Keeping children interested in their Martial Arts training requires an element of fun and games. Traditionalists are usually only concerned with
discipline and structure of their training, but incorporating fun games involving proper techniques will add to value of training and keep kids interested.Here are a few fun games and activities that utilize Martial Arts skills to keep enthusiasm high and kids interested in their training.
Sensei Says
Sensei Says is a take off of old “Simon Says Game”. In this version instructor or parent would call out various martial arts techniques for children to perform.
One instructor or parent is designated as “Sensei” or Leader. Children are instructed to follow and perform commands of “Sensei” only if command is initiated by words “Sensei Says”. The leader will call out various commands. If child does not perform task when initiated by words “Sensei Says” they are out of game. If leader commands a task without using prompt “Sensei Says” and child performs task, then child is out of game. Last child remaining wins.
Wild & Crazy Blocker
Requirements: 2 padded foam blockers.
The instructor or parent will attempt to strike child with padded foam blocker. The attempted strikes should vary from left side to right side, and to various body points, including Head, Chest, Stomach, and Legs.
The child will use their martial arts blocking skills to “block” those strikes.
Each time a “strike” connects without child blocking or shielding they receive a point. Three points or three “strikes” and they are out.
Danger Alley
Requirements: 4 people, various Martial Arts Foam Blockers, Body Shields, Target Squares. A diagram is available at www.aimusainc.com/files/PDF/dangeralley.pdf
