Enrolling a child into a sports league can have numerous social and psychological benefits. The most obvious being health and physical activity— but it goes much deeper than that.
Sports can help children develop a sense self-esteem, respect, camaraderie, and patience, reports UQ Sports— but the martial arts, in particular, come with their own set of benefits.
In a Huffington Post blog, Stacy Nemour, who has taught children martial arts for over 20 years, explains,
“Martial arts training gives your son or daughter the chance to strengthen in mind as well as body. It encompasses not just the physical aspect of the “sport”, but mental and emotional lessons as well.”
And it seems like one group of toddlers in Madrid has been taught these lessons well, with an adorable video demonstrating that fierce competition doesn’t have to be unfriendly.
The video was filmed on March 23, 2014, by a father named Pedro Jose Moreno who was attending his 3-year-old daughter Leyre’s very first judo competition.
The video begins with Leyre preparing to face-off against her pint-sized competitor.
The two approach each other for a routine courtesy bow before getting down to business.
To call what they’re doing ‘fighting’ may require a stretch of the imagination— by all accounts, it’s more of an aggressive hugging match.
The two girls tightly grip each other’s tiny bodies in a bear hug, wiggling ferociously…
Until they both come toppling down.
The video continues in this manner for the next few rounds, until Leyre’s opponent appears to win the match with another adorable, hug-like takedown.
Instead of gloating over her victory, however, the little girl shows empathy for her fellow competitor, wrapping her up in an enormous hug.
According to Ruptly TV, Leyre suffers from delayed growth, making her the smallest Judo fighter in all of Spain. This video just goes to show that, despite a tiny stature, Leyre still has one hell of a heart.
Since being uploaded online, this adorable sparring session has charmed viewers everywhere as a result of its out-of-this-world cuteness. Everything from the pint-sized outfits to vigorous bows, adorable tumbles, and aggressive hugging make for a delightful viewing experience.
In a world where athletes are popularized for trash talk and hate, Leyre and her pint-sized competitor are a refreshing reminder of innocence and fun.
Good job, Leyre!
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