The Benefits of Martial Arts Training
by 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.


About the Author:

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.