Side Breakfall (Kids Version)

The side breakfall is an important technique that helps children learn how to safely fall to the side without getting hurt. This technique is essential for protecting the body, especially the head, hips, and arms, during a fall.

Steps:

1. Start Position:
• Begin by sitting on the mat with your legs straight out in front of you, slightly apart. Sit up straight with your back tall. Make sure you’re on a soft surface or mat to protect your body during practice.
• Cross your arms across your chest, keeping them relaxed.
2. Prepare to Fall:
• Keep both legs straight out in front of you, with your feet slightly apart. Maintain your arms crossed over your chest, preparing to fall to either side.
3. Tuck and Roll:
• As you begin to fall to the side, tuck your chin slightly towards your chest to protect your head. Allow your body to roll onto the side of your hip and thigh. As you lean, lift the opposite leg slightly off the ground, allowing your body to tip to the side.
4. Absorb the Impact:
• As your body rolls to the side, extend the arm on that side (for example, your right arm if you’re falling to the right) out at a 45-degree angle to the floor, palm facing down. Keep your elbow slightly bent to absorb the impact. Simultaneously, slap the mat with your palm and forearm as your body makes contact with the ground. Your other hand should remain crossed over your chest.
5. Leg Position:
• As you fall, the leg on the side you’re falling to (e.g., the right leg if you’re falling to the right) should remain slightly bent, while the opposite leg stays straight and slightly lifted off the mat. Your legs should create a “V” shape as you land.
6. Head Protection:
• Keep your chin tucked and your head slightly off the mat to protect it from hitting the ground. Your head should not make contact with the mat during the fall.
7. Recover Position:
• After absorbing the impact, use your hands to push yourself back to a seated position, ready to practice again.

Key Points to Remember:

• Control: Focus on a smooth, controlled motion as you fall. The goal is to protect your body and head.
• Tuck and Protect: Always tuck your chin and keep your head off the mat. Your arm and leg position are key to absorbing the impact.
• Soft Landing: Use your arm and leg to absorb the fall, keeping your body safe and relaxed.

Practice and Safety:

• Practice slowly at first, concentrating on getting the form correct.
• Always practice on a soft surface or mat to protect your body during the fall.
• Remember, safety and control are the most important aspects of learning this technique.

By mastering the side breakfall, children will develop the confidence and skills to protect themselves from falls in a safe and controlled manner. This technique is an essential part of building a strong foundation in martial arts.