Would you consider putting your teenage son in the duel? It is a great way to improve mental and physical health. Although the most direct benefit is through exercise, a structured fencing class can also help your child learn, grow, and excel in school, work environments, and even socialization. It’s not just about sword fighting; Nothing could be further from the truth. Look at these six important life skills to see how fencing can benefit your child’s ability to succeed in subtle ways.
discipline
Like martial arts and other sports that require a high degree of concentration, fencing requires a great deal of discipline. As a life skill, discipline teaches children to follow “the rules of order or rules,” and this is our society as a whole, too. As children progress through junior high and beyond, they must also learn to follow the code of order that our society represents; If they break the code (i.e. the laws), they get themselves in trouble. Although connection may not seem obvious at first, learning discipline through dueling will enable children to adapt to the tougher adult lives and difficult moments at school because they will have the discipline to persevere.
patience
It is very likely that patience is the second most important life skill that your child can have after discipline. Any parent who goes to a toy store with a two-year-old likely knows the struggle; They want the games, and moreover, they want them now. But teaching your child that they should wait for a vacation or save on expenses before buying the game is an excellent life lesson; They will learn patience and that good things come to those who wait. Fencing teaches this same lesson by giving children the strength to understand when it is best to wait and defend as well as when it is best to strike your opponent. In fact, a large part of fencing involves patiently watching for the right opportunity.
Sportsmanship
In the sport of fencing, you will win some and lose some. That’s simply how it is. Of course, everyone likes to win more than to lose. But when your opponent does your best, you learn to take it in stride and use it as a learning experience instead of letting it get you down. Being able to gracefully accept victories and defeats is an important part of your child’s success, and they’ll get plenty of practice, too. Better yet, you’ll learn how to work with a partner or team to solve problems. Great sportsmanship has benefits beyond mere sport; It helps children learn to be kind, friendly and respectful to the people they meet throughout their lives.