Martial Arts

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Martial arts group is beneficial for teen mental health. A martial arts group practices physical exercise systems that are associated with the combat arts of eastern Asia. However, the term “martial arts” originally referred to combat systems developed in Europe as early as the 1550s. The term “martial arts” is derived from Latin, meaning “the arts of Mars.” This is a direct reference to the Roman god of war. The typical martial arts group offered today is not about aggression or war. Given the spiritual and physical benefits of the martial arts group, participation is increasing worldwide.

What are Martial Arts?

Martial arts are codified systems of combat. In addition, it’s beyond the traditional focus on self-defense. Instead, in a typical modern martial arts group, the focus is on spiritual and personal development.

Furthermore, practicing martial arts helps preserve cultural heritage. Many types of martial arts are connected to the history of their respective countries of origin. In a martial arts group, this heritage is conveyed as a part of the practice. Additionally, martial arts groups in some cultures are performed in dance-like settings. Furthermore, they incorporate music, especially strong percussive rhythms.

Martial arts help teenagers by joining physical fitness goals with personal growth. Therefore, building physical fitness in martial arts classes also develops resilience, mastery, and interpersonal skills. Consequently, in a therapeutic environment, martial arts classes can promote spiritual well-being. Moreover, martial arts helps young people develop discipline and focus.

Martial arts do not promote aggression. Rather, they can be used as atreatment modality for at-risk youth. In fact, studies show that martial arts classes help reduce aggressive tendencies. Although there are many different types of martial arts classes, the benefits of martial arts practice are similar in most cases. The key is consistent practice.

Sources: Black Belt: World’s Leading Martial Arts Resource, Contemporary Psychotherapy, US National Library of Medicine (National Institutes of Health)