What Are The Benefits Of Learning A Martial Art?

Any martial art, whether it be karate, boxing or fencing, essentially combative sports and arts are of great benefit to the individual.  There are several ways in which they can be beneficial.  

Firstly, they teach a sense of self mastery through self discipline that makes one a better person, the toughest test of any is that of self mastery, we let ourselves off the hook only too easily.  Patience, self discipline, self control, perseverance and other personal skills can be built through martial arts practice.

Secondly, it is a marvelous way to keep fit, from kickboxing to aikido, there is sufficient activity to condition your body.  Any corporeal (bodily) training will help posture, general fitness, and health.

Thirdly, and most obviously, there is the self defense aspect, the ability to stand up when needed and take down the opponent threatening you and yours.  It is not just about fighting, but about defending self and loved ones with skilled blows, strikes etc, that incapacitate without leaving lasting damage, this is the only way to ensure that self defence does not become a criminal offense.

To be able to walk to the 7-11 and back without getting hurt! The primary benefit is self-protection. Secondary benefits are all health related also. Staying alive and keeping from avoidable physical injury is what people sign up for no matter what they may say. Their ego will prevent most  form telling the true of the matter, but if it was only for health and fitness...join a gym! Stay alive and physically safe.... Join a traditional karate school. (Traditional: As taught by the old masters of Okinawa to stay alive and well and protect their loved ones.