Do martial arts actually work? This is a question that has been debated for years, and to be honest, the answer depends on who you ask.
Some people swear by them, citing the physical and mental benefits as proof. Others say that martial arts are nothing more than simple self-defense techniques that can be learned in a fraction of the time.
Which side of the fence do you fall on? In this article, I’ll take a look at the science behind martial arts and see if they really work.
What is martial arts?
Martial arts are a type of physical activity that is focused on training the body and soul to become stronger, faster, and more flexible.
They are often used as a form of self-defense and can be practiced by anyone, regardless of their fitness level or size.
There are many different styles of martial arts, each with its own unique techniques and benefits.
Some of the most popular martial arts include karate, taekwondo, judo, kung Fu, Japanese jiu-jitsu, and BJJ ( Brazilian Jiu Jitsu).
Martial arts can be a great way to improve your fitness level, build strong muscles and bones, and develop discipline and self-confidence.
If you’re interested in learning more about martial arts and finding a school that fits your needs, be sure to check out our ‘MMA gyms world wide‘ section.
Do martial arts actually work?
The honest answer to this is yes, but the effectiveness of martial arts depends on a variety of factors. These factors include the individual practitioner’s age, weight, fitness level, and martial arts training.
That said, many experts believe that martial arts can be very beneficial for physical and mental health, and can even help to improve overall fitness levels.
Martial arts also have been shown to improve coordination and timing, which can be valuable in a variety of professional and occupational settings.
When it comes to using martial arts size, weight, and skills matter. For example, a man wo is 5’7 inches 135 pounds will have difficulty fighting and beating a man who is 6’6 245 pounds.
Regardless of how skilled in martial arts the first man is.
Yes, anything can happen in a fight, but size makes a big difference. This is why in combat sports there are weight divisions.
There is no way that they will sanction a fight between a heavyweight and a lightweight, that would be suicide for the smaller man.
So combat sports and combat competitions such as UFC, Boxing, and NCAA wrestling have weight classes because size does matter.
Martial arts and health and fitness
Your fitness level and skills play another huge roll in effectively defending yourself. If you are constantly eating junk food, consuming marijuana, alcohol, or drugs it can hinder your fitness.
Also if you don’t exercise or eat healthy you’ll lack stamina, strength, and endurance. Without these elements you won’t survive a fight too long.
The final element that can effect the way you use martial arts to defend yourself – is having the proper skills to do so. Your martial arts will not work on an assailant if you have not been training to become better.
To become proficient in martial arts, and use it to protect yourself, you need to be in a facility practicing. Practice as often as your time permits.
Your skill level and proper execution of moves, will determine how well you can protect yourself in a fight.
Do martial arts help in a street fight?
In most cases, martial arts training would be geared towards defending oneself in a situation where one is restrained or incapacitated.
In a street fight, the goal may simply be to injure the assailant as quickly as possible before escaping. So if you were taught martial arts correctly you would know how to defend yourself in a street fight.
Your only objective in a street fight is to protect yourself and escape out of that situation as quickly as possible.
If you are training in martial arts and they haven’t taught you how to defend yourself against some who has a weapon or defend yourself in hostile situations, then you may not be prepared to fight on the streets.
On the streets anything can happen and you have to be adequately prepared for it. Some martial arts centers do teach all aspects of defending yourself in every situation, and some don’t.
This is why I tell people if you are training in martial arts, and find that you are not getting the type of teaching you want, it’s best to leave. Go somewhere that teaches the type of training you want.
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Do martial artists have to register as weapons?
No, martial artists or any other professional fighters do not have to register their hands or feet as weapons. There is no law that states that.
The myth of fighters registering as weapons happened back in the era when kung fu and karate movies were popular. Then was enhances when fighters like Mike Tyson came onto the boxing scene.
It may be cool to think that someone is so dangerous and skilled at fighting, that they have to register their body parts as weapons, but none of it is not true.
Do martial artists lift weights?
Yes, some people who practice martial arts do lift weights. This fits well into their fitness regiment and allows them to pack on some muscle. Lifting weights also helps them increase endurance, strength, and conditioning.
Others opt not to lift any weights, this is because they get a full exercise during their martial arts training. A credible martial arts gym will have you do cardio and other exercises for about 30 – 45 minutes.
This is to get your heart rate up and loosen your body and joints for the actual lesson. Again, martial arts is primarily about fitness, healthy eating, and developing your mind, body, and soul.
Weather you want to lift weights or not, it’s entirely up to you. Keep in mind that It’s not mandatory in order for you to learn martial arts.
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Do martial artists drink alcohol?
For the most part no, martial artists do not drink alcohol. When fighters are gearing up for competition and they’re in serious training mode, they don’t consume alcohol. It will affect their performance.
I know some fighters who drink alcohol on cheat days, or once in a while during social gatherings. There are others who practice martial arts that drink but they do martial arts for leisure, not for anything serious.
Overall if you are training in martial arts to become healthy in body, mind, and spirit you should reduce your alcohol consumption or eliminate it completely.
Reasons why you should reduce or eliminate alcohol
- You’ll be able to focus better
- You’ll be less tired
- You’ll be able to train longer
- You’ll be more fit and healthy
- You’ll sleep better and have more energy
- Reduce your blood pressure
- Rejuvenate your skin
- Helps you save money!
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Are martial arts dangerous?
Martial arts is a great way to get in shape and learn how to defend yourself. There are certain moves that can really harm someone, so it’s primarily taught to black belts, or those on the Dan level.
If these certain moves are done with enough force it can actually kill someone. So in that respect, martial arts moves can be dangerous.
Along with learning with learning martial arts some injuries or mishaps can occur. This is normal and most injuries happen by mistake, or training improperly.
Below are some common things that may occur while training in martial arts.
Injuries – As with any physical activity, martial arts can lead to injuries if you are not properly trained and equipped. Make sure to always wear protective gear and take frequent breaks to avoid over-stressing your body.
Concussions – Concussions are a serious problem in the sports world and martial arts is no exception. If you suffer a concussion, make sure to see a doctor as soon as possible for treatment. Concussions can lead to long-term brain damage, so be careful!
Hip and knee injuries – Martial arts can put a lot of stress on your hips and knees, which can eventually lead to injury. Be sure to always warm-up and stretch before starting any martial arts class, and make sure to regularly check your body for any signs of injury.
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About the author: Jerome Brown is an SEO specialist, researcher, and content marketing writer. He’s also a digital content consultant, and runs his own mentorship program for young up and coming writers.
When he’s not writing or mentoring he’s enjoying his hobbies, which include martial arts training, attending music festivals, watching sports, or, reading a good book. Be sure to follow him on social media.