Martial arts can teach toddlers fitness is fun

TAKING my son to a martial arts club was something I had imagined might happen way off in the future, but definitely not when he is only two years old.

When I heard that the Lions Den mixed martial arts training centre in Exmouth has a club for pre-school children I have to admit the first vision that popped into my head, and a very scary one at that, was of toddlers wearing miniature boxing gloves learning to kick and punch.

In reality nothing like that would ever be permitted at the family fitness club in Pound Lane.

Every Wednesday and Friday morning from 10.30am, a Lion Cubs session is held for two to five-year-olds.

Sessions are designed to help develop agility, strength, confidence, co-ordination, social skills and fitness.

The main aim is for it to be fun and interactive — and it's not just for children, parents too are encouraged to join in.

The Lion Cubs is led by qualified instructors using recognised child development techniques.

Dave Matthews, who runs the centre with his wife, Ali, explained: "It gets children active, and the parents too, and creates that bond. It's for children who are active or maybe those who are a little bit timid and just need bringing out of themselves in a safe area, which is well padded with mats.

"Within two weeks of joining their co-ordination is three to four times better than it was. We also vary the equipment we get out each time.

"I have noticed that parents have become too 'protective'. You've got to let children play to develop. Here they can do that in a safe environment. If they fall over they won't get hurt."

The session begins with fun warm-up exercises especially geared towards little ones. They are encourage to do things like quickly swapping from moving like a soldier to a sumo wrestler, followed by action-filled nursery rhymes.

The second half is free play time when they get to go on a variety of equipment including balance beams, a bouncy castle with climbing activities inside and ropes to swing from.

Exmouth parent Vicki O'Connor takes her two children, Emily Stewart, two, and Rosie Stewart, 10 months, every week.

She said: "It was recommended to me by a friend and it's the highlight of Emily's week

"She was a slow walker and had just started taking her first steps when we came. It's helped her confidence and co-ordination.

"Now she will have a go at more climbing and she is braver when I take her to soft play areas.

"I like it because it's different from standard toddler groups and it's a great family atmosphere. Rosie is too young to participate but she's always happy when she's here."

The centre runs classes catering for all ages, from pre-school to adults, and also runs ladies' fitness sessions with a creche. It starts teaching children martial arts from the age of six, beginning with movement skills.

Dave, who has nearly 40 years' martial arts experience, said: "I think it's the best thing you can give a child. It's not about punching and kicking but teaching them self-confidence."

The Lion Cubs sessions cost £2.50 per child. For information about other classes at the centre telephone 01395 268100 or visit www.lionsdenuk.co.uk