Do Something New in 2022

Seven Main Reasons Martial Arts are Important

1. Self-Defense

Self defense from attacker

The most obvious reason why you should learn martial arts is that it teaches you how to defend yourself. It is undeniable that there is violence in the world. It occurs unexpectedly and without regard for who the victim is. Violence can affect all of us. It is important to be prepared for such occurrences, and the crux of training is to learn offensive and defensive skills. Not only do you learn specific techniques, but you also develop toughness and stamina needed to endure a physical altercation. This knowledge and conditioning lead to other benefits besides just being equipped with techniques.

2. Confidence

When a person begins to handle themselves physically, they begin to develop confidence in their capabilities. You walk taller with your head up, you’re prepared, calm, and self-assured. You would be surprised at the change in your mental attitude after a decent sparring session at the dojo. You learn that you can endure, that you can apply real self-defense techniques, and that you are capable and strong.

3. Focus and Awareness

Focus and Awareness

During training, you must become aware of your actions and the people around you. As you become more aware of your environment, it will help to keep you safe out in the world. This broadening of focus and awareness is important in life and it can help in school, work, and in your relationships. Gaining a better understanding of how to focus and be aware, can greatly improve your ability to navigate your way through life.

4. You Make Friends

It’s an understatement to say that you make friends in martial arts. My experience is that your teacher and fellow students are family. Your instructor is more than just a teacher, he becomes a confidant, a father, and a mentor. Your friends at the dojo are part of your social circle, helping you through thick and thin. They become good people to have in your corner.

5. Reduces Stress the Right Way

Stress Reduction in Martial Arts

There are plenty of bad ways to reduce stress, and many of us have tried of them. Martial arts offers a positive way to reduce stress. You direct your energy in a physical way that is beneficial, and there is no doubt that hitting a punching bag is a great way to release pent up energy and stress.

6. Health

Martial arts is a complete workout. You build stamina, strength, and flexibility. You also develop coordination and balance. You feel better physically as your body becomes stronger and more capable. You breathe better, and blood flows to all the necessary parts of the body more freely. Martial arts is a great and fun way to stay in shape.

7. Improves Character

At the dojo, you learn respect, discipline, how to cooperate, and how to be humble. This is all part of perfecting your art. You work with your partners and learn from your instructor in a setting where bowing and handshakes are commonplace and helping each other is the norm. You must focus and be open to being corrected. You use criticism to improve yourself. The martial arts school is a great environment for learning the importance of perseverance and excellence.

Final Thoughts

Since March 11 2019, the Covid-19 Pandemic has changed the way we view and live our lives all over the world. Fast forward to February 2022, we have slowly been adapting to this new way of life and trying to better connect with our fellow neighbors. This is why many martial artists call their training a way of life. It permeates a person’s life and creates solid relationships and a sense of justice and respect. These are among the reasons why martial arts is so important.