In today’s society bullies victimize children more than any other age group. Bullying which both teachers and parents alike most often ignore is a serious problem that sets patterns for adult life.

Martial Arts training offers the student the confidence to be able to defend oneself in a confrontation, not only through physical contact but also through avoidance. How do we do this? By using our brains and building strong moral leaders and by viewing conflicts as both “bad” and “wrong”. And by denying negative feelings in favor of positive ones by emulating peaceful ideals based on sound judgment.

Of course if these things don’t work and it gets physical, then self defense may be the last resort. Sometimes the only real way to fight violence is with violence.

12 ways to walk away from a physical conflict with a bully:

*Make friends. Treat a bully as a friend instead of an enemy. Win him/her over.

*Use humor. You can turn a threatening situation into a funny one.

*Walk away. Don’t get into a fight, be smart-just walk away.

*Use cleverness. Use your imagination to resolve a conflict.

*Agree with the bully. Let insults go-without fighting. Remember “sticks & stones!”

*Refuse a fight. A winner of a fight is one who avoids it.

*Stand up to a bully. Stick up for yourself and just say “NO”.

*Scream & yell! Remember a powerful voice can end a conflict before it starts.

*Ignore threats. Remember, “I’m rubber your glue-What ever you say bounces off me and sticks to you!”

*Use authority. Call a teacher or parent to help you.

*Reason with the bully. Use your brain. Be smart.

*Take a strong stance with confidence. Be strong of both mind and body. Don’t be a victim.