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The Benefits of Martial Arts Training
Clint Leung
As any martial arts practitioner will tell you, there are
multiple benefits in martial arts training. Of course, the
most obvious benefit is a knowledge of self defense which
is one of the major reasons why the martial arts were developed
in the first place. Knowing how to defend oneself and loved
ones in a potentially dangerous situation is an asset in today's
world just as it was hundreds of years ago. Unlike often portrayed
in the movies, martial arts are not just about fighting. Many
people take up martial arts for the fitness benefits as well.
Training in martial arts such as karate, tae kwon do, kung
fu and other martial art styles will improve one's cardiovascular
fitness as well as tone the muscular system. Strength will
increase from the calisthenics usually employed within martial
arts training but perhaps not to the same extent as working
out with weights. But overall power of one's body will definitely
increase since martial arts techniques teach how to use strength
effectively.
Most people will also improve their flexibility significantly
while training in martial arts since entire ranges of motion
from the body are exercised. This is especially true with
martial art styles such as tae kwon do, Thai kickboxing as
well as some schools of karate and kung fu where high kicks
are used. All martial art styles will result in an improvement
of one's coordination as well.
Unlike many other forms of physical activity, martial arts
also have a mental and sometimes spiritual element which not
only improves the mind's focus but also helps in self control.
Emotions such as anger and fear are better controlled through
martial arts. Many martial artists can find an inner peace
through their training. In today's hectic world, these particular
benefits translate into one of the most effective stress management
tools available. When training in a martial arts session or
in a group class, all the day to day troubles of the world
seem to be forgotten. People come out refreshed, energized
and ready to tackle the big world out there.
Training in martial arts usually involves many little steps
and progressions. As one advances in a martial art, the feeling
of accomplishment comes with added confidence. This is especially
beneficial for children who were not very confident in the
first place. An increase in self confidence for kids (as well
as adults) will have a cross over effect in other areas of
life such as in other sports and general self esteem. Other
challenges in life, both physical and mental, will be met
with much less fear.
An important benefit of martial arts training for parents
to note is that children will generally become more disciplined
from the unique formalities of martial arts classes. This
is one benefit that is often lacking in other sports. Former
'problem' kids with bad attitudes could become well behaved
and respectful as a result of taking martial arts a few times
per week. Respect is something that all martial arts instructors
place great importance in during their classes. Martial arts
kids are often very well behaved children no matter what social
economic backgrounds they come from.
Martial arts training has so many great benefits covering
physical, mental and emotional aspects that it's no wonder
why it has become one of the most popular activities for both
adults and children. However, it is important to point out
that not all martial arts programs will produce the range
of benefits discussed. Programs that teach just combat fighting
techniques may not result in the desired mental and spiritual
benefits so it is important to search around for the right
martial arts school that will offer the benefits one wishes
to achieve.
Clint Leung is a lifelong martial artist with over
32 years of training experience in kung fu, tae kwon do, karate,
kickboxing and martial arts weaponry. He has won Canadian
and world championship titles (NBL and WSKF). He is also owner
of Free Spirit Activewear (http://www.FreeSpiritActivewear.com),
an online retailer and designer of premium martial arts activewear.
Free Spirit Activewear has martial arts info articles.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Clint_Leung
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