Performance
Martial Arts
Martial arts are a set of combat disciplines and techniques. There are multiple types of martial arts, each of which has its own technique, philosophy and training style. Based on the country of origin, they can be classified into: Chinese martial arts, which include disciplines such as kung fu and tai chi; Japanese martial arts, such as judo, karate and aikido; Korean martial arts (Taekwondo). The term martial art literally means 'Art of Mars' (the Roman god of war) and began to spread in the '60s when many disciplines began to be practiced also in the West.
How Martial Arts Were Born
The first forms of martial arts were born about five thousand years ago in Mesopotamia. From the Middle East they were then brought to India by Alexander the Great's army. The spread continued in China and in the rest of the Asian continent regions. According to tradition, it was a monk Bodhidharma in the Shaolin temple who laid the foundations of an unarmed combat technique, which we know today as Kung-Fu. From the monk's principles, hundreds of different disciplines and combat techniques developed over the years.
Who Is It Suitable For
Martial arts can be practiced by everyone regardless of age, gender, physical abilities or skills. However, it is essential to always keep in mind the state of health and the type of discipline chosen.
Benefits
Physical: Reduction of muscle mass; improved reflexes; increased agility; flexibility; coordination; balance; increased strength Psychological: self-control; confidence with one's body; responsibility in the use of force; decreased stress; increased self-esteem
Contraindications
The main contraindication of martial arts is the risk of various types of injuries during training.
Where to Practice Martial Arts
Martial arts can be practiced in many different places based on the type of discipline: dedicated martial arts schools, gyms and fitness centers but also outdoors.
Equipment Needed
The type of equipment varies based on the martial art chosen.
- • Specific clothing
- • Bags
- • Training poles
- • Mats
- • Weapons (wooden sticks or swords)
- • Gloves and boxing gloves
- • Helmet
- • Protections
- • Shields
- • Boards
