Martial arts are a good way to boost self-respect. When you start training, you will begin to understand yourself better. This will help you understand and respect others as well. [1] X Research source Martial arts will help you define and overcome your weaknesses. They are challenging and empowering at the same time. [2] X Research source
There are many different types of martial arts. There are hard styles, which focus on force, and soft styles that focus on manipulation of energy. Another benefit of researching martial arts is broadening your knowledge of fighting styles. It’s a good idea to have a working knowledge of other styles if you want to be a martial artist.
If you want to practice a more traditional martial art, look into Kung Fu or Aikido. The traditional arts tend to place a lot of emphasis on the philosophy behind martial arts. [3] X Research source If you have long legs you might consider Taekwondo, which emphasizes kicking. If you’re a bit stockier, look into Jiu-jitsu, a prominent grappling art. [4] X Research source There is no “right” martial art to study. There is only the martial art that is right for you.
If you choose an art such as Capoeira, which is a blend of dancing and fighting, expect to spend a significant amount of time learning complex moves. [5] X Trustworthy Source Princeton University Leading academic institution devoted to expanding and sharing knowledge Go to source Other arts, such as Boxing, or Jeet Kune Do, are built on efficiency of movement and simplicity. Not to mention there are far more resources to learn these arts. [6] X Research source
Invest in a heavy bag if you want to get the most out of training alone. [7] X Research source There are a lot of schools that advertise online martial arts classes. While it’s not the same as going to a school, you may still be able to learn more than if you trained alone.
Pay attention to your footwork as you practice. After every strike or combination, make sure you have a good stance. [8] X Research source Imagine your opponent is standing in front of you. Practice striking, but practice keeping your guard up as well. [9] X Research source
Aim for consistency in your practice. That’s the only way you can maintain the fitness level you need to excel at martial arts. [10] X Expert Source Joseph BautistaSelf Defense Specialist, Martial Arts Instructor, & 1st Aid/CPR Instructor Expert Interview. 9 July 2020. When punching your bag, for example, focus on hitting the same spot every time. Don’t throw wild punches. Slow down and take your time with it. Your goal is accuracy first, then strength. [11] X Research source Push yourself. As you progress in your training, practice longer. If you started out doing 50 kicks, try 100. Don’t overdo it, though. Take care not to hurt yourself when training. Know your limits, and work to overcome them. It is especially easy to fall into bad habits when training alone. Always take the time to reset your stance and examine your actions while training. [12] X Research source Learn new techniques. When you feel comfortable practicing the basics, move on to some more complicated techniques. Don’t forget the stuff you know, however. Build your martial knowledge by practicing everything when you train. [13] X Research source
Your partner does not have to train in the same style as you to be an effective training partner. Try asking your friends that have an interest in learning martial arts to train with you. It may be easier to learn together. If you have any friends that train in a martial art, ask them for some pointers, or see if they’d like to spar one day.
Start at a quarter of the speed you would normally fight. If you want to do it right at full speed, you have to do it slow first. The goal in shadow boxing is accuracy, not speed. [16] X Research source When shadow boxing, be aware of the tempo, or rhythm, of your movements. All the elements of fighting are based on timing. If you find yourself speeding up, relax and try to slow it down. [17] X Research source
If you’re a grappler, find exercises that strengthen your core and your back. [18] X Research source If you’re primarily a striker, find exercises that increase arm strength.
Another good way to boost your heart rate is to do a series of calisthenics exercises without taking a break. Calisthenics are exercises that don’t require weights. Do push-ups, sit-ups, or jumping jacks to start. [20] X Research source Look for more exercises to incorporate into your routine to keep you from getting bored. Try a variety of exercises to target different muscles.
Stretch during your workouts, but also before and after your training sessions. [22] X Research source Leg raises are a good way to improve flexibility in your legs. Lift your leg in front of you, maintaining control the entire way up. Don’t kick your leg up, lift it slowly. Practice leg raises on the side and behind you to cover your full range of motion. [23] X Research source Don’t worry if you can’t stretch to your fullest. Some days you will be more flexible than others. Stretch to the fullest you can on that day. Progress takes time.
Weekly massages are excellent for muscle recovery, especially in older athletes. [25] X Research source Keep in mind that learning a martial art is a lifelong journey. If you have to skip a day don’t worry. It’s better to train responsibly than to not train at all. [26] X Research source
Try to keep your workouts to around 40 minutes to an hour. If they run longer than that, chances are you are wasting precious time. [28] X Research source
The most important part of picking your diet is making sure it is well-balanced. You need a good mixture of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. [30] X Research source Besides the basics, there a lot of vitamins and minerals your body needs to function. Most of these come from a well-balanced diet, but you may need to take some supplements. [31] X Research source
Eating a variety of foods also gives you a wider variety of nutrients. The more you mix up your diet, the healthier you will be.
Try to space your meals out to where you have about 4-4 1/2 hours between each meal. Drink water between meals, and if you must snack, eat a mix of fresh fruits and nuts. [32] X Research source If possible, avoid eating at least three hours before you go to bed. [33] X Research source
Refined sugars and flours are highly processed. Rather than reaching for cakes and rolls, try grabbing a piece of fruit instead. Instead of soda, try fruit or vegetable juice. Drink green tea instead of coffee. If you have a juicer, you can make a variety of healthy drinks by blending fruits and veggies together. Do your best to eat a consistently healthy diet. If you’re working out but you’re eating a lot of processed foods, you might get stronger, but you may not be entirely healthy. [35] X Expert Source Joseph BautistaSelf Defense Specialist, Martial Arts Instructor, & 1st Aid/CPR Instructor Expert Interview. 9 July 2020.
