A truly enriching hobby is one that teaches you valuable life skills. A little exercise never hurt, either.
This is the full package martial arts offers millions of people across the globe. Ancient fighting styles may come in many different shapes and sizes, but they all come from the same foundation — providing the individual with the means of approaching the world at their best. Should you be considering a new activity to enjoy alongside your family, the world of martial arts is a great place to start testing your limits. Your first order of business is getting in touch with your desires and asking what, exactly, you hope to achieve in the next few months.
Scratch the surface by learning about the history of martial arts — as well as the physical and mental health benefits — below.
Martial Arts Around The World
Just about every culture across the course of human history boasts a unique fighting form. According to some historians, tai chi dates back over 2,000 years. You can find krav maga in Israel — designed with the express purpose of being practical — and the well-known karate in Japan. China is commonly associated with kung fu, but this massive country is home to dozens of martial arts forms. Choosing one will help you learn new applicable skills and become healthier, little-by-little.
Growing Interest In Martial Arts
The past few years have seen a resurgence in martial arts interest. It’s not hard to see why, with the state of many American families. The American Heart Association commonly recommends children over the age of two engage in at least one hour a day of moderate physical activity. According to a new survey, a staggering two-thirds of parents today worry their child spends far too much time on electronic devices. It’s not just children struggling in this area — less than 5% adults today participate in 30 minutes of physical activity every day.
Physical Health Benefits
Kickboxing and muay thai are a great way to get healthy and look good while doing so. A mere one hour session of moderate intensity martial arts can burn up to 500 calories. Martial arts flex all your major muscle groups, with movement including (but not limited to) jumping, punching, running, jogging, and twisting. Kickboxing classes are designed to be accessible to beginners and seasoned veterans alike. Families do particularly well in these environments, motivating each other and learning more about themselves with each class.
Mental Health Benefits
Your mental health will also see a boost when you sign up for jiu jitsu. A study of older adults saw just over 50% of subjects practicing tai chi stating they had an improved sense of confidence, right alongside improved balance and general health. Some choose martial arts because they want to feel safer while walking home. Others want an activity more engaging than simply jogging or running on the treadmill. The reasons why you invest in martial arts will slowly, but surely, reflect back on you.
Choosing A New Form Of Martial Arts
Martial arts are a wonderful family activity that brings you and your loved ones together with a common cause. Those that want to improve their physical health can enjoy losing calories and building muscle with regular kickboxing. Others interested in the mental health aspect can see their confidence, self-image, and courage rising steadily with Brazilian jiu jitsu. A 2016 survey revealed the number of participants in martial arts (over the age of six) has neared four million. Change doesn’t happen in a day, but things are looking up for American health.
Embrace your better side. Look into kickboxing Portland classes and see what an old art form can do to bring out your best.
