The benefits of martial arts training are innumerable. Whether you are six years old or sixty years old, a 10th degree black belt or a novice white belt, the physical benefits are widely publicized and accepted; increased cardiovascular fitness, reduced risk of many diseases, weight control, increased flexibility, enhanced functioning of the metabolic, endocrine and immune systems, and many others. But does martial arts training provide us with psychological benefits also?

Many of the physical benefits of martial arts training have carryover psychological effects. For example, by improving your health, martial arts increases your “sense” of well being.

Martial arts students are likely to report reduced tension or stress. The physical nature of martial arts can lower the risk of depression and increase self-esteem! Martial arts training is also an excellent avenue to release aggression in a controlled environment, giving students an increased feeling of power and self-control. Martial arts requires the physical movement of the entire body which helps develop self-awareness and an understanding of one’s own mind.

Probably the biggest psychological benefit of martial arts training stems from fact that it is a form of self-defense. The knowledge that you can physically defend yourself increases self- confidence. Self-confidence is contagious and will spread to all areas of life. This is an empowering mental benefit that enables you to focus challenges that come your way instead of allowing self doubt to rule your life. Another interesting psychological benefit of martial arts training is the social element. Being engaged socially is well documented to be extremely beneficial to both physical and mental well being. Martial arts offers the opportunity meet and interact with others in a positive atmosphere with a common goal.