How to Choose the Right Sport for Your Family

Karate
THE IDEAL PARTICIPANT An individualistic teen. Kids can start from age four,
but around age 16 they’re really able to focus on the sport, says Mark Minark of the Saskatchewan Karate Association in Saskatoon.
PHYSICAL BENEFITS Cardio, strength, balance, flexibility and stress relief.
OTHER BOONS In addition to self-defence, this martial art emphasizes respect,
perfection of one’s character and mind-body awareness. Improved attention can also be a nice by-product.
SAFETY TIPS Ensure that the instructor is recommended and well qualified, but expect some finger and toe sprains and the occasional cut lip. “These are accidental because karate is actually non-contact,” says Minark.
TIME INVOLVED Ideally
two to three one-hour
lessons per week, but often just one lesson.
$$ Between $45 to $80 per month, plus $40 and up for
a gi (uniform).
PARENT REALITY CHECK Your little bruiser won’t be pulling a Jet Li any time
soon. Some parents are
disappointed when they find out that karate’s actually about dealing with situations non-violently, says Minark. Others get squirmy about the mental-spiritual aspect
of the practice and bowing
to the sensei, he adds.