kickboxing and BJJ on alternate days. Six is a young age but not too young to start. This gradual and stepwise introduction can help your child build a strong foundation in both arts.

Cardiovascular and General Fitness

For a six-year-old, kickboxing is often a better choice for cardiovascular fitness and overall general fitness. Regular kickboxing training helps in building strength, endurance, and agility. Moreover, it offers a fun and engaging environment where children can learn discipline, respect, and self-defense. However, it is important to note that kickboxing should not involve actual sparring in the ring, as this can be too aggressive and might lead to injuries.

Mental and Cognitive Development

On the other hand, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) can be an excellent choice if your primary goal is to foster mental development. BJJ emphasizes submission techniques and ground fighting, which require a high degree of mental focus and strategic thinking. However, it is crucial to ensure that BJJ training is conducted in a supportive and safe environment to avoid any potential joint injuries. BJJ can teach children valuable life lessons such as patience, problem-solving, and perseverance.

Conclusion and Recommendations

When choosing a martial art cross training plan for your six-year-old, consider their current physical capabilities, their enjoyment in the training, and your goals for their development. If you are aiming for a combination of fitness and general skills building, kickboxing could be a great starting point. For cognitive and mental development, BJJ might be a better choice. However, it is recommended to start with one martial art for a few years to ensure a solid foundation before introducing the other discipline. Consulting with experienced instructors and observing your child's progress can also guide your decision-making process. Happy training!