Teens, Screens & Confidence: Why Movement Matters
Teens today are more connected—and more anxious—than ever. In an age where digital 'likes' often feel like the truest measure of self-worth, it’s understandable that many young people grapple with their confidence. The constant stream of seemingly perfect lives on our screens can leave even the most resilient teens feeling inadequate, leading to increased anxiety and a quiet struggle with self-belief.
At Hold Down BJJ, we see this challenge firsthand. While screens offer incredible connectivity, they can also distance young people from the very thing that builds true confidence: engagement with the real world, and especially, engagement with their own bodies.
From my years in elite sport, I’ve learnt that confidence isn't something you're born with; it's something you build, step by step, through experience and effort. And crucially, a significant part of that building happens through physical movement.
When a young person steps onto the mat in a martial arts class, they enter an environment where the 'likes' don't matter. What matters is effort, focus, and persistence. Each new technique learnt, each challenge overcome, each small victory in mastering a movement – these are the genuine building blocks of confidence.
Physiologically, structured physical activity helps regulate the nervous system, reducing the 'fight or flight' response that anxiety triggers. It releases endorphins, natural mood boosters, and improves sleep patterns, all of which contribute to better mental health. For teens often overwhelmed by mental clutter and digital noise, the clarity that comes from focused physical effort is invaluable.
Psychologically, martial arts offers a unique path to confidence. It teaches self-discipline, not as a punishment, but as a path to mastery. It fosters resilience by presenting challenges that require consistent effort to overcome. There’s no hiding behind a filter on the mat; it’s about showing up as you are and working with what you have. This honesty, coupled with the supportive structure of our community, helps teens develop a strong sense of self-worth that is independent of external validation.
We see young people arrive quietly, sometimes hesitant, and watch as they gradually blossom. They learn to trust their bodies, to push past perceived limits, and to understand that setbacks are simply part of the learning journey. They discover that true strength comes not from never falling, but from always getting back up.
This isn’t just about learning self-defence; it's about learning self-respect, self-awareness, and self-belief. It's about giving teens the tools to navigate the complexities of their world with calm confidence, knowing they have inner resources to draw upon.
We believe every young person deserves the chance to feel strong, capable, and confident in their own skin. If you’re a parent seeing your teen struggle with the pressures of the digital age, we invite you to explore how movement, and specifically martial arts, can make a profound difference.
Ready to see the difference for your teen?
We offer a free trial class at:
Ruakākā: Tuesday and Thursday at 5:30 PM
Mangawhai: Monday and Tuesday at 5:15 PM
You can also sign up for a family meeting to discuss how Hold Down BJJ can support your teen’s journey towards greater confidence and well-being.