My boys started their first martial arts “wushu” class yesterday.   I believe that they will gain much with the following benefits:

• Physical Development

1.      Improves flexibility and agility.

2.      Increase general fitness and immunity.

3.      Achieve impressive artistic effect and provides visual delight.

• Mental Development

1.      Trains focusing power, concentration and coordination of limbs.

2.      Improve the neural system, and is therefore beneficial for intellectual development.

• Character Development

1.      Sense of achievement – as children are required to achieve higher level of grading.

2.      Instill determination as students are required to strengthen certain group of muscles.

3.      Build confidence in public performances and competition.

4.      Develop moral character, good manners/conduct and disciplines.

Source: http://library.singapore-wushu.com

Most importantly, I hope that it will help instill the Chinese culture in my boys and since the class is mainly conducted in Mandarin, it could help Darren pick up his ability in comprehending the Chinese language. It was quite a lot of fun for the boys as they enjoyed the kicks and stretching as a first lesson, and definitely fun for Papa Ed and me as we watched them in their comical poses (they seemed pretty stiff and inflexible) <chuckle>. However, we have not forgotten to remind the boys that whatever they learn is not meant for fighting each other or attacking others.

Do enjoy a short video clip on demonstration of wushu for kids. Will share a video clip of my boys practising wushu in future when they are up to standard. After all, it was just their first lesson:)