Introduction
Might seem like a strange topic for an article, and the truth is that you might not know much about it. Well, hopefully we can change that because we’re going to talk about martial arts for seniors. Specifically, we’re going to take a look at different senior martial arts programs and why they might be worth looking into. Whether it’s physical fitness, mental stimulation or reduced social pressure, there are plenty of benefits (we’ll outline them below) to these classes for people over 50. Many seniors are interested in pursuing a traditional martial art like MMA, Kendo, or Taekwondo. If you are looking to get started in the world of martial arts, we’ve created this resource to help.
Paying for martial arts courses can be a significant investment and should not be done lightly. For many seniors, regular exercise is an essential component of their healthcare regimen. Martial Arts For Seniors provides a variety of physically active, healthy activities for older adults to enjoy. When it comes to senior fitness, the benefits go beyond improved mental health. A study released in 2002 by Dr. John O’Neil from Fullerton College found that seniors who practice tai chi have a greater energy level than those who did not attend any classes or exercises as well as a lower risk for cardiovascular disease and cancer at age 60 than those who did not meditate or practice tai chi regularly.
What Are Martial Arts For Seniors?
Martial arts for seniors refers to a variety of physical fitness programs designed for older adults. Martial arts classes are considered low-impact activities. Unlike exercises that require you to run, jump and skip, martial arts classes usually involve slow-paced movements, often with thought given to proper form and technique.
The following are some of the most popular types of martial arts senior exercise:
Kung Fu – A popular style of Chinese martial art developed more than 500 years ago in China. Traditionally, Kung Fu was practiced alongside other related disciplines such as medicine and acupuncture, philosophy and meditation, calligraphy and seal carving, poetry writing and painting.
10 Martial Arts For Seniors
1. Mixed Martial Arts
MMA is the most popular style of fighting for adults due to its exciting and high-energy action scenes with improved safety and health benefits. One can enjoy learning martial arts in their own time without needing to commit a lot of time or money. Other forms of MMA are Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai.
2. Karate
Karate is another highly popular style of martial arts for seniors. One can learn the basics in a short amount of time, which can improve their well-being and help them to become more active.
3. Taekwondo
Taekwondo is an exciting and effective form of martial arts. It’s not as aggressive as other styles and may appeal to those with good balance and coordination who wish to get started in the world of martial arts without becoming overly competitive or self-conscious about their age group while still being able to develop spirit, discipline, and confidence without having to go through years of training.
4. Kendo
Kendo is a sport derived from ancient sword fighting. It’s a traditional Japanese sport that requires skill, agility, and teamwork.
5. Pencak Silat/Escrima
Pencak silat or escrima is another traditional form of martial arts for seniors that might be worth exploring. It’s a highly challenging form of martial arts that was created from Indonesia’s indigenous people, the Philippines. It improves health, fitness, and physical strength while building self-awareness and balance through moderate exercise and concentration without having to go through years of training.
6. Kung-Fu
In this form of martial arts, one learns to defend against attacks from multiple directions. The forms are traditional and flexible but still have high stress levels. Some seniors find that this form of martial arts improves their focus, coordination and strength without requiring extensive training time.
7. Muay Thai
Muay Thai is a kickboxing style developed in Thailand where men and women trained to fight each other using all of their body weight for maximum impact using kicks, knees and elbows. In this style of martial arts, one gains balance, agility and coordination as well as upper body strength without a need for extensive practice periods.
8. Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a form of martial arts that requires slow, deliberate movements which is great for seniors with balance issues. This type of martial arts has been shown to help relieve stress, lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
9. Tae Kwon Do
Tae Kwon Do is a popular style of martial arts that involves a combination of kicking, punching and forms to practice blocks and defensive moves. One can learn from sources such as books, videos or DVDs to learn the basics in a short period of time. Other forms of martial arts are Aikido, Hapkido and Jujitsu.
10. Judo
Judo is a form of martial arts for seniors that involves a lot of throwing, pinning and choking techniques. It’s a great way to get fit, make friends and improve strength, flexibility and coordination. Other styles for seniors are Shorinji Kempo and Lethwei.
Conclusion
Martial arts for seniors is an effective way to get in shape. It’s important to review your options carefully and choose the martial art that will suit you best. Remember that all physical activities should be reviewed by a physician before starting any exercise program and any martial art seen on TV or in books should be looked at with extreme skepticism as these are usually exploitative of people who are looking for simple and time-efficient ways to improve their health.
Martial arts for seniors can help improve strength and balance, improve flexibility and coordination and can be great for relaxation. Most styles are designed for all ages, so seniors won’t find themselves bored or embarrassed by the young participants.
Other benefits include a reduction in the risk of falls, improved mental health and increased self-confidence.
If you want to know more about senior fitness activities try searching for “martial arts programs for seniors” or visit a local park or community center to see if they offer any forms of martial arts classes. These classes may also teach you self-defense methods if you’re concerned about your safety.