The perspective of people that I’ve met so far in my life over the subject of Martial Arts falls into the following 3 categories:
- Its Kung-Fu! Something the Chinese do in movies. It’s savage. – 75% Agree
- Its a skill you learn to beating up people and pick fights. It’s savage. – 20% Agree
- Its a dignified sport and a way of life. – 5% Agree
Its always been sad to know this, but I feel differently about it, not just because I have been indulging in the sport since 6th grade, but also because I have studied a lot about it, and as always conforming to a rational judgement based on knowledge rather than ignorance.
But you know what, anyone can learn some or the other form of martial art, and truly enjoy the benefits.
What may those benefits be, if I may ask, my dear Watson…
- Freedom from any sort of body aches or pains, largely attributed to a sedentary lifestyle. In short, great health!
- Personality Improvement. By improvement, I don’t mean to say there’s anything wrong with you, I just want to emphasize that a martial artist learns to think with clarity, has sharper reflexes, a sharper perception of events…these are quite useful assets for your personality, aren’t they?
- Total Expression of the self through your body. This is the one that comes on top two levels of the Maselow’s Need Pyramid.
- Being just downright COOL! :D
So, I’d say, even if I didn’t convince you to be a “fan” of martial art, I’d suggest you try learning the easier Martial Arts such as Judo, Taekwondo, Aikido, or maybe even Krav Maga (if you want to be as cool as Jack Bauer in the 24 TV series ;)), and see for yourself, how freakishly cool you’ll become, and FIT!
Go ahead, bash em up!! Dishum dishum!! :D
Related articles
- Getting Fit With Martial Arts (everydayhealth.com)
- Adding Krav Maga to Your Exercise Routine (everydayhealth.com)
- The Path of a Martial Artist (dead-logic.blogspot.com)