Brazilian Jiu Jitsu can help both boys and girls to achieve fitness and focus. Some parents may think it can also promote violence, but that’s a myth, according to experts. The martial arts actually help teach self-discipline and socialization skills. In fact, many parents whose children have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) report great success with a martial art program because self-control and concentration are exactly the skills underdeveloped in ADHD kids.

A typical hour-long class begins and ends with a bow to the instructor. After a warm-up, students practice the art’s various techniques, which include throws, pins, and submissions.

Progress is marked through a belt system that takes a beginner from a white belt through several different colors until black. Working toward each new belt helps children learn to set and achieve long-term goals.

But the respect children learn, whether from bowing or standing still and waiting for the next command, that can be the most important benefit: It often carries over into school, helping to improve behavior and even grades.