As any martial artist will tell you, there are multiple benefits in martial arts training. Of course, the most obvious benefit is knowledge of self-defence, which is one of the major reasons why these ‘fighting’ systems were developed in the first place. Knowing how to defend oneself in a potentially dangerous situation is an asset in today’s world - just as it was hundreds of years ago. Unlike often portrayed in the movies, training is not just about fighting. Many people take up martial arts for the fitness benefits as well. Training in karate, tae kwon do, kung fu, silat and other styles will improve one’s cardiovascular fitness as well as tone the muscular system. Strength will increase from the calisthenics usually employed within training but perhaps not to the same extent as working out with weights. But overall power of one’s body will definitely increase since the techniques teach you how to use strength effectively.
Most people will also improve their flexibility significantly while training engages all major muscle groups in entire ranges of motion. This is especially true with styles such as tae kwon do, Thai kickboxing as well as some schools of karate and kung fu where high kicks are used. All martial art styles will result in an improvement of one’s coordination and balance.Unlike many other forms of physical activity, martial arts also have mental and sometimes spiritual elements, which not only improve the mind’s focus but also help in self-control. Emotions such as anger and fear are better controlled through training. Many martial artists can find an inner peace through their training. In today’s hectic world, these particular benefits translate into one of the most effective stress management tools available. Any form of martial art can teach you a mind-body connection that may benefit other areas in your life. Many people choose to do martial arts to help them control depression, anxiety or stress. Sessions may leave you refreshed, energized and ready to tackle anything in your way!
Training in martial arts usually involves many little steps and progressions. As one advances, the feeling of accomplishment comes with added confidence. This is especially beneficial for children who struggle with confidence issues. An increase in self- awareness for kids (as well as adults) will have a cross over effect in other areas of life such as in other sports and general self-esteem. Other challenges in life, both physical and mental, will be met with much less fear. An important benefit of martial arts training for parents to note is that children will generally become more disciplined from the unique formalities of martial arts classes. This is one benefit that is often lacking in other sports. Former ‘problem’ kids with bad attitudes could become more behaved and respectful as a result of taking classes a few times per week. Respect is something that all instructors place great importance in during their classes. Martial arts kids are often very well balanced children if they are consistent in their practises.
Martial Arts Practises available in Bali
Capoeira - Is a fun and exciting Brazilian art form and self-defence; with strong aerobic and dance elements. It is a mixture of body and soul, fighting and dancing requiring the use of mental, physical and emotional agility. It is a harmony of forces that gives you power, flexibility, endurance and self-discovery. Participants form a circle and 2 people at a time exhibit their skills in eluding and striking their opponent. The blows are not landed. What results is a highly aerobic, and fun mock fight with some very impressive moves.
Karate: This type of martial art is based on unarmed self-defence involving focused or directed punches and kicks that are given with the hands and legs from particular positions, along with special types of shouts and breathing. Apart from being a type of combat, the emphasis is on high moral purpose, positive thinking, and self-discipline. Technique, strength, and speed are the hallmarks of expertise in karate. Some of the other requisites are an acute sense of timing along with surprise, and constant alertness.
Taekwondo: This has its origins in Korea, and is characterized by dramatic spinning and flying kicks. The name has been derived from three Korean words: tae, which means kick or foot, kwon, which means punch or fist, and do, which means, way of life, or art. Hence, in literal terms it means ‘the art of fighting with hand and foot’. The practitioners of taekwondo practice their martial art by following combative moves in a choreographed sequence, controlled sparring between two people, and breaking boards and other material.
Jujitsu: This is a Japanese martial art using techniques of throwing, choking holds, kneeing, kicking, as well as using various weapons. The name has been derived from the Japanese words Ju, which means soft or gentle, indicative of submitting to the energy created by the attack of the opponent, and jitsu, which means art, referring to using that energy against the opponent.
Judo: In Judo two opponents use balance, leverage, and movement to try and gain control over each other. The name is a Japanese word meaning ‘gentle way’, and like jujitsu, it involves first yielding to the attack of the opponent and then using the energy of the opponent to gain control. A practitioner of Judo uses these techniques in various combinations and moves to apply holds which help in confining the movement of the opponent, or attempting to throw and pin the opponent on the mat, causing him/her to submit.
Silat: Silat refers to a collection of martial arts from Southeast Asia brought to the Indo-Malay region. Silat was developed where tribal warfare and hunting were common activities. Indonesia has its own form called Presaidiri and Pencak Silat. Silat practitioners learned and adapted the arts the Chinese brought with them to Indonesia. Consequently, Silat includes its own version of Kung Fu, Tai Chi, and other martial arts forms- therefore making it a very diverse and complete form of martial arts practise.
