So, why do you want to learn a martial art? For many, the main reason the do so is to learn self defense. This is most definitely a helpful benefit to learning the art since it can greatly boost one's self esteem and self confidence. But, are martial arts only about fighting? No, it is most definitely not solely about fighting. When one looks at the history of martial arts, one will discover there are a great many health benefits to be derived from the study of martial arts.
At the core of traditional martial arts is the study of forms (aka katas) and their origins date back to the early days of the Shaolin Temple. When asked about why forms were so important, the most common response people will give is that the forms were intended as a means cataloguing (and even hiding) the techniques that comprise the specific art. This is most definitely a true statement but it is only a partially true statement. Forms were also designed as a means of promoting health and wellness.
One way this was achieved was through the employment of static contractions. That is, the kata is performed in a manner where one uses a great amount of isometric strength and tension while doing the movements. Such a process can be a little difficult and this is understandable. After all, you are adding tension and reverse polarity to the movements. This, in turn, delivers an excellent benefit to the performance of the form. Namely, helps develop lean muscle mass. Such muscle mass has the added benefit of delivering enhanced strength and a faster metabolism. Greater strength reduces the potential for injury when performing common everyday tasks. A faster metabolism reduces the amount of stored fat you possess which can reduce your potential for developing a number of serious adverse health conditions. Yes, there is much more to performing a kata than merely learning the root motions of a martial art.
Those interested in losing a great deal of weight simply need to perform their katas with a great deal of speed and fluidity. Of course, the faster you move the more calories you burn and the learner you get. But, do not lose your precision when performing a kata in this manner since you do not want to lose the connection to the important martial art component of the form. In short, don't develop bad habits due to a sloppy performance.
It is also possible to perform a kata in a slow manner. This has the great benefit of using the kata as a means of stress relief. Also, you will pick up a number of fine points in the kata which will certainly aid in performance development.
Finally, any and all katas can be used as a means of mediation. Which method of performing the kata is best for meditation? Honestly, the answer to that will be based on your own personal preference. Meditation is best performed when you find the right speed for your needs. - 30300
At the core of traditional martial arts is the study of forms (aka katas) and their origins date back to the early days of the Shaolin Temple. When asked about why forms were so important, the most common response people will give is that the forms were intended as a means cataloguing (and even hiding) the techniques that comprise the specific art. This is most definitely a true statement but it is only a partially true statement. Forms were also designed as a means of promoting health and wellness.
One way this was achieved was through the employment of static contractions. That is, the kata is performed in a manner where one uses a great amount of isometric strength and tension while doing the movements. Such a process can be a little difficult and this is understandable. After all, you are adding tension and reverse polarity to the movements. This, in turn, delivers an excellent benefit to the performance of the form. Namely, helps develop lean muscle mass. Such muscle mass has the added benefit of delivering enhanced strength and a faster metabolism. Greater strength reduces the potential for injury when performing common everyday tasks. A faster metabolism reduces the amount of stored fat you possess which can reduce your potential for developing a number of serious adverse health conditions. Yes, there is much more to performing a kata than merely learning the root motions of a martial art.
Those interested in losing a great deal of weight simply need to perform their katas with a great deal of speed and fluidity. Of course, the faster you move the more calories you burn and the learner you get. But, do not lose your precision when performing a kata in this manner since you do not want to lose the connection to the important martial art component of the form. In short, don't develop bad habits due to a sloppy performance.
It is also possible to perform a kata in a slow manner. This has the great benefit of using the kata as a means of stress relief. Also, you will pick up a number of fine points in the kata which will certainly aid in performance development.
Finally, any and all katas can be used as a means of mediation. Which method of performing the kata is best for meditation? Honestly, the answer to that will be based on your own personal preference. Meditation is best performed when you find the right speed for your needs. - 30300
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