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The mental health benefits of the sport of ninja!

The mental health benefits of the sport of ninja!

Youth Fitness
Article by: USA Ninja Challenge

Ninja training, which is a combination of martial arts, obstacle course training, and gymnastics, has become increasingly popular among kids and teenagers in recent years. This sport not only offers a fun and exciting way to stay active but also has the potential to improve mental health in young people. In this post, we will explore the various ways in which ninja training can benefit children's mental health.

  1. Boosts Self-Esteem and Confidence

One of the primary benefits of ninja training is that it can help boost a child's self-esteem and confidence. As they progress through the various levels of training, children are able to accomplish feats they never thought possible. With each new obstacle conquered, they gain a sense of pride and accomplishment that can translate to other areas of their lives. Additionally, ninja training emphasizes the importance of perseverance and resilience, teaching children to push through challenges and setbacks to reach their goals.

  1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Engaging in physical activity is known to be an effective way to reduce stress and anxiety, and ninja training is no exception. The high-intensity nature of the sport releases endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals, which can help improve mood and reduce stress levels. Additionally, the focus required during ninja training can help children develop mindfulness skills, which have been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety.

  1. Improves Cognitive Function

Ninja training requires a great deal of mental focus and strategy, which can help improve cognitive function in children. The sport involves problem-solving, spatial awareness, and quick decision-making, all of which are skills that can be transferred to other areas of their lives. By engaging in regular ninja training, children may improve their ability to concentrate, process information, and make decisions.

  1. Fosters Social Connections

Ninja training provides an opportunity for children to socialize with others who share their interests. This can be especially beneficial for children who may struggle with social anxiety or who have difficulty making friends. By participating in a sport that they enjoy, children are more likely to form positive relationships with others and feel a sense of belonging.

  1. Promotes Healthy Habits

Finally, ninja training promotes healthy habits that can benefit children's overall wellbeing. By engaging in regular physical activity, children are more likely to maintain a healthy weight, reduce their risk of chronic disease, and improve their overall physical health. Additionally, ninja training emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition and hydration, which can help children develop healthy habits that they can carry with them throughout their lives.

Ninja training is an exciting and fun sport that offers a wide range of benefits for children's mental health. From boosting self-esteem and confidence to reducing stress and anxiety, ninja training can help children develop important life skills that will serve them well into adulthood. If you're interested in exploring ninja training for your child, come try a free trial class at our gym!

References:

  • Hill, A., Niblock, J., Mallett, C. J., & Wiseman, T. (2020). The effects of physical activity on mood and anxiety in older adults. Journal of affective disorders, 245, 912-917.
  • Rosenbaum, S., Tiedemann, A., Sherrington, C., Curtis, J., & Ward, P. B. (2014). Physical activity interventions for people with mental illness: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of clinical psychiatry, 75(9), 964-974.
  • Chang, K. M., & Liu, Y. H. (2020). Effects of a mindfulness intervention on self-esteem in children with anxiety disorders. Journal of Child and Family Studies, 29(9), 2428-2437.