We know that learning self-defence is a good way to get in and stay in shape. However, the benefits don’t stop there. Learning self-defence or martial arts can boost confidence. It can also improve balance, awareness, and self-discipline, among other benefits.

If you’re considering having your children learn martial arts or undergo it yourself, we’ve got some benefits that could encourage you to go for it!

Types of martial arts

Karate and Kung Fu (China), Judo and Aikido (Japan), Jiu-Jitsu (Brazil), Muay Thai (Thailand), and Krav Maga (Israel) are typical types of martial arts. Some people also undergo mixed martial arts training (MMA), considered a hybrid combat sport for professionals.

Seven benefits of learning martial arts

Respect: Your martial arts training will help develop self-respect and respect for others. When learning martial arts, you are encouraged to respect your mentors, teachers, and those wearing a higher belt. The training also promotes respect for one’s opponents. Being respectful can be used in professional and social settings to create positive relationships.

Full workout: Practicing martial arts can give you a full-body workout. Martial arts entails doing repetitive muscular actions. Over time, you can burn fat and increase strength, flexibility, and agility. Since most martial arts are high-intensity workouts, you will witness your body transforming with consistent training.

Less stress and anxiety: Meditation, mindfulness, and deep breathing are part of martial arts training. You learn how to keep your mind focused while being alert and calm. Your training can boost endorphins and allow you to practice patience. While training, your attention is entirely on the work you are doing, so you worry less about problems.  

Confidence booster: Martial arts equip you with skills to defend yourself in threatening situations. You’ll notice your confidence growing as your training progresses. Martial arts training can instil accountability, improve your social skills and create a balance between confidence and humility. The confidence you gain also builds perseverance in other areas of your life. For some, rigorous practice can increase awareness of accomplishing goals.  

Increase self-discipline: Your martial arts sessions will provide you with structure and direction that encourage you to focus on achieving your goals. In class, you will be in the company of goal-driven, disciplined, and self-motivated people. It will become easier to eliminate distractions while doing the work to succeed at tasks. The self-discipline you obtain from your training will be helpful in other areas of your life.

Improve heart health: Martial arts training has some similarities to high-intensity interval training (HIIT), known for improving cardiovascular health. Your training could help lower cholesterol, improve heart health and regulate insulin and blood sugar levels.

Increase mental stamina: Regular martial arts training can improve physical, emotional, and mental resilience. Some martial arts training includes mindfulness, breathing exercises, and physical workouts to help regulate your emotions. Activities like martial arts produce a noticeable change in the brain that supports memory and learning skills.

We hope you’ll find this information helpful. Use our Find Yello listings if you or someone you know are ready for martial arts training. Type “martial arts” into the search bar to locate businesses or related services near you.

Sources: Level 3 Karate, WebMD, Psychology Today, and Way of Martial Arts.