How this coach uses martial arts to empower and instil discipline to kids

The room had an air of quiet purpose, the faint scent of polished wood lingering in the space. In one corner, a young boy named Ahmed stood quietly, his small frame and pale complexion a silent testament to years of battling asthma and chronic fatigue.
His shoulders slumped as if burdened by both his physical ailments and the loneliness that often accompanied them. Ahmed rarely spoke; his world revolved around the glow of his tablet screen, a digital escape from the challenges he faced daily. But today was different.
As he hesitantly stepped barefoot onto the cool surface of the karate mat, his eyes flicked nervously towards a line of children clad in crisp uniforms. The rhythmic thud of feet and the sharp shouts of concentration echoed through the hall like a call to something deeper—an awakening, perhaps, of his own strength.
Coach Nihad offered him a gentle nod—firm, welcoming, and free from pity. For the first time in a long while, Ahmed stood tall. His journey wasn’t about belts or medals. It was about breath, balance, and a silent fight to reclaim his vitality, one stance at a time. This was only the beginning.

In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, karate is transforming into much more than a collection of kicks and punches. It has become a vital tool in addressing several pressing issues faced by children in Oman—screen addiction, poor concentration, and low self-esteem. As a martial art rooted in tradition, the journey of karate from Okinawa to the global stage is a testament to its universal appeal and adaptability.
Karate’s origins trace back over a thousand years to the Ryukyu Kingdom, now part of modern-day Okinawa, Japan. Its practitioners initially developed it as a form of self-defence and spiritual discipline. By the 20th century, after Japan’s militarisation, karate spread internationally through military personnel and cultural exchanges, especially post-World War II. In the 1950s and 1960s, it gained popularity across the United States, Europe, and subsequently, the Middle East. Today, karate is practiced worldwide, with countless clubs and tournaments fostering a sense of global community.
The rise of karate in the Middle East can be attributed to its emphasis on discipline, respect, and personal growth—values highly regarded in Middle Eastern culture. Countries like the United Arab Emirates and Oman have embraced martial arts, integrating them into school curricula and community programmes. In Oman, this activity has started to take root as an accessible, inclusive sport that promotes health and confidence among youth.

Karate can serve as tools for empowering children. Its focus on discipline and respect offers a safe space for kids to build their self-confidence. For children facing social or emotional challenges, engaging in martial arts provides more than physical fitness; it nurtures resilience and mental strength.
Coach Nihad, with over ten years of experience, believes that karate’s true power lies in its core values.
“When children learn to respect rules and develop self-control, they carry those lessons into their daily lives,” she explains. “It’s about more than fighting; it’s about building character.”
Parents in Oman are increasingly recognising these benefits.
Faiza Said described how her nine-year-old son’s transformation through karate was remarkable. “He used to spend hours on his screen and struggled with focus. Now, he wakes up early, is more active, and he even puts away his phone to practice movements. It’s helping him find balance.”
Similarly, Salim Al-Hinaai’s daughter, once shy and reserved, has blossomed into a more confident individual through her karate classes. “She used to be afraid to speak up, but now she’s more expressive and assertive,” he shares.
The inclusivity of karate means that children from all walks of life can participate and benefit. It encourages responsibility, self-awareness, and resilience—all essential qualities in today’s complex world. Wafa Alsaidi, who enrolled her sons, highlights that these classes extend far beyond physical fitness. “My boys are more responsible. They handle school pressures better and are more disciplined,” she says.
In Oman, the growth of sport classes like karate signifies a shift towards holistic approaches to youth development. Schools and community centres are increasingly recognising the importance of physical activity—not only for health but for nurturing confidence and social skills. As the nation looks to safeguard its younger generation amidst the challenges of the digital era, martial arts like karate offer a balanced blend of sport, art, and therapy.
Ultimately, karate’s journey from a humble island tradition to a global phenomenon exemplifies its universal appeal and transformative potential. For children like Ahmed, it can be a conduit to better health, confidence, and emotional resilience. As Oman continues to embrace these activities, it is nurturing a generation capable of facing both the physical and mental challenges of modern life, grounded in the timeless values that karate instils.