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When we think of martial arts, we often think of discipline and self-defense as key benefits we gain from our practice. Beyond those lies a host of benefits for our everyday physical health, some of which may seem obvious and others not-so-much. As we “kick off” a new year, consider this: martial arts training is one of the most comprehensive ways to transform your physical health, whether you’re 4 years old or 84. 

Here are seven research-backed advantages that practicing the martial arts offers:

• Enhancing Motor Skills: Studies indicate that the complex, cross-body movements we practice in martial arts (think about kicks, punches, and forms) significantly improve hand-eye and foot-eye coordination.
• Improving Proprioception: This helps us know where our limbs are in space, improving coordination and reducing general clumsiness.
• Increasing Flexibility: The deep stretching and full-range-of-motion movements in martial arts help keep joints limber and resilient.
• Building Stronger Bones: Because martial arts involve weight-bearing movements and controlled impact (jumping, kicking, and striking), they stimulate bone mineral density that can protect children as they grow and maintain bone density in adults.

• Strengthening Muscles: Unlike lifting weights in a static environment, the martial arts build "functional" strength, where we learn to move our own body weight with power and precision. This can translate to better performance in daily activities or even in other sports. It also helps us maintain muscle mass as we age.
• Improving Cardiovascular Health: We often talk about martial arts being the ultimate HIIT workout. The high-intensity blend of cardio, strength, and explosive movement is a huge benefit for heart health.

• Developing Balance and Preventing Falls: This is one of the most significant benefits of the martial arts to daily living. Many of us who have practiced for a long time have experienced this benefit. You slip on ice, and your body responds without thinking to protect your head and vulnerable joints. By improving balance and core stability, you significantly reduce the risk of falls and significant injury with falls. 

Best of all, the martial arts provides all these amazing benefits through a fun, engaging, and ever-changing workout. What better way to stay motivated to improve, learn, and grow!