Why Martial Arts?
When a child is undergoing treatment, it can feel overwhelming, isolating, and frightening.
But when a Black Belt martial artist enters the room—dressed in a full Gi—they don’t just see an instructor. They see a superhero.
Martial arts are often seen as a way to fight the ‘bad guys.’ Our students are facing their toughest opponent—illness. As therapeutic martial artists, our mission is to show them they are stronger than they think. We are all powerful martial artists. We just need to believe it.
Master Richard Plowden
9th-degree Black Belt, 5x World Champion
The MATIO Method
When a child faces illness, pain is never just physical.
It’s emotional. Psychological. Invisible. Overwhelming.
Our Method delivers customized therapeutic martial arts techniques – clinically evaluated, compassionately taught – that empowers children to manage their response to pain, stress, fear and anxiety.
The MATIO Method teaches non-contact traditional karate moves along with the mind-body techniques of meditation, breathing, relaxation, and visualization to dramatically lower pain levels.
The MATIO Method gives children the tools to access their inner power:
- Resilience
- Confidence
- Discipline
The MATIO Method is proven to reduce pain and emotional distress in children with chronic health conditions and their siblings.
Through use of the Method, participants transition from victim to victor—equipped with lifelong tools for healing and empowerment.