Martial Arts Improve Physical and Mental Health

There are many benefits to martial arts.  Whether you choose American Kenpo, Jui Jitsu, Tae Kwon Do, Wrestling, etc., you’ll receive a physical boost like no other. 

One thing you’ll hear a lot about in martial arts is control.  Aside from the improved cardiovascular health and increase in total strength, you’ll learn coordination and muscle control.  All these things combined will improve your overall health and fitness, but are nothing more than a bonus. 

The true value of martial arts lies within the mental discipline that is taught.  You learn the joys of hard work, you experience the reward of dedication and perseverance and you gain understanding of the value of respect.

I talked with an expert, Notre Dame Prep Student, and 1^st Degree Black Belt in A.K.K.S., Anthony Vogel about his experiences in martial arts.  Here is what he had to say:

"I have been a student in the Martial Arts for 11 years. In my 11 years of studying I have learned much more than just punches, kicks, and various other strikes. Martial arts have taught me the confidence to do things I never thought I could do, like break a 1 inch think piece of wood. The Martial Arts has also taught me the importance self control. In the Martial Arts one learns many different maneuvers that could easily end the life of someone. Because of this knowledge, one must also learn to control one’s self, and to only use their knowledge of deadly maneuvers in life or death situations. Another important thing the Martial Arts have taught me is the importance of the mind. After just a few months of training in the Martial Arts, one learns that the mind is the greatest weapon ever created. With this weapon comes great responsibility, which is another thing I have learned from the Martial Arts. I have also learned how valuable friendship is in the Martial Arts. It is very hard to learn when you don't get along with the people around you. Your friends are the ones who will cheer you on when you reach new heights in your training in the Martial Arts and they are the ones who will give you the support you need to get back up and try again when you have fallen. This is what I have learned in my time spent training in the Martial Arts."

Anthony is also an assistant instructor at Castro’s Martial Arts in Shelby Township, and his focus is in Kenpo Karate. 

My own experiences in martial arts have been sporadic with the exception of wrestling.  I dedicated myself to wrestling after trying it for the first time nine years ago.  Wrestling led to my relentless work ethic. Wrestling taught me the importance of proper nutrition and exercise.  Wrestling even helped me find the wonderful woman who is now my wife, but that’s a story for another day.

No matter what style you choose, I highly recommend pursuing martial arts.  Few other activities will provide you with so many positive benefits in both mental and physical health.

Dan Sabin is a certified personal trainer and boot camp instructor at the of Oakland Township and the Snap Fitness of Clarkston.  Dan also coaches wrestling at Notre Dame Preparatory and Marist Academy in Pontiac, MI.  You canalso check him out on Facebook.