THREE YEARS OLD might seem a bit young to introduce a child to a fighting hobby but there’s more to martial arts than just kicks and punches.

Martial arts and fitness instructor Steven Nettleford from Worcester has been running his own club at St Mark’s Church Hall, Cherry Orchard, for three years – including a special class for early starters called Little Ninjas.

Three nights a week youngsters - both boys and girls - aged between three and seven years go along for 30 minutes of exercise, fun and a healthy dose of discipline.

According to Steven, a 2nd Dan, each child can get something different out of the classes depending on their needs and what the parents want.

He said: “Little Ninjas is our children’s class that promotes fitness, focus and discipline. It is a great way to prepare them for Worcester Martial Arts and Fitness’s classes when they are old enough to make the step up.

“Our classes involve games, weekly homework tasks and of course we teach them martial arts suitable for their age range.

“Children are rewarded for their continued efforts and improvements in the form of stickers and belts as they progress which is key to keeping them motivated.

“The classes are all themed. Focus, discipline, stranger danger, self defense, self control and balance are examples of how we structure our classes.”

Steve, who works with instructor Carl Beards, said the Little Ninja classes also have two or three assistants to help the children. “Kids learn differently – some might need a bit more direct coaching.

“We have graduations every three months where the students receive belts. This a great way to reward improvements and is also perfect for goal setting. The children always get feedback to let them know what they need to do, to be ready for their next belt.

“What makes our classes fun are the varied tasks, challenges and games that we use to keep them fresh. We also give children and parents ideas for games that they can use at home.”

Steven said in many cases the Little Ninjas class helps to build confidence in these youngsters. “Some of them might be shy and want to build their confidence, some of them are very energetic and need to release that energy and some of them are bored and want something to do. Until you see each child you don’t know why they’ve come and what they’ll get out of it.

“They also get discipline if they are naughty or not paying attention. We know if they are putting in the best and as long as they are trying hard we reward them with games.

“We also talk to the parents about what they want to get out of it and how they are getting on at school. Sometimes the parents bring them for fitness or it might be because they are being bullied.

“Some of the children love it straight way and others need more time. It is a fun place for kids.”

Steven, who qualified as a martial arts instructor in 2008, said there is an even split between boys and girls. “Girls love it and because it is a social activity, their friends often come along too.”

For more information about Little Ninjas littleninjasWMF@outlook.com and visit www.worcesterkarate.co.uk

Steven also offers martial arts themed children’s birthday party-packages, which are fun, educational and structured birthday party including martial arts, fun and games, food and the chance to cut a birthday cake with a real sword – under supervision!