Martial arts can only be described as divine. It is the ultimate combination of fun and fitness. While people avoid going back to a work- out routine, martial arts is always captivating. It is one of the best and fastest methods to keep fit and become a better person both emotionally and spiritually.
Types Arts of Martial
Originally, martial arts was used as a combative technique. Over the years, the art has evolved, taking various shapes and forms. It is now performed as a sport and a hobby.
1. Karate
Karate can be loosely translated to ‘empty-handed’ in Japan. The art involves punches and open hand chops. It is well known for its distinctive ranking, with the black belt as a symbol of the highest level of expertise.
2. Tai Chi
It art has its origin in China and is also known as Tai Chi Chuan. It involves a series of well-articulated slow body motions. Unlike karate, in Tai Chi, swords or other weapons are used. Although it is a martial art, it is practiced as a work-out activity in the West.
3. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
In the recent past, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) has recorded rampant growth. Its roots trace back to Japan, being characterized by strangles, joint locks, and throws. BJJ is practiced for a range of reasons, including stress relief, fitness, and just for fun.
Over the years, BJJ has gone through much evolution and refinement, as well as being embraced by many people.
4. Muay Thai
Although its roots remain mysterious up to date, its popularity has spread quickly. As the name suggests, Muay Thai is very popular in Thailand. The art has some interesting rules such as trimming toenails and having neat hair always. Keeping a beard is unacceptable. You can join the Muay Thai Portland Oregon program to get maximum benefits from this type of martial arts.
Benefits of Practicing Martial Arts
Practicing martial art is the best gift you could give to yourself or your child. Its benefits cut across all aspects of life. Some of them include:
Healthy Lifestyle
Due to the rise in lifestyle diseases today, any chance to fight or prevent them should be embraced. Martial art is the solution. A one-hour session of intense activity will see you burn around five hundred calories.
Due to its intensity, practicing martial arts encourages you to watch your diet hence being healthier in the long run. Proper breathing and meditation also improves your overall health.
Self-Confidence Boost
Nothing in life beats self-confidence. To master martial arts, one requires patience. Some skills can take years to master. In the process, you learn to push beyond your limits every day. Once you learn a particular skill, it comes with a fulfilling feeling of accomplishment, which boosts your self-esteem drastically.
The patience acquired in a martial art class plays a huge role in other day to day activities.
Weight Loss
Many people struggle so much with weight loss. Martial art is the gem when it comes to weight loss and body shaping. For instance, a one-hour Muay Thai class can burn up to one thousand calories.
According to research, there is a direct relation between the size of your waist and some lifestyle diseases such as heart diseases. Losing some inches around your waistline could help. Enroll in a martial arts class and start your weight loss journey.
A Sense of Purpose and Direction
If you are considering a way to discover yourself, don’t look further. Any form of martial art requires you to focus on your inner person. Through meditation and controlled breathing, you connect with your inner self, giving you a sense of purpose.
What are the Age Limits?
Martial arts has no age limit. It is a lifelong journey, regardless of where you begin. However, learning is significantly easier for a young person, as compared to an older person. The same applies to martial arts.
However, your age could dictate the activity most suitable for you. For instance, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes would be ideal for adults aged between 20 and 40 years. There are other mixed programs designed for younger kids, such as kickboxing. A 70-year-old can comfortably join a tai chi class.
Join a martial arts class to enjoy the multiple benefits that it offers. The activity is fun to engage in and it helps you learn more about your body.
