Do you need to get in shape but you hate the idea of going to the gym several days a week to lift weights or participate in aerobics classes? Do you want to be stronger while also being more flexible and agile so that you can protect yourself and your loved ones against attackers? You should consider signing up for a martial arts class. With so many different forms of martial arts, you can choose the one that appeals to you, and certain schools are perfect for getting in shape fast.

Taekwondo

For those who want to build up their speed in addition to their muscular strength, Taekwondo is the best form of martial arts. You’ll learn how to deliver hard punches and kicks, so there’s emphasis on building up your balance. Once you begin to develop better balance and more strength behind movements, you’ll notice that your coordination dramatically improves as well. Don’t be surprised if you see a heavy bag hanging from your Taekwondo facility’s ceiling either, as you’ll be using it quite a bit to build up your muscles.

Judo

Because there’s significant focus on grappling in judo, you’ll need to strengthen both your upper and lower body in order to win a fight. This form of martial arts was created by Jigoro Kano in 1882. Although judo is quite similar to Taekwondo, the major difference between the two schools is the length of their matches. Because judo matches are much longer, the classes focus on building your strength as well as your endurance.

Muay Thai

Muay Thai Championship Boxing

Another popular form of martial arts is muay thai, which is actually an ancient practice known for using every part of the body, including the elbows, knees, fists, feet and shins, to deliver hard blows that knock an opponent down quickly. If you want to transform your body, these aerobic kickboxing classes will get you moving so that you can improve your endurance, strength, balance, coordination, and even your concentration.

Kung Fu

The 1971 movie Fists of Fury featured martial artist Bruce Lee, who made a name for himself with his kung fu skills. Today, kung fu is one of the most popular forms of martial arts, especially if you want to get in shape quickly. In fact, it’s the martial art of choice if you’re hoping to condition your entire cardiovascular system, as it uses a combination of quick movements, jumps and kicks to overcome an opponent. You’ll constantly be moving during a class, meaning you’ll be burning plenty of calories as you get your heart rate pumping.

Capoeira

One of the most interesting and fun-to-watch forms of martial arts is capoeira, which is a Brazilian style that requires coordination, balance and athleticism. Using a combination of sweeping leg movements, kicking and punching, these fighters certainly have a style all their own. Although capoeira classes may be hard to find, if you can find a class, you are sure to love the experience.  Many students travel to Brazil purely to enrol in a class.

Layla Bloor is a freelance writer who has had an interest in physical fitness and martial arts. For muay thai classes that’ll help you build up strength and stamina, she highly recommends Northwest Fighting Arts kickboxing.

Photo Credits: Wikipedia
Video Credits: YouTube

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