More of this Feature • Part 1: Introduction • Part 2: Physical Fitness • Part 3: Personal Security • Part 4: Learning Abilities • Part 5: Goal Setting • Part 6: Discipline • Part 7: Camaraderie • Part 8: Self-Esteem • Part 9: Respect • Part 10: Calming • Part 11: Girls • Part 12: Summary

Self-esteem is largely based on a student's self-worth; if students feel capable, able, and confident, then they enjoy a healthy self-esteem. Martial arts training builds self-esteem by providing small challenges that build incremental successes. Students learn that they can overcome the challenges as they improve in their training.

Many martial artists note that before they began training, they were awestruck and amazed by the seemingly superhuman feats that their instructors or senior students were able to perform. Yet after just a few months of study, they progress to a level where they too can do things they would have thought impossible. Challenges--like breaking a board--are surpassed and students feel a surge of pride in themselves and their abilities. As a result, they feel capable and alive.

Also, the physical security provided by martial arts training builds confidence--students do not have to worry any longer about the bully at school. This confidence enables students to feel better about themselves and their reactions to conflict.

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