Why Self-Defence and Anti-Bullying Strategies Matter More Than Ever

In Australia today, bullying and school violence are unfortunately on the rise. A recent survey found that nearly half of all children have experienced bullying at school, with many facing exclusion, name-calling, and even cyberbullying. Alarmingly, principals report that violent incidents in schools have increased by 82% since 2011.

The impact of this is severe. Children who are bullied often suffer from low self-esteem, anxiety, poor academic performance, and in some cases, thoughts of self-harm. Families feel the strain too, as parents look for ways to protect and empower their kids.

That’s where karate — taught in the right way — makes all the difference.

At Yushukan Karate, we take a proactive approach to bullying. Training here goes beyond self-defence techniques; it’s about confidence, discipline, and resilience. Our students learn how to:

• Stay calm under pressure.

• Defend themselves effectively if necessary.

• Use courtesy and respect to de-escalate conflict.

• Carry themselves with confidence, making them less of a target for bullies.

Parents often notice the change quickly: children become more self-assured, disciplined, and positive — traits that carry into school, friendships, and family life.

Bullying may always exist in some form, but with the right strategies, young people can face it with strength. At Yushukan Karate, we’re proud to provide those strategies.