10 Signs Your Child Needs Martial Arts Training (And How Shuhari Can Help)

Strong Body, Sharp Mind, Immovable Spirit.

As a parent, you want the best for your child. You want them to grow up confident, focused, and capable of handling whatever life throws their way. But in today's world of constant digital distractions and increasing social pressures, many children struggle with challenges that affect their development.

If you're wondering "does my child need martial arts?" or searching for ways to boost your child's confidence and focus, you're in the right place. At Shuhari Self Defence, we've helped over 8670+ students across Slough, Maidenhead, Windsor, Bracknell, and surrounding areas transform their lives through martial arts training.

Here are 10 clear signs that martial arts training could be exactly what your child needs.

1. Lacks Confidence in Social Situations

The Problem:

Does your child hang back in group settings? Do they struggle to make eye contact or speak up when needed? Low confidence can hold children back academically, socially, and emotionally.

How Shuhari Helps:

Martial arts training naturally builds confidence through achievement. At Shuhari, children progress through belt ranks, mastering new techniques and earning recognition for their hard work. Our supportive community environment, led by 23 experienced instructors, helps even the shyest children find their voice.

Mental Benefits Developed:

• Confidence
• Self-esteem
• Courage
• Inner peace

2. Struggles with Focus at School

The Problem:

Is your child easily distracted? Do teachers report that they struggle to concentrate during lessons? In an age of constant digital stimulation, many children find it difficult to maintain focus.

How Shuhari Helps:

Martial arts demands complete attention. Every class requires students to focus on their instructor, remember sequences, and execute techniques precisely. This mental discipline carries over to other areas of life.

Our structured training develops:

• Focus - Through practice which requires precision
• Discipline - Following instructions and respecting training protocols
• Mental Strength - Pushing through challenging drills
• Patience - Understanding that mastery takes time

With over 19 classes per week across 6 locations, we make it easy to fit focus-building training into your family's schedule.

3. Being Bullied or Fears Bullying

The Problem:

Bullying remains a serious concern for parents. Whether your child is currently being bullied or simply fears it, the emotional impact can be devastating.

How Shuhari Helps:

We teach practical self-defence skills that give children the confidence to stand up for themselves. More importantly, we teach:

• Awareness - Recognizing potential threats before they escalate
• Respect - Understanding boundaries and treating others well
• Assertiveness - Standing tall and speaking with confidence
• Actual self-defence techniques - From Karate, Krav Maga, and other proven systems

Children who train in martial arts carry themselves differently. Bullies typically target those who appear vulnerable, and the confidence gained through martial arts training often makes children less likely targets.

Our curriculum includes techniques from: Karate, Boxing, Wrestling, Krav Maga, Kung Fu, Judo, BJJ (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu), Kickboxing, and Muay Thai.

4. Too Much Screen Time

The Problem:

Hours spent on tablets, phones, and gaming consoles are becoming the norm. While technology has its place, excessive screen time can lead to:

• Physical health issues
• Social isolation
• Reduced attention span
• Poor sleep patterns

How Shuhari Helps:

Martial arts provides an engaging, fun alternative that children actually want to do. Instead of passively consuming content, they're:

• Moving their bodies
• Interacting with peers face-to-face
• Learning valuable skills
• Working toward tangible goals

Physical Benefits Developed:

• Fitness
• Strength
• Flexibility
• Co-ordination
• Balance
• Speed
• Agility

5. Needs a Physical Activity Outlet

The Problem:

Some children have boundless energy that needs a positive outlet. Without structured physical activity, this energy can manifest as:

• Restlessness at school
• Difficulty sleeping
• Behavioral issues at home
• Frustration and irritability

How Shuhari Helps:

Our classes provide intense physical training that:

• Burns excess energy productively
• Develops athleticism
• Improves overall fitness
• Promotes better sleep
• Reduces stress and anxiety

Every student in martial arts is actively engaged throughout the entire class. Whether in our children's classes, teenager sessions, or adult training, everyone gets a complete workout.

Training includes:

• Cardiovascular conditioning
• Strength building
• Flexibility work
• Technical skill development
• Sparring and pad work

6. Difficulty Following Instructions

The Problem:

Does your child struggle to listen and follow through with tasks? This can create challenges both at home and at school, leading to frustration for everyone involved.

How Shuhari Helps:

Martial arts training is built on following precise instructions. From day one, students learn:

• To listen carefully to their instructor
• To follow multi-step directions
• To respect authority figures
• To take personal responsibility

The structure of martial arts naturally teaches children that listening and following instructions leads to success. They see immediate feedback when they execute techniques correctly after paying attention.

Mental Attributes Developed:

• Discipline
• Respect
• Perseverance
• Control
• Patience

Founded in 2010 with the mission to help people become the strongest version of themselves mentally and physically, Shuhari has refined training methods that instill discipline while keeping classes engaging and fun.

7. Low Self-Esteem

The Problem:

Children with low self-esteem often:

• Avoid trying new things
• Give up easily when challenged
• Compare themselves negatively to others
• Struggle with anxiety and depression

How Shuhari Helps:

Nothing builds self-esteem like genuine achievement. In martial arts:

• Progress is visible and measurable
• Success comes from personal effort, not comparison to others
• Every student progresses at their own pace
• Small victories accumulate into major confidence

Our belt ranking system provides regular recognition and motivation. Students grade as they master techniques, providing tangible proof of their growth.

With over 600 five-star reviews on Google and Trustpilot combined, parents consistently report dramatic improvements in their children's confidence and self-esteem.

8. Needs Positive Role Models

The Problem:

In today's media landscape, children are exposed to questionable role models. They need positive influences who demonstrate:

• Integrity
• Discipline
• Respect
• Hard work
• Humility

How Shuhari Helps:

Our team of 23 instructors includes dedicated martial artists who embody the values we teach. Led by Chief Instructor Olgun Tiltay and instructors like Majid Khalid, John Moses, Vuyo Halimana, and Brian Southon, our team provides:

• Consistent positive mentorship
• Real-world examples of dedication and achievement
• Supportive guidance through challenges
• Celebration of student success

Our instructors don't just teach techniques—they model the behavior and values that help children become their best selves.

9. Wants to Learn Self-Defence

The Problem:

Whether motivated by safety concerns or simply an interest in self-protection, many children express a desire to learn how to defend themselves but don't know how to start.

How Shuhari Helps:

We specialize in practical, effective self-defence training. Our curriculum draws from multiple proven martial arts systems:

🥋 Karate - Traditional striking and blocking techniques

🥊 Boxing - Punching skills and footwork

🤼 Wrestling - Takedowns and ground control

🛡️ Krav Maga - Practical self-defence for real situations

🐉 Kung Fu - Traditional Chinese martial arts techniques

🤼 Judo - Throws and grappling

🥋 BJJ (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu) - Ground fighting and submissions

🥊 Kickboxing - Striking with hands and feet

🥊 Muay Thai - Elbow, knee and clinch techniques

This comprehensive approach ensures students develop well-rounded self-defence capabilities, not just sport-focused skills.

Physical Skills Developed:

• Technique
• Speed
• Timing
• Accuracy
• Toughness
• Agility

10. Seeking a Structured Activity

The Problem:

Many children don't do structured activities with:

• Clear expectations
• Regular attendance
• Progressive goals
• Community involvement

How Shuhari Helps:

We provide exactly this kind of structure with:

• 19+ classes per week across 6 locations
• Multiple time slots including after-school, evening, and weekend options
• Structured curriculum with clear progression path
• Gradings to mark achievement
• Supportive community of fellow students and families

Our Locations:

• Slough
• Cippenham
• Langley
• Maidenhead
• Bracknell
• Windsor

Whether you're in Slough looking for weeknight classes or in Maidenhead seeking weekend training, we have convenient options for your family.

Why Choose Shuhari Self Defence?

Proven Track Record

• 15 years of excellence since 2010
• Over 8000 students taught
• 4.9 out of 5 stars from 206 reviews
• 600+ five-star reviews on Google and Trustpilot combined

Values-Driven Instruction

We're dedicated to practical martial arts training rooted in traditional values, focusing on:

• Self-defence
• Mental resilience
• Personal growth

Community Focus

As we say: "In a world full of distractions, we aim to be your community. People who train with you, support you, and help you stay on the right path."

All Ages and Abilities Welcome

We offer:

• Children's classes (ages 7+)
• Teenager training
• Adult classes
• Beginner-friendly environment
• Public classes
• Corporate programs
• School programs
• Private tuition

Ready to Get Started?

If you recognized your child in any of these 10 signs, martial arts training at Shuhari could be the solution.

Special Offer: Beginner's Course Discount

We're currently offering a discount on our beginner's course. This is the perfect opportunity to try martial arts and see the benefits for yourself.

How to Take the Next Step

Try a class at one of our 6 convenient locations.

Free Trial Class Available

We offer free trial classes so your child can experience training.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old does my child need to be to train?

We accept children from age 7 and up. We have separate classes for children, teenagers, and adults to ensure age-appropriate training.

Are the classes beginner friendly?

Absolutely! Most of our students start with no prior martial arts experience. Our instructors are skilled at working with beginners and helping them progress at their own pace.

What should my child wear to class?

For the first class, comfortable athletic clothing is fine. If your child decides to continue, we'll guide you on obtaining a proper martial arts uniform (gi).

Does the venue have parking?

Yes, all our locations have parking available for families.

What is the best martial art for self-defence?

Rather than limiting ourselves to one style, we teach techniques from multiple effective martial arts systems including Karate, Krav Maga, Boxing, BJJ, and more. This comprehensive approach provides well-rounded self-defence skills.

Transform Your Child's Life Today

The benefits of martial arts training extend far beyond the dojo. The confidence, discipline, focus, and respect that children develop through training with us positively impact every area of their lives—from school performance to social relationships to personal well-being.

Don't wait for challenges to become crises. If your child is struggling with confidence, focus, bullying, or any of the issues discussed in this article, martial arts training can help.

Our Commitment to Your Family

Whether you're learning to protect yourself, improve your fitness, or gain confidence, our classes give you the skills and mindset to thrive in life. We'd love to welcome you to our martial arts family.

Come try a class and become part of our team.

Shuhari Self Defence
Strong Body, Sharp Mind, Immovable Spirit.