‘Teach me, and I will forget. Show me, and I might remember. Involve me, and I will never forget.’ Chinese proverb
This rings so true when it comes to extra murals. Sport extra murals are especially popular for the majority of kids. For years and years, kids have had the opportunity to engage in extra murals and now, the list of sport related extra-curricular activities is almost exhaustive. We have over 20 types of sport extra murals to choose from, for group and individual sport coaching, in different areas of Johannesburg and Gauteng.
There are so many reasons why sport extra murals are good for your child.
– Kids are fitter, physically stronger, more flexible and agile and generally in better health.
– They learn to be team players and that teamwork takes some amount of effort.
– Learning to accept defeat graciously and not throw tantrums is a big positive!
– Motivation – this is a key life skill that everyone uses daily and one that sport activities are good at providing. You want to succeed!
– Reflexes are heightened and kids learn to adapt, strategise and think critically when put under pressure.
– So they learn to thrive under pressure which is important in all facets of adult life.
-Fine and gross motor skills are developed. Aside from just being able to catch a ball, the child refines the way he watches the ball move, strengthening the eye movements as well.
Ball skills and soccer
We have a number of companies that teach toddlers and preschoolers all about ball skills. Getting them interested in ball activities makes kids want to continue with them as they get older. Even primary school aged kids benefit from ball skills training as it assists them on the field. Soccer clubs can be found in most suburbs with most of them offering soccer training from as young as under 6 groups. Older kids and teenagers may play in league matches; this is a great way to develop their confidence and motivate them.
Cricket
Cricket in South Africa is a favourite to watch and to play. Kids enjoy being coached and taught the rules of the game. Team camaraderie, increased fitness levels and enjoyment of the sport are all excellent advantages of getting your child involved in cricket coaching.
Gymnastics and acrobatics
Gymnasts and acrobats are arguably the strongest and fitness of all athletes! Flexibility, agility, coordination and discipline are all benefits of getting involved in gymnastics. Kids have fun while jumping, tumbling, hanging, swinging and more during their gymnastics or acrobatic classes. Competitions are also a great motivation for kids to stay focused and determined to do their best.
Martial arts classes
A firm favourite with many children, martial arts classes can be found in many areas of Johannesburg and Gauteng. Martial arts trainers focus on technique, stance and discipline. Respect and good sportsmanship is also learned in martial arts classes. Kids become determined to reach new levels as they grow better and older.
Swimming lessons
An all-important life skill, especially in South Africa. Swimming lessons give kids not only the valuable skill of how to swim but is also great for full body fitness workouts. Swimming lessons start from as young as babies and you will find some swim schools that teach adults as well. Learn to swim, stroke correction and basic water safety is taught by qualified swimming instructors who will give you peace of mind when near water.
Baseball and basketball coaching
Indigenous to the USA, baseball has become more popular recently with leagues all over Gauteng. A great way to get moving and fit, even for adults.
Other extra mural sports on offer
Aside from those mentioned, we have so many more sports to choose from. From canoeing to cycling and core training. Try gymnastics , lifesaving, tennis and horse riding lessons you are sure to find something for your child or yourself that will get that energy pumping!
This article was originally written for Jozikids by Fatima Kazee in 2018.
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