Your Fitness Level and Choosing A Martial Art

Your fitness level and body type will help determine the right martial art for you.

When I use the term fitness here, I mean the overall health of your body, including your heart, lungs, muscles and joints.

Harder styles

Some martial art styles are harder on the body than others.

For example, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu has a lot of ground technniques. Training on the ground can be very hard on the body, especially on the knees, back and shoulders. If you have had a previous injury to these areas, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu may not be appropriate for you.

Styles that demand flexibility

Some styles, such as Taekwondo, have a lot of kicking techniques. Kicking requires considerable flexibility in the hips and legs. If you have always had very poor flexibility, these sort of styles may not be appropriate for you.

Enjoyment and avoiding injuries

Although, most parts of fitness can be improved, your body type, age or past injuries can prevent you from getting it to a level that is adequate for certain martial arts. It is important for you to acknowledge this rather than fight it and risk injuring yourself.

Choosing a style of martial art that it is compatible with your body will ensure that you enjoy training and avoid injuries.

For more information about different styles, please visit my Martial Arts Styles Page.

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