Top 6 Health Benefits of Martial Arts

If you have no previous experience in martial arts, it is still a great activity to pick up even as an adult. Here are the top 6 health benefits of martial arts: 

Total body workout: Martial arts is a high-aerobic workout that uses every muscle group in the body. Your energy, muscle tone, flexibility, balance, coordination and strength cardio will all improve through martial arts. 

Focus and stillness: As Bruce Lee pointed out, behind the punches, kicks and knees, a true martial artist learns to sit with himself and see where his weaknesses are. As a martial artist, you will learn what it is to be still, challenged and focused.

Better mood: Researchers have found that participating in a regular exercise routine is one of the best ways to improve your mood. Performing martial arts is not only a good way to relieve stress and frustration, but may actually help to make you happier. The endorphins released by physical activity appear to be active in your body for as many as four hours after exercise. 

Improved Cardiovascular Health: One of the most important exercise benefits associated with martial arts is an improvement in your cardiovascular health. Your cardiovascular system is composed of your heart, as well as the veins and arteries that transport blood. A weak cardiovascular system can result in shortness of breath, weakness, fatigue, and in severe cases can even cause a heart attack. Research has found that the only real way to improve the status of the cardiovascular system is by participating in activities that stress the heart. Cardiovascular exercise consists of walking, biking, swimming and of course participating in martial arts.

Improved reflexes: Participating in martial arts not only improves your reflexes, but actually gives you faster reaction times during all activities of your life. This is very important in a number of daily activities, such as driving.

Teaches great morals and values: After consistent martial arts practice, one becomes less impulsive and aggressive towards others. The Bushido emphasizes honor, respect, discipline. This reminds students of the right attitude, frame of mind and virtues to strive for inside and outside the studio.