Benefits of Martial Arts Practice and Training
Martial arts have the power to change lives. We’ve seen the transformation so many times- that’s why we do what we do. Martial arts are so powerful because the traditions, values, and skills you learn help you become a healthy, well-rounded individual. There are many articles out there that describe the countless benefits, so we’ll just briefly talk about those we see the most at USA Seibukan.
Strength, Balance, Coordination, and Athletic Skill: Martial Arts is a physical activity that helps us get stronger and more athletic. There is a lot of moving in martial arts, and the more you move, the healthier you will be. When it comes to children, martial arts are incredibly important for helping them stay active and become more coordinated. That coordination and the confidence that comes from it will encourage them to try other activities and build healthy habits early. (Martial arts also give them a fun reason to put down their electronic devices.)
Ability to Defend Yourself: Being able to defend yourself is one of the most recognized benefits of martial arts. This skill comes through practice and repetition of the techniques, which helps you understand how to apply the methods to a given situation outside of class.
This benefit is often helpful for people with ADD/ADHD or similar challenges too. But, in our fast-paced, technology-driven world, everyone could benefit from the improved cognitive skills martial arts provides.
Self-confidence and Self-esteem: Over the last thirty years of teaching martial arts, we have seen many students come in looking down at the floor not saying a word. But after taking classes for a while, they leave with their head held high, speaking to everyone in their path. This confidence comes from learning new skills and being part of our USA Seibukan family.
Mastery of Self-discipline: The building of self-discipline starts with students wearing their uniforms and bringing their safety equipment to class and quickly builds from there. Students are expected to put away practice equipment, line up quickly, and always follow instructions. Soon, students need no direction, and the responsibility spills over to life outside the dojo. Preparing for belt tests turns into preparing for school exams and remembering to bring sparring equipment turns into always remembering your school backpack.
Respect for Self and Others: In any martial arts school, there is a process for how things are done. For example, classes start and end with a progressive set of bows, and practice with a partner begins and ends by bowing to each other. Students are also expected to respond respectfully when their instructor speaks to them. This etiquette and sense of respect and honor become habit for students and transfers to their daily lives.
Aptitude for Working with Others: Martial arts often uses partner drills which require communicating and working together. Students also help one another practice new skills, and mentoring relationships often form between our older and younger students. While it might seem like martial arts is a solo activity, the training program and its required etiquette give students the opportunity and skills to become strong team players.
If you’re interested in experiencing these benefits for yourself or your child, join us for a free class.