Increasing numbers of children ages twelve and under are now joining martial arts classes, and their parents are realizing the benefits of these ancient arts in improving not only fitness but also children's safety and self-reliance in an unpredictable world.

This fully-illustrated, how-to manual outlines the taching of safe and fun martial arts techniques to children. It addresses such questions as:

How to decide if a child is old enough to take up martial arts.
What to look for in classes and instructors.
What martial arts styles are most protective of young bodies.
How to keep children's motivation levels high and keep the young marital artist practicing.

This comprehensive manual also includes instructions for games and exercises, guaranteed to keep the young martial artist interested and motivated thoughout his or her martial arts career.

'This is a book every parent whose children want to follow the way of the warrior should read before they sign on the dotted line for thousands of dollars worth of instruction. This well-illustrated volume is must reading before you shop for a martial art for your child.'-The Indianapolis News

'This fully illustrated source book provides the answers to such questions as what to look for in a safe training facility and how to decide which of the many disciplines is right for each child.'-Fighting Woman News

'Mitchell, a British martial arts expert, gives helpful information in this well-illustrated book.'-Library Journal

David Mitchell has served as the chairman of the Martial Arts Commission in England, and is a member of the Directing Committee of the European an World Karate Organizations. Mitchell, who holds a black belt, is the author of numerous books based on martial arts, including The Overlook Martial Arts Handbook.

Contents

Acknowledgements
Introduction
Fitness & the young martial artist
Fitness games I
Fitness games II
Basic skills I
Basic skills II
Basic skills III
Getting started
The syllabus
Glossary
Index