I reproduce here a text I wrote in July 2016, originally for the Tanaka Karate-Do Association website (although many people copied it later without authorization). Talking about the benefits of Karate is always very important, as this is an art for preserving life above anything else!
Those who practice Karate only have benefits. The philosophy of this martial art is geared towards personal development and the cultivation of a healthy life. It’s not about violence, but about finding balance. And best of all, Karate is recommended for everyone, from adults to children, men and women! Know some of the benefits of Karate:
1) It is an exercise that works the entire body, helps with weight loss and increases endurance.
Karate is aerobic activity, which requires movement of the whole body, from head to toe. Anyone who wants to take care of their physical shape will find this practice an excellent option. In training, you work and strengthen upper and lower limbs, gaining muscle definition and improving your physical preparation.
2) Develops cardiovascular capacity and respiratory capacity.
The heart is a muscle and, as such, it needs to be exercised to maintain its full functioning, preventing problems. The practice of Karate guarantees this, as it provides the efficient pumping of blood and the transport of oxygen throughout the body. There is also the development of the respiratory part, since it is a very important point of Karate training, including exercises aimed at correct breathing. All this helps the practitioner to have more energy and disposition, because the body works better.
3) Increases motor coordination and reflexes.
The constant training of Karate aims to execute the movements efficiently and accurately. Each kata training leads to an improvement in coordination, to the point where you can even do them blindfolded. In addition, of course, there is training with partners to improve reflexes and the proper application of what has been learned, according to the situation.
4) Improves concentration.
In addition to movement, Karate is observation and reasoning. It is necessary to be attentive to details during training, such as guidelines, examples from instructors and the actual execution of techniques and stances. It takes the ability to think and interpret what is being learned. Therefore, Karate is an exercise in focus and concentration.
5) Helps correct posture.
An important part of Karate training is to move correctly, with a firm and upright posture, without crouching, bent over or performing the techniques in any way. Over time, as you improve in the dojo, the improvement in the way you carry yourself becomes visible.
6) Helps improve self-esteem and emotional control.
At the beginning of all training sessions, a meditation is carried out in preparation for what will be practiced, leaving out of the dojo all matters that are not pertinent. This, in addition to the training itself, helps to relax, vent problems and gain peace of mind. Another point is that as you train you learn more about yourself and your potential, consequently adopting a confident and assertive posture to overcome difficulties inside and outside the dojo.
7) It’s self-defense.
When Karate was created by the residents of the island of Okinawa, now part of Japan, it was a matter of life and death. They could not carry weapons and relied only on their ability to survive attacks by bandits and troublemakers. As the techniques were established and transmitted to us today, it is obvious that they fulfilled their objective of preserving the physical integrity of the practitioners. Currently, the threats are different, but knowing how to defend yourself is still fundamental.
8) It has a rich philosophy, based on respect and discipline.
Karate is not a mere sport. It is a way of life, a constant search of the individual to be better for himself and for the community. And these values are taught inside the dojo so that they can be applied outside it as well. You learn the importance of respecting your colleagues and looking for the example of your seniors, to be punctual and dedicated. The philosophy of this martial art has foundations in budo, the modern version of the samurai code, with values such as justice, courage, compassion, courtesy, sincerity, honor and loyalty.
9) Develops interpersonal and leadership skills.
A real dojo ends up being your second home and you deal with different profiles of people. As you become more senior, you are like an older brother with a mission to teach the less experienced. With that, you learn ways to command, to teach by example and also psychology to guide students with different potentials and difficulties.
10) Teaches the importance of persistence to achieve your goals.
There is no easy way to learn Karate. Each training is one more step and the techniques are mastered by repetition. But each evolution, each new kata learned, each challenge overcome brings a feeling of satisfaction, of wanting to go further. Being a karateka is about cultivating the warrior spirit that will help you to win in life.
Interested? Then consider bringing Karate-Do into your life and discover many more benefits. Search for schools near you, do some experimental training and choose the one you most identify with. Invite friends and family. You are very welcome to be part of this community!