Jiu-Jitsu, a martial art once reserved for cage fighters and police officers, has found a new audience in recent years: children. While Jiu-Jitsu is known for its physical benefits, including improved strength and coordination, it’s the mental health benefits that are surprising to parents and researchers alike.
In a study published in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology, researchers found that Jiu-Jitsu training improved emotional regulation and reduced aggression in adolescent boys. The study compared a group of boys who trained in Jiu Jitsu with a control group and found that the Jiu Jitsu group had better control over their emotions and were less likely to engage in aggressive behavior.
A study published in the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing found that Jiu Jitsu training improved self-esteem and emotional regulation in children with anxiety disorders. The study showed that the children who participated in Jiu Jitsu training had higher levels of self-esteem and were better able to regulate their emotions compared to a control group.
Jiu Jitsu also provides children with opportunities to interact with others in a structured and supportive environment. This can be particularly beneficial for children who struggle with social interaction. In a study published in the Journal of Exercise Rehabilitation, researchers found that Jiu Jitsu training improved social skills and quality of life in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study showed that the children who participated in Jiu Jitsu training were more confident and assertive, and had an easier time making friends and interacting with others.
Finally, Jiu Jitsu teaches perseverance and goal-setting, skills that can be transferable to other areas of a child’s life. In a study published in the International Journal of Sports Science and Coaching, researchers found that Jiu Jitsu training improved goal-setting and self-efficacy in adolescent athletes.
So, why is Jiu Jitsu so effective at improving children’s mental health? According to Dr. Mark Feit, a licensed clinical psychologist and Jiu Jitsu instructor, Jiu Jitsu provides children with a sense of control and mastery that can be hard to find in other activities. “Jiu Jitsu is all about problem-solving,” he says. “When a child is struggling with a move or a technique, they have to problem-solve and figure out what works best for them. This can be incredibly empowering and can build confidence and resilience.”
While Jiu Jitsu may not be for every child, the mental health benefits are clear. If you’re looking for an activity that can help your child build emotional regulation skills, boost self-esteem, encourage social interaction, and teach perseverance and goal-setting, Jiu Jitsu may be worth a try.
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