When people think of getting in shape, one of the more popular classes they join to achieve their goals is martial arts. There is something truly alluring about moving with the same stealth, precision and speed as famous black belt celebrities like Bruce Lee or Jackie Chan. Martial arts include a variety of sports including Kung Fu, Karate, Tae Kwon Do, Ju Jitzu, Kickboxing, Muay Thai, Krav Maga, Jujutsu, Aikido, Judo, Wing Chun, and Hapkido to name a few.
Martial arts classes are excellent fitness activities for both children and adults. Individuals, families, and seniors participate regularly in group and private sessions. Regardless of your age or ability, there are many benefits to joining a karate or other martial arts classes.
1. Physical Benefits
Taking a Hapkido, Tae Kwon Do or other similar activity is an excellent form of physical fitness. The sport provides both aerobic and anaerobic movements for a full body workout. The kicking, punching, blocking, and striking movements improve muscle tone, cardiovascular function, respiratory rates, and blood flow.
The artistic movements also significantly improve your strength, coordination, and flexibility. It is a full body workout that has a positive impact on all areas of the human form.
2. Decreases Stress
The arts exercise classes are a great way to reduce stress. Physical fitness improves oxygen flow to the body and increases serotonin production. Serotonin is known as the happy hormone because it improves our mood. The more serotonin produced by the body, the calmer and happier a person feels.
3. Improves Self Discipline
Movements in theses classes improve your self discipline because you must focus on each step to perform and precise, sharp stroke. Drawing all your attention to each kick, punch, pattern, routine, or warmup exercise takes complete mental focus.
The rules that must be followed in the dojo or training room about uniform presentation, respect for others, class attendance and effort also instill a disciplinary measure that is often used in other areas of a pupil’s life.
4. Increased Self Confidence
Learning a new move, improving on what you are taught, adding more complex sequences, and moving to a higher belt level increases your confidence and feelings of self worth. Each class and belt rank provide each pupil with a measurable goal to work towards. Once you achieve your level, there is a feeling of accomplishment and self satisfaction that comes with the success.
5. Self Defense
Knowing how to protect yourself is important in today’s society. Martial arts classes teach you how to fight, block, evade, and defend yourself from others. The classes practice drills in each hand and foot action, then combines everything you have learned to combine them in sparring challenges against other students or competitors. The skills developed in each lesson can be easily applied to a dangerous situation, so you can protect yourself from a someone who wants to cause harm.
6. Weight Loss
Physical fitness improves muscle strength, agility, and cardio function. Each class burns a significant number of calories, and increases your metabolic rate, helping you lose weight. People who exercise regularly tend to naturally improve their lifestyle in other areas, including living and eating healthier which also helps in their weight loss goals.
If you are considering joining a fitness class, registering for lessons at your local martial art clubs is very beneficial. The sport provides many excellent mental and physical health benefits in a community-based setting with other like-minded fitness enthusiasts. Regardless of age or ability, every can be feel the rewards of martial arts.
