Martial arts training carries the same risks as any other sport, although less so than team sports like soccer and football. The answer lies in the martial art you decide to study. You are much more likely to get hurt if you train Karate with no contact than if you teach Boxing and sparring three times a week. The following are reasons for everyone to study martial arts.
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· Self-Defence
Most people take up martial arts for this very reason. Regarding self-defence, it does not matter which martial art you pursue. In addition to teaching practical self-defence skills, martial arts instil a defensive mindset that makes it easier to spot and avoid threats.
· Physical Fitness
In southern China, the monks were relatively inactive. Thus, the martial art of Kung Fu was created to get them moving. Students today still engage in martial arts training to improve their physical fitness and coordination. Students develop flexibility as a side benefit of their sports training.
Every class begins with a series of technical drills and warm-up exercises. Callisthenics for warming up, instruction from the instructors, and drills are the staples of any martial arts lesson. Students finish each class with some form of cardiovascular activity, the intensity of which varies by the martial arts style. Keeping physically engaged is essential for optimum health.
At higher levels, students engage in physical activities like sparring. Stretching and cool-down cardio are typically reserved for the conclusion of practice after the warm-up and technical drills have been completed.
Of course, this varies from class to class and style to style within martial arts. Nothing beats training in the authentic skills of military combat. Martial arts are more demanding than team sports like basketball or soccer because they tap into the body’s “fight or flight” mechanism.
· Mental Strength
Martial artists hone their minds as much as their bodies throughout training. Focus and concentration are essential for mastering the intricate techniques used in martial arts. Students develop the ability to focus under duress, which is beneficial in sparring and the classroom.
Students build muscle memory for the skills their chosen discipline requires through regular practice. Memorisation and the ability to repeat processes are transferable talents that can also be used in the classroom.
· Discipline
Martial arts are great for building character and community. Discipline is honed when students of martial arts work to improve their form. Maintaining composure when performing martial arts techniques is essential.
Every martial artist knows it is entirely up to them to improve their skills. Martial arts training helps students develop a discipline that is useful in other areas of life.
· Develop Lasting Friendships
Although martial arts are an individual discipline, they are also highly social. The passion for martial arts you and your training companions share will serve as a solid foundation for lifelong friendships.
They will act as a support system that holds you accountable if you fail your training and encourage you during competitions. Over time, you may spend more time with some outside the dojo.
Conclusion
Why not try martial arts today if you are still on the fence? You will reap the many benefits of martial arts training in no time, including new alliances, a more muscular physique, and increased mental fortitude.
