What you see as pointless is in fact good conditioning of the mind and body, something that reduces anxiety in the parents and boosts confidence in the kids. An

What you see as pointless is in fact good conditioning of the mind and body, something that reduces anxiety in the parents and boosts confidence in the kids. Anyone who learns a martial art with the intention of getting into fights, well, is an idiot. You need to take a long view of the martial arts, instead of a short one. Two years of practice won't teach you jack shit. A lifetime of it can be very fulfulling. Many people have difficulty seeing the benefits in kata training, but it really is one of the best ways to learn to apply techniques correctly. As for practicality, what does that even mean? Do you frequently need to punch people in the teeth?