Why Is It Important to Learn Martial Arts?



Posted: Wednesday, November 25, 2009

by Robert Jones
Academy of Kempo Martial Arts

The term Martial Arts can cover many styles of combat, such as Karate and Kung Fu - think Chuck Norris and Bruce Lee. Over the years, many styles have been elaborated on and new forms of combat have developed. There is for sure a style out there for each and every one of us. I personally favor Kung Fu, with Bruce Lee being a personal idol of mine. This form of combat brings so much to the health of the body, mind, and the spirit.

For those who have never attempted to learn a martial art, the whole thing might at first appear overrated and impossible to get into unless you sport a ripped set of muscles and superhero amounts of energy. We get this from watching the likes of Jackie Chan in the movies - his stunts and fighting moves are so extreme, how could we ever get to that standard - and is it worth even trying? Well to be fair, those who are so advanced in their style of combat have got there by a lot of hard work and commitment, in order to fulfill their ultimate dream.

However, everyone has to start somewhere and whatever level of fitness you are currently at, martial arts can help you in more ways than you think. Let's have a quick look at some of the benefits that comes with learning a martial art.Probably the first thing that comes to mind is the benefits on your health and fitness. Unlike other sports and fitness programs, choosing a martial art will pass all expectations. In terms of health, it will not only help to prevent common physical illnesses, but will improve mental health too. You will enjoy a better night's sleep, a clearer mind to think and work with more gusto and an ability to remain calm, yet vigilant. Your level of fitness will increase; you will become stronger, more agile and you will learn to endure when times get tough. Everything that you learn can be used in everyday situations and boost productivity in the work.

Martial arts is not for anyone who wishes to use it wrongly against innocent people. Martial arts should be used to build on self-confidence and not to intimidate others. However, self-defense is something that we could all do with educating ourselves with. You just never know when you might be faced with a situation that requires you to defend yourself. Self-defense is a protective measure of which all the basics and more can be learnt alongside your chosen martial art.

If you are new to martial arts, it would be a wise idea to follow the advice and training program of someone in the know - a professional instructor. Before you choose an instructor, do a little background research. Anyone who doesn't have accreditation from a national or international association, with the authority to teach should be avoided. If you have the opportunity to see them at work, this can show you their teaching style and philosophy. They should never be too demanding of a student, abusive or try to humiliate. As well as the combat itself, they should teach about discipline and healthy living in all areas of life.

Master Robert Jones is a respected Martial Arts teacher who runs three successful schools located in Bellevue, Lynnwood, and Federal Way, Washington. He has been helping families make positive changes in their lives through martial arts for over 20 years. He also has written a guide on how to pick a martial art school. You can get a free copy of his guide at Martial Arts Info. He can be reached at the Academy of Kempo Martial Arts and Self Defense. 1-800-508-6141.
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Top-level comments on this article: (2 total)
» left by Robert Miller
 2 years 173 days ago.
8 fans.
Very informative.   I think that anyone considering martial arts should read this article whether they are to be the students, or the parents of students.  It is a total commitment once you begin, otherwise it is of no use and just a waste of money.
In the immortal words of Mr. Miyagi "walk one side of road karate yes, ok, walk otherside road karate no, ok walk middle road karate guess so and squish like grape"
» left by John Herren
from Texas 237 days 19 hours ago.
For people who are considering taking martial arts this article is a very good thing to read. I teach martial arts myself and I am considering opening my own school. It explains why we shouldn't look at people like jackie chan or jet li as to what martial arts is. Each person reason for being in martial arts is different. Best rule I can say about learning martial arts is that through studying you should look to gain mastery over yourself, NOT mastery of others less skilled then yourself.
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