Teamwork Is One of the Underrated Benefits of Martial Arts Practice
Updated: Apr 26, 2020
A little less than 3.5 million people practice martial arts throughout the United States. Do you want to be part of this group? Have you been making a list of martial arts classes in your area and asking yourself, “What martial art should I learn?”
There are lots of reasons why you might want to practice martial arts or have your kids practice it. For example, teamwork is definitely one of the most underrated benefits of martial arts.
Read on to learn more about how martial arts practice encourages #teamwork, as well as the other benefits it has to offer.
Martial Arts and Teamwork
When people are researching martial arts and wondering, “What martial arts should I learn?” they often pay attention only to the physical benefits. Those are great, of course, but we also shouldn’t overlook that character-building benefits like teamwork.
Learning martial arts can help practitioners to become better team players in the following ways:
Encourages Communication
First, when you practice martial arts, you have to learn how to communicate with your opponent. A big part of martial arts is working with a partner. If you and your partner can’t get on the same page and communicate in an effective way, one of you could end up getting hurt.
Improves Mood
Martial arts are very physical. Any kind of physical activity helps to promote endorphin production, which can help to boost your mood. When you feel more positively, it’s easier for you to work with others, whether it’s in martial arts practice or in everyday life.
Relieves Stress
In addition to improving your mood, martial arts can also help to relieve stress. This, in turn, makes it easier for you to communicate in an effective way and be clear about what you need from others. This will help you to be a better collaborator and strengthen your relationships with teammates, family, and friends.
Promotes Problem-Solving
When you’re practicing martial arts, you have to get good at solving problems. You have to figure out how to get yourself out of tricky situations while still abiding by the rules. This can translate to a better problem-solving approach outside of the studio and can help you approach potential issues in new and creative ways.
Teaches Good Sportsmanship
As with other sports, practicing martial arts can help you learn how to be a good sport. Good sportsmanship will get you far, and it will make it easier for you to be supportive when working with others and encourage them to do their best.
Encourages Self-Improvement
Martial arts also encourage practitioners to focus on self-improvement. When you’re growth-minded and focused on how you can improve your life and the lives of those around you, it’s easier to be part of a team and work together with others to accomplish a common goal.
Other Benefits of Martial Arts
Martial arts have lots of other great benefits to offer, too. It’s not all about working with your sparring partner. Here are some other benefits that come with practicing martial arts on a regular basis:
Improved physical strength
Improved cardiovascular health
Faster weight loss
Increased self-confidence
Improved focus and ability to sit still
Increased discipline
Improved athleticism
Martial arts also teach great morals and values. The lessons learned through martial arts can apply to everyday life and help practitioners become better people in and out of the studio.
Choosing the Right Martial Arts Class
Okay, you’re convinced that martial arts are a good option for you or your kids. You might be wondering who to find the right class, though. There are lots of options to choose from, after all, but they’re definitely not all created equal.
Here are some key factors to consider when looking for a martial arts class in your area:
Know Your Goals
Start by knowing what kind of martial art you want to practice.
Do you want to learn (or want your children to learn) tae kwon do? Jiu-jitsu? #Karate?
There are tons of different types of martial arts, so do your research to decide which one is a good fit. This will help you narrow down your options, too.
Consider Qualifications
When you’ve found a few schools that seem promising, do some additional research to learn about the instructor. What kind of qualifications do they have? What makes them a good fit to teach you or your children?
Observe Classes
It’s always a good idea to observe a class or two before deciding to join one school over another.
Pay attention to what you see during the class. Is there an emphasis on safety and injury-preventing practices like stretching exercises? Do people seem to be learning and having a good time?
Look for Training Aids
Look around the room when observing classes, too, and check to see if there are any training aids present. If there are, are they in good condition? Do they get used on a regular basis?
Talk to Other Students/Parents
Whether you’re looking for classes for yourself or a child, talk to others who have worked with a particular school for a while to see what they have to say. Are they generally happy with the instruction? Do they feel that the classes are a good investment?
Consider the Cost
Finally, consider the cost. Find out how much classes cost each month and assess whether or not that fits into your budget. You may want to see if there are any specials that can help to lower the price, too.
Start Practicing Martial Arts Today
Now that you have a clearer understanding of all the benefits of martial arts, are you more interested in practicing yourself? Are you ready to get your kids signed up for classes?
If so, keep the tips listed above in mind. They’ll help you find the perfect class that provides you (or your children) with the knowledge needed to become a great martial artist.