It is interesting how it somehow seems more believable when you mention statistics and research. Martial arts are commonly misunderstood as simply learning how to fight. Although fighting and subduing an opponent are components of martial arts training, at its core, it is much more profound. Many who practice martial arts choose it as a lifestyle. Martial arts are a mindset and embody an honorable philosophy. Pop culture brings martial arts to the front stage in anime and UFC, but quality and authentic martial arts training do not encourage aggressive behaviors. Although much of what makes martial arts unique and beneficial is how they transform individual lives physically and mentally, some statistics prove that martial arts can benefit anyone who chooses this experience.
How Martial Arts Benefit the Physical Body
The Center of Disease Control and Prevention reports that fewer than 20% of adults get the physical activity they need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. If people think about the many styles within martial arts, they will realize that Tai Chi, a non-combative martial art, is excellent for building balance and movement. Due to its individual nature, anyone can start martial arts training—there is no physical prerequisite to begin training.
There are countless sources for what constitutes physical activity that helps one’s health, and aerobic exercise is at the top of the list. What may surprise some is that martial arts are considered aerobic activity. Martial arts practice burns approximately 720 calories in a one-hour session, according to the Compendium of Physical Activities. This number is higher than many other activities, including swimming, walking, and basketball.
Some of the many health benefits of martial arts include flexibility, posture, weight loss, improved stamina and focus. Martial arts benefit physical health in many areas. In 2017, a literature review studied those practicing Karate, Judo, Taekwondo, Kung Fu, and Kickboxing, and found that the participants experienced improved bone density, muscle strength, cardiovascular, heart rate and cardiorespiratory functions. In older adults, martial arts research in 2014 showed results of better balance, strength, flexibility, and cardiorespiratory functions.
How Martial Arts Support Mental Health
It is common to hear about martial arts benefiting the mind and body. Claims of improved mental and physical health are typical of those practicing martial arts because martial arts are unique in that they require the engagement of the mind to be able to perform physical moves successfully. Contrary to what some believe, martial arts have been shown to directly correlate to less aggressive behavior and stronger emotional well-being. Several studies point towards martial arts benefiting mental health.
Martial arts promote spiritual and mental growth. The studies revealed some fascinating statistics that showed participants in martial arts displayed more self-control, and lower violent behavior, rule breaking, and impulsive reactions. When a martial arts group was compared to a dormant group of students, academic testing and creativity were higher.
Martial Arts Empowering Women
The martial arts stage seems to be dominated by males, but the self-confidence and self-respect that come alongside martial arts training have led countless women to overcome problems and challenges they face in their lives. Women are empowered through martial arts training because martial arts teach individuals to face and overcome obstacles, rise to the situation, and never lose sight of their value and self-worth in the process. Women are transformed through quality martial arts programs. In many martial arts studios, the skills related to self-defense empower women to know they can protect themselves.
Disabled People Benefit from Martial Arts
Martial arts benefit all people, and these include those with disabilities. In a 2002 study, martial arts students with physical, cognitive, and sensory disabilities responded that training in martial arts helped improve functionality and overcome obstacles of their disabilities. Instructors experienced working with students with disabilities can be a game changer in the life of someone with disabilities. Disabilities create different challenges, but martial arts teach all students to grow stronger and improve despite their limitations.
SwiftKick Martial Arts is dedicated and passionate about bringing the benefits of martial arts to every person. The instructors and staff support mental and physical growth in every training session, encouraging students to set and achieve goals. Thoughtfully designed and straightforward in its approach to martial arts, anyone can become part of the family at SwiftKick. Contact us today for a free training session and see what you have been missing!
Wish I could go back into time and see it with my own eyes it would be amazing