Perform martial arts
Learn basic martial arts moves safely: practice warm-ups, simple stances, controlled strikes, and cool-downs while respecting safety and practicing with a partner or soft mat.
Step-by-step guide to perform basic martial arts moves safely
How To Learn Karate At Home For Kids | 20 Minute Beginner Lesson! | Dojo Go (Week 6)
Step 1
Put on comfortable clothes that let you move easily.
Step 2
Lay your soft mat on the floor or clear a carpeted area for practice.
Step 3
Ask an adult to check the area and stay nearby while you practice.
Step 4
Warm up by jogging in place for 30 seconds to get your body moving.
Step 5
Do 10 slow arm circles forward to loosen your shoulders.
Step 6
Do 10 gentle leg swings on each leg while holding a chair or wall for balance.
Step 7
Step one leg forward into a front stance and hold it steady for 10 seconds.
Step 8
Switch legs into a front stance on the other side and hold steady for 10 seconds.
Step 9
Practice controlled straight punches: keep your guard up extend each punch to shoulder height and return slowly do five punches with each arm toward a soft target.
Step 10
Practice light front kicks: lift your knee extend the foot to touch the mat or soft pad and return slowly do five kicks with each leg.
Step 11
Cool down by walking in place for 30 seconds at a slow relaxed pace.
Step 12
Gently stretch your arms and legs for about 15 seconds each to finish.
Step 13
Share a photo or short video of your practice and what you learned on DIY.org.
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
What can we use if we don't have a soft mat or soft pad?
If you don't have a soft mat or soft pad, lay a folded blanket, thick yoga mat, or a stack of couch cushions on carpet to create a padded surface for steps like front kicks and the punch target.
What should we do if the child keeps losing balance during leg swings or when holding the front stance?
Have the child hold the chair or wall as instructed during the '10 gentle leg swings' and shorten the 'front stance' hold to 3–5 seconds while an adult spots until balance improves.
How can I change the routine for different ages?
For preschoolers reduce to 3 punches/kicks and 5-second stance holds with close adult supervision, for school-age follow the listed 5–10 reps and 10-second holds, and for older kids add 2–3 sets and increase the warm-up jogging to 60 seconds.
How can we extend or personalize the practice?
Create a personalized routine by decorating a soft target or mat, adding a short combo of the warm-up, arm circles, leg swings, five controlled punches and kicks per side, and then share a photo or short video on DIY.org describing what you learned.
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Facts about martial arts for kids
🤸 A 5–10 minute dynamic warm-up helps joints and muscles get ready and lowers injury risk.
🥋 Many martial arts schools offer classes for kids as young as 4 — tiny belts, big confidence!
🧠 Martial arts training often boosts focus and self-control — it's brain training with movement.
🤝 Partner drills teach cooperation and respect because you learn to control power and stop on cue.
🛡️ Soft mats and protective pads absorb impact and make learning falls and strikes much safer.
How do I teach my child basic martial arts moves safely at home?
What materials and equipment do I need for a beginner kids' martial arts session?
What ages is practicing basic martial arts suitable for?
What safety precautions should I take when kids practice basic martial arts moves?
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