Printer-Friendly Logo

Recipe Search

Enter ingredients or recipe title:

Or



More Recipe Search Options

Martial Arts

Exercise Description:

The term "martial arts" includes a variety of different disciplines that include, but are not limited to:
  • Kung fu 
  • Fencing 
  • Aikido 
  • Tae kwon do 
  • Judo 
  • Karate

Health benefits derived from martial arts are not limited to the physical realm. They also include enhancing your spiritual and mental well being, making it a holistic approach to good health. Physical benefits include muscular strength, flexibility, coordination and agility. Increased body awareness, discipline, and an enhanced ability to meditate and focus are just some of the psychological benefits derived from martial arts. Not only will these benefits guide you to improving your martial art performance, they can also help you cope with everyday stress in your life.

Don't know which martial art to choose? The best way to find out is to research the various disciplines, see which one fits your own goals based on your physical attributes, as well as philosophical or spiritual needs and interests.

What Muscles You Work:

Most of the martial arts enhance muscular endurance and strength through the use of all major muscle groups.

How Not To Get Hurt:

Practice, practice and more practice is the key to avoiding injury. Following the guidance of a qualified and experienced instructor via one-on-one or group training. Do not try martial arts on your own. It takes years, if not a lifetime, to properly train your body for the intense demands martial arts requires. As always, don't forget the importance of warming up, stretching and a cool-down.

Essential Equipment:

  • Depending on which form of martial arts you choose, clothing and equipment requirements vary. Unless told otherwise by your instructor, most beginners can start with loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. 
  • Some martial arts require you to be barefoot. In others, special shoes or headgear may be required. Check with your instructor. 
  • Drink plenty of water, water, and more water.