The other night, one of my friends invited me over to watch a UFC match. For those of you not familiar with it, UFC stand for Ultimate Fighting Championship. I wasn’t really sold on the idea of it, but when my friend mentioned that a wide variety of mixed martial arts was at the heart of the competition, my interest was piqued.
It was astounding to hear about all of the different types of training that these athletes went through: tae kwondo, judo, ju-jitsu, muy thai and more! Now, while I have really zero interest in ever becoming a world-class ju-jitsu fighter, I couldn’t help but get excited about the fitness aspect of these martial arts.
With its growing popularity, it’s no surprise that more and more gyms are offering a wide range of martial arts classes and training. I decided to compile a listing of some of the most popular martial arts and have included some of the fitness benefits they can offer.
Karate.
Perhaps one of the most well-known martial arts in the western world, Karate is a traditional discipline of weaponless self-defense. (It literally translates to “The way of the empty hand”.) Originating from China, but later gaining popularity in Japan, there are plenty of fitness benefits to gain from practicing the art. With improved flexibility, coordination and endurance, those learning karate get a full workout utilizing punches, kicks, blocks, sweeps and throws.
Taekwondo.
Originating from Korea, taekwondo is another martial arts designed for self-defense and unarmed combat. The emphasis of this style is on kicking techniques, distinguishing it from other styles such as karate or kung fu. Through the practice of this martial art, you can develop strength, speed, balance and stamina.
Judo.
With a translation meaning “gentle way”, the martial art of judo is a departure from both karate and taekwondo in style. With a focus on grappling and submission, the principle of judo is to use your opponent’s own strength against him. Judo is great for all ages and is a great way to increase your physical fitness. Judo can help boost key leg and arm muscles, improves flexibility and helps to improve the cardiovascular system.
Are you currently trying any of these martial arts? Leave me a comment and let me know what you think of it as a workout!
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