Martial Arts Instructors Near Me

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FAQs:

What is Martial Arts Training?

Martial arts training develops the physical and mental aspects of being a warrior (whether to defend against dangers in the civilian world or the military/law enforcement professions).

A more technical martial arts definition is unarmed and/or weapons-based combat training for self-defense or police/military actions. This training is structured and taught by skilled instructors. Martial arts students learn and constantly practice techniques such as kicks, punches, grappling, and/or weapons handling (i.e. wooden Bo staffs). 

Examples of well-known martial arts are Shotokan Karate, Muay Thai, Krav Maga, Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), and Taekwondo. Nevertheless, there are hundreds of other popular martial arts styles.

What is Martial Arts?

Martial arts refer to a broad range of traditional and modern combat practices and systems. The approaches are rooted in cultures and philosophies from around the world. They are practiced for a variety of purposes, including self-defense, mental wellness, and competition.

Martial arts encompass countless styles and disciplines, each with its unique techniques, principles, and cultural backgrounds. Martial artists employ several different styles of striking and grappling techniques, as well as weapons training or a combination of the two. 

While martial arts involve physical combat, they often also embody philosophical and moral principles that promote values such as discipline, respect, humility, perseverance, and self-control. Martial arts training is a holistic approach to human wellness.

How Many Types of Martial Arts are There?

There are about 180 different types of martial arts globally, comprising thousands of fighting styles, techniques, and forms. Most of the renowned martial arts styles originated from Asia, but we also have some from other parts of the world.

Is There an Age Limit for Starting Martial Arts?

No, there is no specific age limit for starting martial arts training. People of all ages can learn and benefit from practicing martial arts, including children, teenagers, adults, and seniors. Many martial arts schools offer classes specifically tailored to different age groups and skill levels, so anyone can find a program that suits their needs and goals. However, it's important to consult with a physician before starting any new physical activity, especially if you have underlying health conditions or injuries. Additionally, certain martial arts styles may be more physically demanding than others, so it's essential to choose a style that aligns with your fitness level and abilities.

Can You Start Martial Arts Training at Home?

Yes, you can start martial arts training at home. Whether you can do it effectively is another question. If you want to become an elite MMA fighter or boxer, then training at home isn’t a good choice. In fact, most martial arts have some element of combat involved, so you’ll need to find a trained sparring partner. Remember that just because you can start training at home doesn’t mean you should always train at home. You’ll progress faster if you learn from an expert. Without an exceptional teacher to provide feedback and insight, you’re not going to reach your full potential as a fighter. You need a trained professional to help correct your form and work on advanced techniques.

What are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Starting Martial Arts Training at Home?

When starting martial arts training at home, it's essential to be mindful of common mistakes that can lead to injuries and setbacks. Some common mistakes to avoid include neglecting proper technique and form, overtraining, and skipping warm-up and cool-down exercises. To ensure that you stay safe and injury-free during your workouts, it's crucial to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your training. You should also wear appropriate safety gear, listen to your body, and rest when needed. Incorporating cross-training exercises can also help build strength, flexibility, and endurance. By following these guidelines and avoiding common mistakes, you can make significant progress in your martial arts training while staying safe and injury-free.

How Long Does it Typically Take to See Progress in Martial Arts Training?

The time it takes to see progress in martial arts training varies depending on several factors, such as the style of martial arts, the frequency and intensity of training, and the individual's natural ability and dedication to practice. Typically, beginners can start to see progress within a few months of consistent training, such as improved fitness, flexibility, and coordination. Learning the basics of a martial art can take several months to a year, while mastering advanced techniques and skills can take several years of dedicated practice. However, progress is not always linear, and there may be times when progress seems slow or stagnant. It's essential to maintain a positive mindset, be patient, and focus on consistent training to achieve long-term progress and success in martial arts.

What is a Martial Arts Training Centre Called?

A dojo is a hall or place for immersive learning, experiential learning or meditation. This is traditionally in the field of martial arts, but has been seen increasingly in other fields, such as meditation and software development. The term literally means "place of the Way" in Japanese.

Which Martial Arts is the Best?

Each martial art has something different to offer, so it’s unreasonable to pit one against the other in a general manner. One person may get more out of learning wing chun, while another will gain far more from mastering Judo. When it comes to martial arts, it’s about much more than the movements and physical exercises you do in training. It’s about what it teaches you on the broader spectrum of life. So, instead, it would help to focus on which martial arts is best for you. Are you more interested in self-defense, or are you looking for a hobby to help you relax? Perhaps your main interest is in combat sports. Do you prefer long-range or close-range fighting styles? By determining what you want, you’ll identify the martial art that suits you best.

How Long Does it Take to Master a Martial Art?

There’s no fixed period for how long it takes to learn martial arts. How fast you master skills and techniques depends on your commitment to training. Most students learn fundamental skills within a year, with weekly or bi-weekly training sessions. It takes an average of 3-5 years for most beginners to start climbing up the ranks, but this also depends on the complexity of the martial art in practice. Learning martial arts is a lifelong process—it’s not something you can learn to a point and be done with. With thousands of techniques in some forms of martial arts, there’s always something new to learn.

What Does A Martial Arts Instructor Do?

Martial arts instructors train their students in self-defense and combat techniques. They teach private lessons and group lessons in martial arts studios and dojos. As teachers, they plan engaging lessons and schedule a variety of classes. Above all, they ensure that students feel respected, safe, and supported. In addition to teaching, they must improve their own training.

The History of Martial Arts

Martial arts is an ancient form of combat consisting of a variety of methods and techniques for fighting, defending oneself, and attacking. It encompasses physical, mental, and spiritual disciplines that help practitioners develop strength and skill. Martial arts styles can vary greatly in terms of the weapons or tools used (including fists, feet, and swords), how much contact is involved in a given technique or practice session (contact-based vs non-contact training), and the emphasis on forms or self-defense scenarios. Generally speaking, all martial arts styles share a common purpose: self-improvement through physical training while incorporating elements of personal discipline.

Martial arts originated from various parts of the world and are believed to have been practiced since at least 2,000 BCE in Ancient Greece. It has evolved over the centuries and many different styles have developed depending on the region or culture in which it was practiced. The most popular forms of martial arts today come from East Asia, including Japan and China, with other popular forms originating from India, Southeast Asia, Europe, and Brazil. Many people consider Asia to be the center of the martial arts world as many of the most prominent martial arts such as kung fu, karate, and hwa rang originate from the region.

Over the years, martial arts have been shaped by a culmination of factors including ancient myths and legends to historical revolutions. Since the beginning of time, different cultures have developed styles of fighting in order to survive, but it is Chinese martial arts that have endured and flourished more than in any other country.

Martial arts evolved with the development of human physiology and have grown into what we now recognize as martial arts in the modern era.  Below, Beemat takes a look at the history of martial arts and how it has evolved over thousands of years to become what it is today.

Importance of Martial Arts

For many people, martial arts is an integral part of life. People practice martial arts as a sport, a hobby, an artistic expression, or a regimen for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Skills learned in the study of martial arts can be applied in other aspects and relationships in life.

1. Self-Defense

The majority of those signing up for martial arts have personal safety as their main reason for training. Violence is a reality that is faced by everyone and martial arts training provides necessary skills to increase chances of survival. Students learn and practice risk avoidance and fighting skills that they can apply should their safety be at risk.

2. Self-confidence

Fear and lack of knowledge and skill contribute largely to poor self-confidence. Martial arts training provides tools that enable people to learn and apply skills that help them realize not only what they are capable of but also give them a sense of pride from knowing what they have accomplished. Fear is reduced from knowing there are skills to draw upon when attacked. As students progress to new levels, challenges are met with less apprehension and with more drive to persevere and succeed.

3. Overall Health

Physical, mental, and emotional well-being are the other major reasons why people sign up for martial arts training. Consistent training not only conditions the mind and body to have strength and stamina to fight back in a violent situation but also helps the body fight disease, and stay flexible, strong, and active as people age. Martial arts provide stress relief and ways to release pent-up energy. Together with a healthy diet martial arts training gives people a well-rounded regimen that they can do anytime and anywhere. People take control of their well-being by being mindful of and making adjustments to things that they know could affect them.

4. Community

Martial arts in itself is a community. While martial arts were first used by people to secretly train together to fight against oppressors, today’s martial arts have become a community with an even bigger purpose. It’s where people meet and share with others their passions. It’s where you find people of all ages and from all walks of life to learn from and pass on knowledge. It’s where people train hard, celebrate the wins and happy moments, and comfort in times of trouble and loss. It is where people can improve themselves and where they can be of service to others.

The Three Pillars of Martial Arts

Martial arts is more than learning how to physically defend ourselves.  It is important to know how to use self-defense, but knowing when to use it is equally important.  At times we can diffuse a heated situation through words to prevent anyone from getting hurt.  In order to make such distinctions, we focus on the three pillars: self-discipline, self-control, and respect.  These rules are what distinguish a martial artist from an attacker.  We also apply the three pillars to how to live our lives positively; how we interact with friends and family and how to improve our efforts at school, work, and hobbies.

1. Self Discipline

Self-discipline is doing the things we know we should do when we should do them without being told.  If someone is attacking us we must defend ourselves or escape the situation to avoid injury.  Aside from self-defense situations, demonstrating self-discipline shows that we can be responsible and reliable.  We can help our parents by doing chores around the house, making the bed, and cleaning up after ourselves without our parents telling us.  Taking care of ourselves by eating healthy, brushing our teeth, exercising, and going to bed at a reasonable time to prevent physical ailments also shows good self-discipline.  We also study for school, do our best at our job, and practice improving personal hobbies like guitar, painting, ballet, or martial arts to demonstrate our diligence.  Self-discipline is key to being active.

2. Self Control

If we think of self-discipline as “What to do”, self-control is “what not to do”.  Self-control’s definition is: controlling our behavior to fit the situation.  If the situation is “being attacked in the parking lot at night” we use self-control to regulate counter-attacking to an appropriate amount.  In other words, self-control is the difference between putting your attacker on the ground rather than in the ground.  If the situation is a heated argument at school, we can use self-control to change the subject or avoid it to diffuse the situation.  This way, tensions won’t flare into a physical fight.  Other ways we can use self-control are preventing disruption, like keeping quiet in a library or raising our hand to ask a question in a classroom.

3. Respect

We define respect as treating others the way you want to be treated.  How we treat others is a reflection of how we want others to treat us.  This is why we don’t start fights with others because we don’t want others starting fights with us.  Respect develops our relationships with friends, family, and anyone we interact with.  For example we can address our parents and teachers with “sir” and “mam” as a form of respect to elders.  Another way to show respect is to say “please” when we request help and “thank you” to show gratitude after being helped.  Respect is also one method of consideration when using the other two pillars.  We can decide how to demonstrate self-control and self-discipline after we ask ourselves: “How would I feel if he treated me this way” or “How would I want her to help me”.

Top 10 Reasons to Learn Martial Arts

If you're considering martial arts either for yourself or your child, it's a great choice! There are so many benefits to both your physical and mental health. But it can be tough to commit to something new. That's why we put together this guide with 10 reasons you should learn martial arts. Check it out below.

1. INCREASED CONFIDENCE

Increased confidence is something that martial artists of all ages enjoy. Whether it's for you or your child, martial arts can help you improve your confidence. Practicing, improving, and succeeding at a skill improves self-image and gives participants confidence that they can succeed in other areas and ventures. In fact, children who participate in karate or a similar martial art show improved confidence and even better performance in school. So, if you're looking to improve your child's self-confidence or yours, martial arts are a great activity to do so.

2. FULL BODY WORKOUT

Are you looking for a new form of exercise? Martial arts is your answer. That's because martial arts truly provide a full-body workout. Consistent practice has been shown to increase overall mobility, improve your body's pressure response, and increase muscle. Because so many martial arts involve repeating muscular actions over time you'll build strength and burn fat. Who doesn't want that? Looking for a way to increase strength and build muscle quickly and intensely? Kempo can do it for you. It’s a full-body martial art that combines the athletic abilities of Karate, Judo, Kung-Fu, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This is an ideal martial arts system to accomplish those goals.

3. INCREASED FLEXIBILITY

Repetitive movements like high kicks, low stances, fancy footwork, and ground maneuvering improve flexibility and mobility which will benefit your overall health. Did you know that flexibility has many health benefits? Some of them include improved posture, better freedom of movement, reduced muscle soreness and tension, improved relaxation of mind and body, and reduced risk of injury

4. BETTER COORDINATION

All martial arts require spacial awareness and coordinating movement with another person. Some martial arts even include the use of props and tools. All of these factors improve the coordination and awareness of the participant's body as well as the people and objects around them. Practices like Kempo encourage the lower part of the body to act as a base from which the upper body can maneuver and operate – this idea has been borrowed by many martial art systems including Krav Maga.

5. SELF-DEFENSE SKILLS

One obvious benefit to learning martial arts is an improved ability to perform self-defense maneuvers in situations where there is a real threat. According to recent data, an aggravated assault occurs every 43 seconds in the United States. Martial arts can prepare practitioners to defend themselves in life-threatening and dangerous situations. This is great for you but also really great for your children as well.

6. LOWER BLOOD PRESSURE AND HEART RATE

Participants in martial arts have been shown to have lower blood pressure and heart rates. But that's not all. Because of its similarity to H.I.I.T. (high-intensity interval training), martial arts can improve overall heart health, lower cholesterol, and provide more regulated blood sugar and insulin levels. Say hello to a healthier body and happier life! Martial artists enjoy all the physical benefits of regular exercise without having to run on a treadmill or lift weights. It's a great option to improve your health.

7. WANT TO IMPROVE YOUR MENTAL STAMINA? LEARN MARTIAL ARTS

Recent research showed that aerobic exercise (like martial arts) actually produced a physical change in the brain that promotes better memory and learning skills. The same study observed that a new case of dementia is observed every four seconds globally. Those who want to prevent this debilitating condition can fight it by participating in martial arts. This is a great benefit that many people aren't aware of when it comes to martial arts.

8. IMPROVED SOCIAL SKILLS

Martial arts can also help you develop social skills. This is because of the team environment. You're working alongside people with the same goals as you, learning and growing together.

This is especially beneficial for children. In martial arts classes, they'll be able to learn how to resolve conflicts, make new friends, and show compassion. Being in a new environment can be scary for kids, but learning how to navigate that situation in a safe controlled environment is a great skill that will benefit them for life.

9. DEVELOP SELF DISCIPLINE

By attending martial arts classes you'll become accustomed to direction and structure. In this environment, you have to pay attention to the task at hand and rid your mind of distractions. It's also crucial to realize that achieving your martial arts goals depends on you. No one else can do it for you. This promotes self-reliance and independence! You're the one who needs to put in the work to improve and grow. To be your best, you need to be dedicated and put in the required effort. As you progress you'll gain self-discipline that will be beneficial in every other aspect of your life as well.

10. STRESS RELIEF

Did you know that practicing martial arts can help relieve stress? Often this is accomplished by focusing on the present and things you can control. Many forms of martial arts also emphasize being in complete control of your breathing and thoughts. When you do this you're learning a skill that can be applied throughout all areas of life. When you’re more focused and confident and your thoughts are more clear you’ll relieve yourself of stress in so many other parts of life too.

More than anything, going to martial arts class will help you leave with an increased mental focus and a greater appreciation for the world around you through a fun, safe, and challenging workout in an encouraging environment with like-minded people.

Top 10 Types of Martial Arts

Listed below, you will discover 10 different martial arts types available. These most common martial arts are also prevalent. Go through each martial art style and enrich your knowledge.

1. Taekwondo (Korea)

It is the most scientific and systematic traditional Korean martial art type. Taekwondo traces its roots to the 600 AD royal court and tribal fighting systems but modern Taekwondo began back in the 1940s. Taekwondo introduced many different & superb kicking techniques and styles to the combat world. Kicks of taekwondo evolve into fun or flashy techniques. Practitioners who are professional in “Tricking” perform these techniques. This style of martial arts can adapt to a unique style that matches other types of fighting. But due to its nature, different taekwondo schools or training institutes teach taekwondo making it considerably less threatening.

2. Kung Fu (China)

Kung Fu refers to Chinese martial art. It is designed to purify the mind and body. The Shaolin Temple is the birthplace of Kung Fu. At this place, monks practiced it for self-defense and health while they were in their search for enlightenment. Kung Fu has different styles and variations, such as Shaolin, Tai Chi, Wing Chun, etc. All the styles of Kung Fu differ in their techniques. However, all the styles stick to the same root principle. In Kung Fu, it is vital to strike fast & hard. You will have to combine your power with speed to defeat your enemies quickly. The practitioners of Kung Fu also learn different weapon skills. They discover the use of various weapons such as spears, staffs, swords, and so on.

3. Judo (Japan)

Judo is a type of martial art. It is a dynamic and tremendous combat sport demanding mental discipline and physical prowess. Combining Jujitsu and Judo was founded in 1882. Originating in Japan, Judo is now recognized worldwide as a sport in the Olympics. Judo has many different styles as well. All the Judo styles use different takedowns and throw to defeat the enemies and neutralize any aggressive situation. Though Judo derives from Jiu-Jitsu, it specializes in chokes, trips, joint locks, throws, and sweeps. The Judo techniques don’t include any deadly methods. Therefore it is one of the safest martial arts for sports. If you want to learn self-defense, Judo can be the best type of martial art intended for you. Still, you will find some moderate striking methods, but don’t worry if you face any practical combat situation; a basic Judo throw can weaken your enemy. It is also the best type of martial arts you can learn.

4. Aikido (Japan)

It is a non-aggressive, modern form of martial art that originated in Japan. In the early 20th Century Aikido was founded by Morihei Ueshiba. It doesn’t involve any offensive moves. The mildest form of martial arts is Aikido. It specializes in neutralizing a combative situation but won’t cause any harm. So, how does Aikido work? It works by setting up the control of your enemy with the wrist lock. Also, it attempts many different takedowns and throws. While practicing Aikido, you and your opponent will need to eliminate all types of resistance. Why? It is to avoid any wound with the throws and locks. In practice, Aikido is amazing to witness. It includes incredible meditative properties. However, the combat effectiveness of Aikido doesn’t match other forms of martial arts. This is because Aikido doesn’t focus on making someone #1 or champion rather it insists on helping someone reach his own highest level. Most importantly, martial arts don’t prioritize making you a winner but growing your inner self.

5. Karate (Japan)

It is another martial art type. Karate is a self-defense and unarmed combat system that focuses on the weak parts of the attacker’s body. Karate began its journey back in the 1900s. Though it was developed in Japan, Chinese martial arts influenced it most.  In the 1950s Karate was spread out worldwide. To defeat the opponent, Karate uses different kicks and punches. When you practice Karate, you will learn different techniques such as staff and swords. Different variations of Karate are available. Each variation prioritizes various Karate aspects like weapon training or Katas. However, all the variations will teach several fundamental techniques of Karate that are very powerful.

6. Muay Thai (Thailand)

Muay Thai is a martial art style based on strikes. It uses the feet, shins, knees, elbows, and hands for striking. It is also called Thai boxing. Muay Thai began its journey thousands of years ago. It was practiced to protect the country against invaders. Muay Boran is called the predecessor of Muay Thai. Muay Thai is a powerful style of stand-up striking. Many fighters in different divisions of MMA organizations highly appreciate the effectiveness of Muay Thai. They use it as the initial striking method. When you practice Muay Thai, you’ll have to use eight body parts. Why and what are these? It is because Muay Thai helps you to deliver some robust strikes. You will use your elbows, knees, legs, and hands. Besides strikes, you will learn about high-pressure techniques for clinching in Muay Thai. Clinching techniques will deteriorate an average person when messed up with a pro. The practitioners of Muay Thai also get training in takedowns and sweeps to counteract kicks and earn points in matches.

7. Jeet Kune Do (China)

Jeet Kune Do is a “street combat” system or martial art. It offers technical and philosophical knowledge. Jeet Kune Do was popularized by Bruce Lee back in 1969. Do you know who developed Jeet Kune Do? Can you guess? Yes, you are right! It’s Bruce Lee who developed it.

Jeet Kune Do combines techniques and principles of Karate, Judo, Wing Chun, and Boxing. This combination is highly powerful in producing a spontaneous and active fighting style. The term Jeet Kune Do means “The way to intercept fists.” This style of martial arts heavily concentrates on combining offense and defense as well. It prioritizes the quickest counterattacks. The strategies and styles of Jeet Kune Do match the philosophy of Bruce Lee. The students of Jeet Kune Do learn how to respond to any situation instead of living with it.

8. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (Brazil)

It is a form of self-defense or martial art that depends on wrestling/grappling and techniques of submission to overcome an opponent. BJJ originated from Judo in 1882. Jigoro Kano coined this style of martial art. The term BJJ or Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is derived from Japanese Jiu-Jitsu. It is a unique martial arts form that was developed to pick the most practical and valuable techniques. In contrast to Judo or Jiu-Jitsu, throws and takedowns are not too crucial in BJJ. However, this different martial arts form will prepare you to use the size of your opponents against them. It is a good style in combat scenarios. You can neutralize your opponents by using choke and joint locks. BJJ helps you get prepared to defend yourself from any attack on the back. Also, it discovers exceptional methods to execute a reversal so as to get a dominant position.

9. Kendo (Japan)

Kendo is a Japanese martial art closely related to the Samurai. Kendo started its journey over 200 years ago. It was developed by the Samurais who used “nihonto” (swords) in combat.

Kendo is a style of martial arts that teaches you how to make use of Katana. Katana is a Japanese blade mainly used in wars. You will learn how to use Katana in different sequences and ranges. You will need protective gear and a bamboo-made sword while getting training on Kendo. The word Kendo originated from Kenjutsu. Kenjutsu was very popular in Japan throughout the Edo era. With time Kendo has evolved into a popular sport. In competitions, Kendo has a point system also. Above all, Kendo keeps Kenjutsu’s spirit alive. How? It teaches the practitioners about lethal sword skills. The brave samurai once used these fatal sword skills.

10. Krav Maga (Israel)

Krav Maga is a dynamic, modern, and effective fighting and self-defense system developed in Israel. People of all ages, sizes, and shapes can practice it. Imi Lichtenfeld back in 1930’s developed Krav Maga. It is a type of military tactic for self-defense. The Israeli Defense Forces of Israel developed Krav Maga. This style is highly effective for professional fighters and ordinary citizens. Krav Maga makes its practitioners ready for different types of threatening scenarios such as ground situations, multiple attackers, knife threats, and many others. It also blends different styles of Judo, Wrestling, and Boxing. Different Street fighting fundamentals are also included in Krav Maga. It is a versatile form of martial arts. It is not a spot exactly, but it makes you prepared for any situation.

Top 12 Health Benefits of Martial Arts

Not only does martial arts provide many physical benefits, but it also gives you a great sense of discipline and achievement as you work your way up to a black belt. By improving your skills during practice, you can build a healthier body, mind, and lifestyle. Martial Arts is an excellent activity to take part in whether you are a child or an adult. In this article, we’ll go over some of the best benefits you can get out of martial arts no matter what age you are.

Physical Benefits

1. Weight Loss

Improving your muscle tone and muscle mass can help you improve your metabolism, which is one thing that can contribute to weight loss. Martial arts are a great form of exercise, especially if you’re practicing at least 2-3 times per week.

2. Mobility

Many martial arts disciplines require agility and mobility. By practicing martial arts, you are sure to improve your body’s ability to move faster.

3. Reflexes

Whether you are sparring or fighting in a competition, dodging and blocking your opponent’s attacks is crucial. By learning moves through repetition, your reflexes will start to improve, and you’ll begin to notice that you have faster reaction times in every part of your life.

4. Strength

Proper form is essential in order to execute an effective kick or punch, but you need strength to make sure your attack is powerful. By practicing martial arts, you have the opportunity to train your body to become stronger and more formidable.

5. Coordination

Martial arts require students to have good stability and coordination when it comes to executing moves, blocking, and avoiding attacks. As you practice, you will quickly improve both your stability and coordination.

6. Flexibility

Dodging attacks and performing moves such as high kicks require quite a bit of flexibility. Having a more flexible body can help reduce the likelihood of injury, and certain martial arts disciplines can help you significantly improve your flexibility.

7. Cardiovascular Health

Cardiovascular health is important to manage, especially since it is closely linked to your heart. Drills done during training can help you build cardiovascular endurance and increase the positive impact of aerobic exercise.

8. Blood Pressure

Martial arts require quite a bit of training, which contributes to improved fitness. One of the physical benefits of taking part in martial arts is improved blood pressure. Repetitive movements during training can behave like high-intensity interval training which improves your cardiovascular health by lowering your blood pressure and slowing down your resting heart rate.

Mental Benefits

9. Self-Confidence

Martial arts training is a great way to develop a good sense of confidence. Because martial arts techniques require patience and attention to detail, many moves in various disciplines can take years to master. Once students learn the techniques though, they feel accomplished, which empowers them with good self-esteem and a high level of confidence. Martial arts require you to push your limits and discover a great deal about yourself during training. The more we begin to learn about our minds and bodies, the more confident we will become in our own skin. You’ll be able to see the increased self-confidence gained through martial arts in other areas of your daily life as well, whether it be in an office or a classroom.

10. Values and Morals

During your martial arts training, you will learn some of the greatest and most important lessons in life. Because martial arts teach people about how things work and how to incorporate these lessons into their daily lives, many often find that it gives them direction and purpose. Whether you are in an office, at home, or in a classroom, the values you learn from martial arts can have a significant impact on your daily life. While martial arts are demanding, it is important to realize that while on your journey, you are learning values, morals, and the discipline of martial arts. It takes determination to become a master at martial arts, but the strength and positive traits you pick up along the way will stick with you for the rest of your life.

11. Focus

Not only are martial arts a rigorous physical activity, but they enhance the mind and body. One of the great benefits that martial arts provide to mental health is increased focus on our inner being. If you want to get the most out of martial arts, you have to pay attention to your state of mind. You’ll learn proper breathing techniques, meditate, and practice martial arts principles such as courage, respect, perseverance, and honor. The technique is important in martial arts, and through learning techniques, you will be synchronizing your mind and body, thus directly enhancing your focus. As you practice martial arts, your body and mind will become stronger and healthier, making it easier for you to focus better.

12. Improved Mood

Did you know that practicing a regular exercise routine is one of the best ways to improve your mood? Not only do martial arts allow you to relieve stress and release frustrations in a safe environment, but they may also make you happier. The endorphins that are released during physical activity can be active in your body for as long as 4 hours after your exercise!

List of Martial Arts Sports

Martial Arts have ventured into sports when forms of sparring became competitive. For example, the Olympic Games have judo, taekwondo, archery, boxing, wrestling, and fencing. There are martial arts competitions that are being competed in non-sparring ways, these are competed through choreographed routines like poomse, kata, and aka. There are a number of martial arts nowadays which include dance-influenced competitions like Tricking. Some martial arts include the use of weapons and equipment, like breaking boards, punching bags, and makiwara. One of the most popular martial art competitions today is the MMA competition Ultimate Fighting Challenge or UFC.

There are three martial arts that are part of the Olympic Games, Karate, Judo, and Taekwondo, and another lobbying for inclusion, Wushu.

1. Aikido (Sport Aikido) — a Japanese martial art that typically involves throws, joint locks, and pins, designed to redirect an attacker's energy and neutralize their attack.

2. Amateur Pankration — a modern version of the Ancient Olympic sport of Pankration.

3. Beach Sambo — a modified version of sambo played on the sand, with bouts lasting three minutes, without penalties and mat wrestling.

4. Budō — a term referring to the variety of Japanese martial arts, such as sumo, jujutsu, judo, kendo, aikido, and karate.

5. Capoeira — a form of martial art from Brazil that has a combination of aspects of dance moves, acrobatics, movements, and music.

6. Drunken Boxing (or Drunkard's Boxing or Zui Quan). It is a concept in traditional Chinese martial arts.

7. Karate — a martial art developed in Japan that uses punching, kicking, knee strikes, elbow strikes, and some open-hand techniques.

8. Krav Maga — a military system developed in Israel known for its focus on real-world situations and its extreme efficiency.

9. Judo — the objective is to throw or takedown the opposing player to the ground.

10. Jujutsu — a Japanese martial art using close combat for defeating an armed and armored opponent, with only a short weapon or none at all.

11. Brazilian Jiu-jitsu — a combat sport from Brazil based on ground fighting and submission holds, developed from judo and jujutsu.

12. Kalaripayattu — an ancient martial art from Kerala, India.

13. Kung Fu — a general term for Chinese martial arts, the competition format is Wushu.

14. MMA — a full-contact individual combat sport that includes aspects of several other combat sports and martial arts.

15. Naginatajutsu — a Japanese martial art of wielding the naginata, a weapon resembling the medieval European glaive.

16. Ninjutsu — The traditional Japanese art of the Ninjas - incorporating stealth, camouflage, and sabotage, now practiced as a martial art.

17. Northern Praying Mantis — a style of Chinese martial arts, sometimes called Shandong Praying Mantis.

18. Okinawan Kobudō — weapon systems of Okinawan martial arts, also known as Ryūkyū Kobujutsu.

19. Pencak Silat — a fighting sport from Indonesia that collectively encompasses martial arts of various styles.

20. Sambo — a martial art developed for Russia's military and police force in the 1930s. The term translates as "self-defense without weapons".

21. Silambam — a traditional Tamil martial art from India that mainly uses a bamboo staff.

22. Taekwondo — a self-defense discipline that originated in Korea.

23. Vovinam — a Vietnamese martial art.

24. Vajra-mushti — an Indian martial art in which a knuckleduster-like weapon called the Vajra-mushti is employed.

25. Varzesh-e Bastani — a traditional Iranian martial arts. The sport is practiced in a gymnasium called Zourkhaneh, which is another name by which the sport is known. Also called Varzesh-e Pahlavani.

26. Wushu — a full-contact sport derived from traditional Chinese martial arts, also known as Kung Fu.

Common Injuries in Martial Arts

Most injuries occur when the participant is struck with their opponent’s hand or foot. Common injuries include:

1. Skin damage - such as cuts and bruises.

2. Sprains - injury to ligaments (the tough bands of connective tissue that hold joints together). A common injury is plantar fasciitis, which is bruising or overstretching of the plantar fascia ligament that runs along the sole of the foot.

3. Strains - injury to muscle or tendon. For example, a muscle may tear from the rapid stop that occurs when you make contact with an opponent or object.

4. Knee injuries - caused by the bent-knee stance typical of most martial arts and the use of forceful kicks that can injure the joint if not done properly.

5. Dislocations and fractures - particularly of the hand, finger, foot, and toe.

6. Overuse injuries - any part of the body can be injured by sheer repetition of movement.

How to Practice Martial Arts Safely

The most common martial arts injuries are sprains, strains, cuts, and bruises. Broken bones also occur. These injuries frequently affect the knee, ankle, shoulder, and elbow. Hands are particularly vulnerable to injury during striking martial arts.

Striking martial arts also results in more injuries to the head, face, nose, and mouth. Concussions also occur. Some types of martial arts incorporate moves and holds that may result in neck injuries.

Several strategies can help to prevent martial arts injuries, such as using proper protective equipment and having thorough training and supervision in new techniques.

Proper Preparation

1. Get a physical examination. It is important to see your doctor before participating in any sport. A patient history and physical exam are necessary in almost all high school and college sports; however, community sports and martial arts tend not to require such documentation. Cardiovascular, neurologic, and musculoskeletal problems should be thoroughly evaluated by a healthcare professional, such as a primary care doctor before you start any training.

2. Maintain fitness. Be sure you are in good physical condition when you begin martial arts training. Fatigue during training and competition often leads to poor technique and injury. Do not do an activity if you are too tired to do it safely. 

3. If you are out of shape at the start of your training, gradually increase your activity level and slowly build up to a higher fitness level. It is essential to build your strength and endurance before trying complex martial arts techniques. Running, jumping rope, biking, and swimming are good cardiovascular activities to help improve your fitness level. Anaerobic exercise, such as strength training and plyometrics will also improve performance.

4. Warm-up. Always take time to warm up. Research studies show that cold muscles are more prone to injury. Warm up with jumping jacks, or running or walking in place for 3 to 5 minutes.

5. Cool down and stretch. Stretching at the end of exercise is too often neglected because of busy schedules. Stretching can help reduce muscle soreness and keep muscles long and flexible. Be sure to stretch after each training practice to reduce your risk of injury.

6. Hydrate. Even mild levels of dehydration can hurt athletic performance. If you have not had enough fluids, your body will not be able to effectively cool itself through sweat and evaporation. A general recommendation is to drink 24 ounces of non-caffeinated fluid 2 hours before exercise. Drinking an additional 8 ounces of water or a sports drink right before you exercise is also helpful. While you are exercising, break for an 8-ounce cup of water every 20 minutes.

Ensure Appropriate Equipment

1. Headgear is essential when sparring.

2. Cups and protective waist belts add protection to the groin area.

3. Use a mouthguard to protect your teeth, mouth, and tongue.

4. If you wear glasses, use safety glasses or glass guards to protect your eyes.

5. Wrap your hands with the appropriately sized wraps and with proper technique. Properly wrapped hands will feel secure. Wearing gloves when appropriate is also recommended.

6. Proper footwear is important. On matted floors, avoid socks or footwear that may cause you to slip. In many cases, going barefoot provides the most stability. Talk to your coach or supervisor about which type of footwear would be best for your activity and skill level.

Focus on Technique

1. Spotting (watching and monitoring) is essential. A coach or supervisor should spot participants during all sessions, especially when complex or challenging moves are being performed.

2. Protecting yourself during a fall should be one of the first techniques you learn and perfect. Being thrown by an opponent at high speed or falling onto your neck or head can result in serious injury.

3. Practice new techniques at half speed. It is also helpful to talk to your coach or supervisor before attempting a new move to ensure you understand how to safely execute it.

4 Understand the dangers of performing submission holds incorrectly.

- Know how much force may inflict injury.

- Know your opponent's level of experience. Newer participants may not understand when they are in danger of injury.

- When being held, recognize when you should tap out for your safety.

5. Understand which part(s) of your body is in danger with each specific move.

- Arm Bar - elbow, forearm, shoulder

- Triangle choke - throat, neck

- Americana - shoulder, elbow

- Kimura - shoulder, elbow

- Heel hook (one of the most dangerous moves) - knee, ankle, foot

- Guillotine - neck and throat

6. In competitive martial arts in which weight classes are used, cutting weight may be a standard practice. If you are considering cutting weight, check with your doctor or a trained dietitian to determine a healthy way to safely lose weight.

Ensure a Safe Environment

1. Practice in a well-padded area.

2. Be aware of your surroundings while other participants are practicing to avoid collisions.

Prepare for Injuries

1. Coaches, trainers, and other staff should be knowledgeable about first aid and be able to administer it for minor injuries, such as facial cuts, bruises, or minor strains and sprains.

2. Be prepared for emergencies. All coaches, trainers, and other staff should have a plan to reach medical personnel for help with more significant injuries such as concussions, dislocations, contusions, sprains, abrasions, and fractures.

How to Find a Good Martial Arts School

This page focuses on how to find a good martial arts school. It was designed to help parents with young “future martial artists” and adult beginners. These questions should be answered to your satisfaction. Talk to instructors, students, and parents of the students attending the martial arts school in order to learn the pros & cons of a specific martial arts school.

1. Pick a school based on your martial arts “goals” – Do you want to concentrate on self-defense instruction? Do you want to learn more about a foreign culture? Do you want only a good cardio workout? You need to decide on your personal martial arts goals and find a school that best matches those goals.

2. Examine several schools – Check out several schools, rather than just going to the closest martial arts school. The teaching style of schools can vary significantly (from very regimented to overly loose).

3. Research the expertise and background of the instructor – Watch out for fake 8th-degree black belts. Those tend to be 80 years old, not 25!

4. Watch the instructors carefully – You want to find instructors that teach well and make the class enjoyable.

5. Ask questions – Talk to other students, parents & children at the school in order to find out their likes and dislikes about the school and instructors.

6. Visit different classes – After you have found an interesting school, visit different classes (versus just the basic introductory class). Visit the black belt classes, sparring classes, and even the belt tests. See if the school’s attitude changes as the children advance. You don’t want to find a school that changes in a negative way (i.e. becomes too harsh) as your child progresses to higher belts.

7. Focus on safety – Is there enough stretching? What happens if a child is hurt? What level of supervision is given during sparring classes?

8. Always get an introductory trial – See if your child enjoys martial arts training before committing to any long-term contract. Ask if the school has a short introductory trial offer that covers a few weeks and use that time to see if your child enjoys the school and is mature enough to handle the instruction. Also, be wary of a “cheaper” multi-year contract. Try the “more expensive” monthly programs until you feel certain that your child likes the martial arts school. Many kids do not last multiple years in martial arts as they have other commitments (i.e. school sports) or lose interest.

9. What is the “real” cost? – Make sure to find out the real cost of the class. Beyond the monthly/annual fee, what additional costs will you pay? Be aware that you are likely to pay for items such as uniforms, sparring gear, and belt tests.

10. Consider the location of the school – If it is too far away, you might find it hard to go frequently and thus quit or fall behind the other students.

 

Sources:

Gymdesk

Black Belt Wiki

The Karate Blog

Level 3 Karate

Santa Clara Kenpo Academy

Beemat

Karate America

The Coolist

Made 4 Fighters

Black Belt Wiki

Gokempo

Wikipedia

Indeed

OrthoInfo

Better Health Channel

 

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.