By Robbie Singh - Head Instructor of Gracie Jiu Jitsu Burwood
By Robbie Singh – Head Instructor of Gracie Jiu Jitsu Burwood
As he lay on his back, pinned to the ground, he attempts a final feeble attempt to get to his feet so he can push her around again.
She gently swims through his arms and replaces them on the ground and, in a strong voice, she gives him the option, “When you say you are going to stop bullying me, I will let you up!”
“I’m sorry, I won’t bully you again.”
Her serious faces changes from an assertive stare to a big smile, she jumps to her feet, dusts off his clothes and the room applauds her Bullyproof technique.
She is one rep of a role-play closer to being able to defend herself in a real life scenario.
The benefits of role playing for children in marital arts training goes beyond the specific scenario presented to them. It provides them with the physical sensations of being pushed or touched, without the aggression of a peer that allows them to implement and develop their defensive skills.
The role plays provide them with expanded language so they learn how to set boundaries and use language in a meaningful way with their peers.
Most importantly, role play develops the child’s sense of self confidence because they realise they have the capacity to defend themselves and this is one of the most important parts of being a Gracie Bullyproof child.
A Gracie Bullyproof child is a confident child!
