Kids at Brian Mayes Karate in Harrisonburg are learning how to combat bullying through a special program created by Mayes. He called it the "Bully Busting" program, and he said now, more than ever, getting bullied is why kids sign up for karate.

"About 15-20 years ago, it was always self defense. How to physically protect yourself. Now these days, it becomes more confidence. Because he is getting picked on," said Brian Mayes, owner of Brian Mayes Karate.

One sixth grader in this program said that, even though he's big for his age, he found some use in school for what he has learned in karate class.

"Yeah it really helps me, even though my size, some people actually, like this one kid. If he gets mad, he starts kicking, so I have to defend myself," said student Shemar James.

One fifth grader in the class said she's worried about getting picked on as she gets ready to go to middle school.

"Not now, because I'm in elementary school. But middle school, I'm kinda getting worried because I'm in 5th grade," said student Allison Miller.

Their instructor, William May, talks about bullying even in regular karate classes.

But it's not all about responding with violence. In fact, Mayes said fighting with a bully is much more than that.

"What he really work on, is not just striking and punching. That's kind of a last resort, but how to carry yourself in a positive way. Confidence, shoulders up, making eye contact," said head instructor, William May.

Shemar's mom loved the mental lessons her son learned in karate class.

"Bullying can be taken to the next level. And I believe by being here, and getting the confidence in who he is as individual that that can only help him in the sense that he can diffuse instead of escalate a certain situation," said mother Cynthia James.

Allison's mom said the confidence building is what she loves most about her kids taking karate.

"If someone does pick on them a little bit, they know to either back away from them and avoid the situation, or standup for themselves. They're not afraid to now," said mom Leslie Miller.

And it's not just kids getting picked on that need help, but the bullies themselves. That's the type of student May has had in class many times.

"We have since showed them how positive martial arts can be and how it can be a positive influence in your life. We help them understand to be courteous and respectful, and make positve decisions," said May.

He said helping kids defend themselves is important, but stopping the cycle of bullying is key.

"A lot of bullies, as you probably know, are bullied. The bullied becomes the bully. So we try to make sure that the kids understand that and not to follow in that trend."

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