Teach me how to fight |

Karate was my first love as a young boy, you may have thought falling head over heels with a beautiful girl would have topped the list, but unfortunately not for a 9-year-old.

Growing up in a big family surrounded by boy cousins and friends led to the inevitable play fights, which were so much fun. The opportunity it brought to rough and tumble was a great way to test my strength against my younger and older cousins and friends. This naturally led me into Karate and falling in love with Daniel’s son and Mr Miyagi from Karate Kid. Karate instilled core values into me like hard work, discipline and sacrifice. These are values I carry with me to this very day, and values I encourage my young people to absorb as I believe they help you navigate through life more effectively.

Alongside Karate it instilled a confidence in me that granted me the ability to believe in myself. Growing up In Thornton Heath (at a time when there was a considerable amount of Knife crime and young people dying on the streets) the ability to defend yourself almost felt like a superpower (although anyone faced with a knife should run immediately). Walking home from karate in the dark and sometimes even from school posed a great risk, a risk you cannot hide from. 

Just as we prepare our children with Maths, English and Science classes to strengthen their analytic skills to improve their problem-solving abilities, we must equip them with the skills to protect themselves. During the early ’80s and ’90s, children spent a lot more time outside, playing football, riding their bike, scooters and playing hopscotch, this allowed them to explore their surroundings and learn more about themselves which in turn built their confidence. One of the reasons this no longer happens is the rise in knife and gang crime since the Millenium. 

How do you replace the playful space we once had as kids for the new generation? I believe martial arts is one of the answers. Through my practical and written research on Martial arts, it provides a safe indoor space for kids to mix with others, build confidence while exploring their environment and learning new skills. My top 3 recommendations are Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Wrestling. You ask me why? Muay Thai teaches you how to throw punches, kicks, knees, and elbows effectively. While Jiu-jitsu teaches you how to fight while on the ground and submit your opponent with locks and chokes. Wrestling equips you with the skills to take your opponent to the ground. I’ve personally tried my hands at the first 2 and I feel every child should get a taste of how wonderful the martials are. I wonder what your thoughts are?

Our children deserve to walk with confidence, to LOVE themselves so that in turn they can share that love with others. I work tirelessly to see Muay Thai and other martial arts be part of the schools’ national curriculum, due to martial arts still being frowned upon in some sections of society, I have not yet been successful, I hope I am one day. As I said earlier this is a necessary life skill for all our kids. I close my story by saying a great martial arts school teaches a student to carry their skill with humility and honour and NOT as a weapon, but as a tool for self-defence. So let’s empower our children to live a purposeful life, so one day they can share their story.

Martial arts is not a hobby, but a way of life.

Jonathan Moore