Martial Arts originates in systems of traditional combat and law enforcement. In the modern world, it takes references to entertainment, spiritual development and preservation of heritage.
We explore a few types of martial arts and see how they can be a part of your fitness and wellness.
Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ)
Born from the art of Judo, Brazilian jiu-jitsu has its origination somewhere in the 1800s. Ground fighting sets BJJ apart from other forms of martial arts. Further variation of positions include guards, side mounts and full mounts. Submission holds can be grouped into two broad categories, namely joint locks and chokes.
BJJ address four key aspects of Aerobics, flexibility, muscular strength and endurance. The resistance encountered while rolling develops a good base to improve your core strength through intense abdominal workout, increasing muscle tone, and reducing body fat while improving balance, bodily coordination, cardiovascular capacity, and muscular endurance
Muay Thai
As its name suggests, the sport has Thai origins. It gained global popularity in the 20th Century as it encompasses mainly a mixture of stand-up striking and clinching techniques. Muay Thai is also known as “The art of eight limbs” that involves a combined use of fists, elbows, knees and shins. The sport is often associated with good physical strength.
The martial arts technique involves diverse maneuvers of punching, using elbows and knees in striking, kicking, foot thrust, clinch and neck wrestling. Muay Thai helps in cardiovascular conditioning, leg and core strength development and increase hip flexibility.
Tai Chi
Tai Chi is a Chinese martial art that literally translates into Supreme Ultimate Boxing (Tai Ji Quan). It is one of the comparatively low impact martial arts.
It differentiates itself by slower movements and milder maneuvers. Tai Chi is broadly divided into three categories.
- In Chen-style, the limbs are extended a large distance from the body, and stances are deep. Chen-style focuses upon the lower body, particularly the knees and hips.
- Wu-style is compact. Hands are kept close to the body, and the stance is high.
- Yang style is one of the oldest and somewhat a balance between the two.
Tai Chi helps improve balance and reduce the risk of fall. It has been found that Tai Chi could be performed by those with chronic medical conditions such as chronic heart diseases and osteoarthritis without worsening shortness of breath and pain. The rhythmic, and meditative body movements are designed to enhance relaxation, inner calm, and peace. Hence the nickname “Meditation in motion”.
Martial arts – An art for life!
Disclaimer
The articles published on www.prime.sg are intended to provide tips for health and lifestyle for individuals aged 40 years and above. The articles are based on secondary research and do not represent the opinion of the author, Spring Publishing Pte Ltd or any mentioned third party. Spring Publishing Pte Ltd recommends professional consultation in medical treatments and will hold no responsibility for medical causes or consequences of the information contained in articles.
