Activities like karate are a fun way for both boys and girls to achieve fitness and focus. Martial arts help teach self-discipline, socialisation skills and concentration.

A typical hour-long class begins and ends with a bow to the teacher, or master. After a warm-up, students practice the art’s particular skills, which may include kicks, punches and blocks. Each requires concentration and strict attention.

Progress is often marked by the belt system, which takes the beginner from a white belt through a variety of colors until black.