| By :
Nick Messe
Martial arts have been practiced for hundreds of years across eastern Asia, but only in recent decades have they become more popular in the West. With the globalization of world cultures and the introduction of martial arts in the form of movies and video games into western culture, studying martial arts is hotter than ever. These disciplines, be it taekwondo, karate, or kung fu, can be practiced by people of all ages, from the very young, to the elderly. The success of these fighting arts in transcending age is one of the reasons that studying them is so popular. For adults wishing to practice these disciplines, the benefits of studying them are the same as for children. In fact, martial arts training may benefit adults more than children, as they are able to apply the lessons taught more readily to their everyday lives. One of the biggest benefits of martial arts training is rigorous physical exercise. The older we get, the more important it is to keep active and exercise. Obesity is at an all time high and the rising numbers show no signs of stopping. Chronic illnesses like diabetes and heart disease are often the end result of being overweight. In addition to losing weight, students of martial arts can gain muscle tone, learn good posture and balance, and develop flexibility, all of which can contribute to good health as we age. Another benefit of getting regular exercise is that it can improve mental outlook. Not only will the thought of doing something good for his or her own body make someone feel good, but exercise actually releases neuro-chemicals called endorphins, which can improve mood and energy. Of course another reason to practice these arts is to learn self defense. Single women, particularly, can benefit from knowing basic self defense moves, so that they can be prepared to deal with an attack should it ever happen. Aside from the physical aspects of self defense, there is a mental component. Knowing defensive moves can give a person a sense of confidence, which can manifest in the way they walk and carry themselves in general. Criminals are more likely to strike those people who look weak or lacking of confidence than those who exude it. One of the main tenets of the martial arts is discipline. In martial arts, students progress slowly through a series of programs which require time and patience. A person learns that advancement cannot happen without hard work and perseverance. Many martial arts studios offer classes that are devoted to adults. Some common forms are karate, taekwondo, and kung fu. While they are each a fighting art, there are some distinct differences among the three. Taekwondo originated in Korea. The primary emphasis in taekwondo is on kicking and using the legs while performing moves. Karate was developed on the Japanese island of Okinawa. It shares many moves with taekwondo, but the emphasis is more balanced between the legs and the arms. Also, karate emphasizes using momentum and counter punching when dealing with an opponent. Kung fu, which hails from China, utilizes more circular and graceful motions, which look almost balletic when performed by a master. Martial arts training teaches a person valuable life lessons that can be applied to all aspects of life outside the gym. More than ever, adults can benefit from the lessons and physical activity that the martial arts provide as more and more of these programs are available with adult clientele in mind.
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