No matter your weight, gender, or age, there is at least one type of martial arts that can keep you fit. You don’t necessarily have to be a professional competitor to get fit; taking up martial arts as a hobby provides adequate fitness.
A few hours each week is often enough to start seeing results. Not only is it great for physical fitness, but martial arts is also a form of self-defense, and you can partake competitively.
Some champions such as Gordon Ryan have even found some level of fame through combat sports. Gordon Ryan, age 26, holds numerous titles and is pretty inspirational, especially for those who have a particular interest in martial arts.
That said, if you’re interested in martial arts to stay fit, we’ve listed some combat sporting options for you to consider.
Taekwondo
Originating from Korea, taekwondo mainly focuses on kicking, and with enough practice, you will be able to do a spinning kick and break boards for fun. Because you kick more than punch, you will be able to strengthen your core substantially.
Karate
Karate is definitely for you if you want an overall body and mind workout. Karate teaches you to use almost every part of your body as a weapon.
This is perfect for maintaining joint health and physical fitness, and it’s also rewarding to work your way up in rank.
Wing Chun
Probably one of the best arts to learn for a beginner. Learning this style does not require one to be very strong.
But at the same time, learning this can make you burn calories almost as fast as any other martial arts. Due to the fast hand movements but less vigorous techniques, you will have a less intense workout, but still get quite fit.
Tai Chi
Although there are arguments that tai chi is not a martial art, it predates many of the styles and is, in fact, a martial art. However, you may not get to break boards and work up a sweat doing this.
Due to the techniques being more meditative, you may find that it will take a little longer to get fit, but doing this will teach you fantastic breathing techniques, and you will definitely strengthen your mind. Therefore, taking up this form of martial arts can help you manage stress and anxiety during the pandemic. Tai Chi is very popular among the elderly and can provide physical fitness when training an average of forty-five minutes a day.
Judo
Thanks to the gripping, throwing, and pulling, you will get super fit pretty fast. Judo is probably one of the most demanding combat sports around.
Because you may have to train to throw someone larger than you, the training will involve vigorous core strength; you’ll build up a sweat from day one. Almost like karate, you will get a full-body workout and more.
Martial arts is an excellent way to get fit while having fun. If you don’t really enjoy spending time at the gym, one of the combat sports above might be a better option. In addition, you can also consider things like boxing, swimming, and even tennis to get fit if the gym isn’t a suitable option for you for any reason.
