More Than Movement: Building Resilience Through Martial Arts
A professional perspective from Clinical Psychologist Dr. Nisha Karia
“It’s not just about kicks and punches, it’s about building resilience, focus, and confidence that lasts.”
Martial arts is more than just physical training, clinical studies have shown it can improve focus, boost confidence, and reduce anxiety in both children and adults (Zivin et al., 2001; Diamond & Ling, 2016).
In this short video, Clinical Psychologist Dr. Nisha Karia explains how structured martial arts practice supports emotional resilience and mental health, especially for young people. Backed by science and trusted by professionals, martial arts continues to be recognised for its psychological and developmental benefits (Harwood-Gross et al., 2017; Rosenbaum, M.S. & Ariga, A. (2011). Brian Moore et al. (2020 Oct).
Discover How Martial Arts Has Transformed Lives
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Puja Popat
Ray is the BEST! no exaggeration, he knows just how to connect with the children to get them to not only learn the required steps but enjoy it at the same time. I have both my boys signed up (age 4&6) the benefits are endless going from increased ...
Ray is the BEST! no exaggeration, he knows just how to connect with the children to get them to not only learn the required steps but enjoy it at the same time.
I have both my boys signed up (age 4&6) the benefits are endless going from increased confidence, the ability to know when to use their voice and being able to show and receive respect.
The wider team are just as committed in the betterment of the children. Overall Phoenix Martial Arts makes you feel like you are part of a family that work together to succeed rather than just feeling like a number in somebody’s constant marketing campaign.
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Saira Hanif
My son loves learning karate with Sensei Ray. He has progressed so well and they also work on building character as well as the physical side. Sensei Ray is responsive and keeps me updated on how my son is developing. It’s a great way to get some exe...
My son loves learning karate with Sensei Ray. He has progressed so well and they also work on building character as well as the physical side. Sensei Ray is responsive and keeps me updated on how my son is developing. It’s a great way to get some exercise, learn useful life skills and have fun!
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Liyakatalli Sonde
My son and daughter started martial arts at the club where Sensei Ray used to teach. They have been going now for almost three years and as soon as Sensei Ray said he was leaving to set up Phoenix Martial Arts Academy, we were the first to follow him...
My son and daughter started martial arts at the club where Sensei Ray used to teach. They have been going now for almost three years and as soon as Sensei Ray said he was leaving to set up Phoenix Martial Arts Academy, we were the first to follow him! He is absolutely fantastic with kids and both my son and daughter enjoy the classes and have grown in confidence. As an academy, Phoenix is totally transparent and affordable and we would recommend it and Sensei Ray any day of the week.
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Dahlia Mark
Sensei Ray is one of a kind. He is caring, attention to detail, soft spoken a great teacher to my son. My son looks forward to attending class when scheduled and this is actually great because he is greeted with a welcoming teacher and sparing mat...
Sensei Ray is one of a kind. He is caring, attention to detail, soft spoken a great teacher to my son.
My son looks forward to attending class when scheduled and this is actually great because he is greeted with a welcoming teacher and sparing mates.
We are definitely happy!!
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Bhavik P
The Best Martial Arts I have seen! I’ve taken my 5 year old daughter over the last 3 months and she loves it! Sensei Ray is great! Makes all the kids feel welcome and builds up their confidence. Clean training facilities and lots of parking. Re...
The Best Martial Arts I have seen! I’ve taken my 5 year old daughter over the last 3 months and she loves it!
Sensei Ray is great! Makes all the kids feel welcome and builds up their confidence. Clean training facilities and lots of parking.
Recommend to all parents! Well done and keep up the great work!
References
1. Zivin, G. et al. (2001). An effective approach to violence prevention: Traditional martial arts in middle school. Adolescence, 36(143), 443–459.
2. Diamond, A. & Ling, D.S. (2016). Conclusions about interventions for improving executive functions. Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience, 18, 34–48.
3. Harwood-Gross, A. et al. (2017). Martial arts as a mental health intervention for children: A systematic review. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies, 21(4), 952–960.
4. Rosenbaum, M.S. & Ariga, A. (2011). The effect of martial arts training on mental health outcomes: A systematic review. Journal of Sport and Health Science, 1(2), 78–88.
5. Brian Moore et al. (2020 Oct). The effect of martial arts training on mental health outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
My daughter loves her karate classes. Brilliant coach. Thank you!