Martial Arts - Marshall Badman

Martial arts are codified systems and traditions of combat practiced for a number of reasons such as self-defense; military and law enforcement applications; competition; physical, mental, and spiritual development; entertainment; and the preservation of a nation's intangible cultural heritage. By practicing martial arts, you can master your mind and your emotions. That can help you develop greater emotional stability, assertiveness, self-confidence, and lessen aggressive feelings. Increased self-esteem. Just like exercise strengthens your body, challenges strengthen your mind. More than sport, fighting, or self-defense, the martial arts are first and foremost about life. About finding what is at the essence of your own being and expressing that essence. What is this? The martial arts are also about art. "To be a martial artist means to be an artist of life," Bruce Lee once said. Martial Arts taught me how to respect and interact with people, gave me the opportunity to travel to new places, meet people I never otherwise would've met and experienced things I never would have otherwise got to experience. Consistent training not only conditions the mind and body to have strength and stamina to fight back in a violent situation but also helps the body fight disease, stay flexible, strong and active as people age. Martial arts provides stress relief and ways to release pent up energy. More than winning against the opponent, karate involves the synergy of body, mind, and spirit. "Through practicing karate, you can learn many attacking techniques such as punches, kicks, and throwing, as well a blocks and sweeps to protect yourself from opponents.