Kid’s Confidence Through Martial Arts

Hi there. My name is Jessica, and I am 13 years old. I started learning about Aiki Ninjutsu because my parents strongly suggested it (meaning I didn’t have a choice!) They encouraged me to start training so that I could learn how to defend myself and keep myself safe.

I learned how to roll in different directions….forwards, backwards, sideways….and then the falling! I had to fall in all directions, too! I thought it was going to be hard but I got the hang of it. Then, we did some kicking and punching using hand targets.

My overall experience of training was extremely physically and mentally beneficial. As I trained more and more, I could gradually feel myself becoming stronger. I could really sense my martial arts skills developing.

This was a lot different from when I was learning TaeKwonDo at the park district. With Aiki Ninjutsu, I started out right away learning about my “kamae” or “powerful stance”. This is a strong stance for fighting. i learned how to stand in a strong way and that my attitude made me stronger.

After only a few lessons, I noticed that I felt more confident and positive. I felt like I could really succeed in someday mastering this martial art. I felt safer knowing that I was learning how to defend myself. This is important to me because I like feeling safe and protected in my environment. I’m very petite, and kids at school sometimes tease me and pick on me for being short. Now, after my Aiki Ninjutsu training, I might be short on the outside but I am tall on the inside!

I like knowing that I am learning how to detect potential dangers and take care of myself. I’m also really happy that I have more self-confidence now. I can’t wait to do more training!