The Science-Backed Benefits of Filipino Martial Arts (Open Hand Only) for Kids

In today’s fast-paced, high-stimulation world, many parents are looking for activities that not only keep their children active but also support their emotional, cognitive, and social development. While traditional martial arts like karate and taekwondo are widely known, Filipino Martial Arts (FMA)—particularly the open-hand system—offers a powerful, lesser-known alternative.

Unlike weapon-based FMA training, open-hand techniques focus on flow, coordination, and control, making them safe and ideal for young practitioners. Backed by developmental science and research, FMA helps children build focus, confidence, body awareness, and self-regulation, while also providing practical self-defense skills.

Building Focus and Executive Function

One of the most remarkable benefits of Filipino Martial Arts for kids is its positive impact on executive function—the mental skills involved in attention, self-control, and problem-solving. Open-hand FMA emphasizes pattern recognition, rhythm, and quick decision-making, all of which activate the prefrontal cortex.

According to developmental neuroscientist Adele Diamond, movement-based programs that engage both sides of the body and brain can significantly improve children’s attention span, working memory, and emotional control (Diamond, 2015). The structured drills in FMA, such as hubad lubad (a partner-based flow drill), help children develop these foundational skills through movement rather than screens or seated instruction.

Enhancing Coordination and Motor Skills

From striking sequences to footwork and partner drills, FMA builds fine and gross motor skills with precision. These movements not only improve athletic ability but also support tasks like handwriting, balance, and spatial awareness. A 2014 meta-analysis published in the Journal of Sport and Health Science found that “open-skill” exercises—those involving responsive, unpredictable interactions like martial arts—led to significant improvements in coordination and cognitive performance in children (Chang et al., 2014).

In FMA, kids learn to move with purpose and control, strengthening neural pathways between the brain and body. The result is improved balance, timing, and physical confidence—skills that extend far beyond the training space.

Strengthening Emotional Regulation and Resilience

Martial arts are often portrayed as aggressive, but in truth, open-hand FMA teaches the opposite: calm under pressure, redirection instead of force, and confidence over conflict. This approach aligns with research showing that martial arts training can reduce aggression and enhance emotional regulation in children (Zivin et al., 2001).

Because FMA teaches kids to respond—not react—they gain the tools to manage stress, frustration, and social challenges with greater ease. This emotional resilience is one of the most important predictors of lifelong well-being and success.

Fostering Respect and Cultural Awareness

Filipino Martial Arts are deeply rooted in Filipino culture, values, and history. Students bow to their partners, address instructors with honorifics, and learn the origins of the techniques they practice. This instills a sense of respect, humility, and cultural appreciation at a young age—qualities often overlooked in traditional sports.

Research on social-emotional learning (SEL) supports the idea that exposure to diverse cultural practices and value-based instruction enhances empathy, cooperation, and interpersonal skills (CASEL, 2020). FMA not only builds strong bodies but also shapes kind, curious, and respectful individuals.

Teaching Practical, Nonviolent Self-Defense

Finally, open-hand FMA gives kids tools to protect themselves in age-appropriate, nonviolent ways. Techniques include escaping holds, deflecting grabs, and creating space—all without the use of strikes or weapons. This form of self-defense promotes empowerment without aggression, helping children navigate the real world with both confidence and compassion.

Twemlow et al. (2008) found that martial arts programs emphasizing discipline, control, and traditional values helped reduce violence and improve behavior in school-aged children. By teaching children to manage physical encounters safely and thoughtfully, FMA offers more than just protection—it fosters maturity and critical thinking.

A Holistic Path to Growth

In a culture that often separates physical fitness from mental health and social development, Filipino Martial Arts provides an integrated, science-backed path to all three. It encourages movement, mindfulness, and mastery in equal measure.

Whether your child is naturally shy or bursting with energy, the open-hand practice of FMA offers a safe, supportive, and enriching environment to grow. It’s not just about learning to move—it's about learning to live with presence, purpose, and respect.

References:

• Diamond, A. (2015). Executive Functions. Annual Review of Psychology, 64, 135–168.

• Chang, Y.-K., et al. (2014). Effects of open- and closed-skill exercise on cognitive function: A meta-analysis. Journal of Sport and Health Science, 3(4), 255–263.

• Zivin, G., et al. (2001). An effective approach to violence prevention: traditional martial arts in middle school. Adolescence, 36(143), 443–459.

• CASEL. (2020). Social and Emotional Learning and Equity.

• Twemlow, S. W., et al. (2008). The application of traditional martial arts practice and theory to the treatment of violent adolescents. Adolescent Psychiatry, 33, 239–249.

• Lakes, K. D., & Hoyt, W. T. (2004). Promoting self-regulation through school-based martial arts training. Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology, 25(3), 283–302.