Everest Strong Coaching Podcast hosts Sensei John Fonseca, Chief Karate Instructor and owner of Fonseca Martial Arts along with Sensei Jamie Gamboa to discuss the profound effect Martial arts can have on youths. Martial arts is a fun and competitive sport that allows young athletes to develop essential life skills. Sensei John emphasizes that his Dojo is a safe space for athletes of all levels. At Fonseca Martial Arts the focus is on the athlete’s personal development rather than accolades, emphasizing personal enjoyment. Martial arts is unique to other sports because the athletes are competing against themselves. This allows children to decide what they value most and what their goals are.
Sensei John also points out that athletes who focus solely on accolades are missing the point of sports. Martial arts is about using your body and mind to understand how sports relate to your life. Empathy and positive reinforcement are essential pillars for coaching at Fonseca Martial Arts. Coaches take on an individualized approach for each athlete while simultaneously instilling confidence, and self-esteem along the way. This allows kids to progress at their own level.
Many kids nowadays feel that they don’t belong in sports if they aren’t good enough to make the highest, most elite team available. This is not the case! Dojos like Fonseca Martial Arts encourage children of all levels to join. Coaches support the child’s level of commitment whatever it might be. If this is something that you and your child think would be a good fit I highly recommend joining a Dojo that aims to develop and promote an athlete’s growth, health, and happiness. Check out my podcast for more information.