If you're looking for a fun way to stay fit, learn how to defend yourself, and achieve a healthy balance of mind and body, practicing martial arts may be for you! Many forms of martial arts, including karate, tae kwon do, and kung fu, have been popular in the United States for decades, with studios offering lessons in just about every city in America. Children as young as 4 up through senior citizens can benefit from the teachings of martial arts. Here are just a few of the health benefits that come with regular practice of karate and other martial arts.

Strengthening and Toning

Since many forms of martial arts rely on basics such as punches, kicks, and blocks, participants can look forward to an amazing muscle conditioning workout with every class. Using hands, feet, and elbows to attack, counter, and block can help build and strengthen muscle, improve muscle tone, and help you achieve your personal fitness goals.

Weight Loss

Looking for a way to burn calories while learning a valuable skill? Martial arts are ideal for someone who wants to lose weight but doesn't enjoy the gym. An hour of hands-on practice of your preferred form of martial arts can burn just as many calories as an hour on the elliptical, but will be far more enjoyable!

Flexibility

As we age, our bodies naturally lose some of the flexibility we had as kids, and our range of motion tends to shorten. This can lead to hip, knee, and back problems as we get older. By participating in an activity that promotes flexibility and agility, such as martial arts, we can ensure that our bodies will be able to bend and flex without injury for years to come.

Posture

No matter which martial arts discipline you choose to practice, you can be sure that you will be tested and corrected on your form, including your posture, as you learn basic fighting stances and forms. This will go a long way towards improving your overall posture in your daily life, which can lead to less back pain and a taller-looking, more confident self!

From the moment you put on your karate gi, you are giving yourself the gift of untold health benefits, not to mention an extremely valuable education in proper self-defense techniques. Your mind and body will thank you for making the choice to enroll in a martial arts class!