Martial arts provide much more than personal protection and safety. Some of these practices, including kickboxing, Muay Thai, jiu jitsu, and tai chi offer health and wellness benefits as well. They are often used as sources of exercise and physical fitness for people of all ages around the world.
Different Types of Martial Arts
While martial arts, such as tai chi and kickboxing, date back as far as 25 centuries, there are many more that have been brought into the United States. By 2017 almost two-and-a-half million Americans participated in different martial arts as a form of fitness. Some of the different types of martial arts that are available throughout the United States and worldwide include the following:
- Tai chi
- Muay Thai
- Kickboxing
- Karate
- Judo
- Jiu jitsu
- Brazilian jiu jitsu
Among these and other forms of martial arts, there are many benefits as well. As mentioned, these are often recognized as forms of personal protection, though classes are often used for physical fitness and overall wellness.
Benefits of Kickboxing and Other Martial Arts
Now, with the frequent focus on Americans of all ages needing regular physical activity, there is much to gain from a class that involves martial arts. While less than 5% of American adults get the recommended half hour of physical activity per day, at least 60% of parents report a concern of the time their children spend on electronic devices over exercise. With it being recommended that children from the age of two should begin with an hour of daily physical activity, there is much to be said for the regular schedule that could develop.
So, one way to add physical activity into the regular schedule of children and adults alike includes kickboxing classes and other martial arts. It has been shown over the years, with the millions of Americans involved in martial arts, that there are several physical benefits to be gained. One reported by older adults is that over half of those who take part in things like jiu jitsu class, Muay Thai kickboxing class, and other martial arts have gained increased self-confidence and improved balance.
Additional Benefits of Kickboxing
It is amazing to consider all martial arts, including kickboxing, as a form of cardio exercise. There may be no reason to master the art or craft of these martial arts, but it can be used by taking a class or using an online or video course to integrate regular physical activity into daily life. It’s easy to think that there is no exercise that would be any fun, but with this being a very mobile and active sport there is much to gain along with the potential of being fun.
So, with the healthful benefits of kickboxing and other martial arts, there is much to gain from attending a class regularly. With exercise helping the heart and the body overall, taking your attention away from electric devices, and improving things like confidence and balance, a great deal can be gain from kickboxing in your free time.
