Hyperactivity and Martial Arts

Florida -- When 34-year-old Chad Houvouras was a child, he struggled with hyperactivity, according to seminolechronicle.com.

However, what another might be using as an excuse in life, this elementary school special education teacher turned into a passion to help others.

The Apopka dad started studying Kung Fu in Gainesville. "I have dealt with hyperactivity my entire life, and I found martial arts were a great outlet for my energy," he said. "It helped me to focus and stay calm. Now I study Kung Fu, Yoga and Tai Chi."

Houvouras is also a certified behavioral analyst and provides home therapy to children and their families.

Finding Focus With Karate

Canada -- Eighteen-year-old Duncan Wessels from Metchosin, BC was diagnosed with autism and ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) as a child and he took up karate in the fourth grade after sitting in on a class, according to bclocalnews.com.

Through studying karate he has learned to use the sport as an outlet. "When things are stressful, it relaxes me," he said.

"Moralistically karate has helped me out a lot," he said. "It has given me self-confidence, discipline and respect."

Martial Arts and ADD Children

There's no doubt about it, regular exercise and activity in organized sports, such as martial arts, may potentially be a very good thing for children with ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder).

These activities tend to reduces stress and promote well being. Also, it is widely agree that emotional and social skills are developed and enhanced.

Gilroydispatch.com had a great article about this issue in August 2008, and you can read more about it here. Great pieces of advice for parents and teachers/coaches!