It takes a lot of work to be physically fit. To be fit, you need to hit these five components: muscular endurance, cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, flexibility, and have a lean body mass to fat ratio. People who train in the martial arts are able to hit all these five components.

If attending a yoga class puts you to sleep, learning a new skill like martial arts is a great way to spice up your old, yawn-fest workout routine. Plus, you have a variety of martial arts discipline to choose from.

Karate

You’re probably already familiar with the Japanese martial arts called karate. If you grew up in the 80s and 90s, you may have seen it in action in movies and TV shows.

Karate is a great way to achieve overall fitness as it incorporates a variety of offensive methods including kicks, punches, knee strikes and elbow strikes, as well as some defensive blocking using the arms and the legs. Some contemporary styles of karate integrate grappling techniques such as joint locks and throws. Many athletes in mixed martial arts often use these methods.

In order to have effective kicks and punches, you need to build stamina, strength, and be in good shape.

Karate is a great way to get fit and use all the muscles of your body.

Muay Thai

Muay Thai or Thai boxing originated in Thailand and has been developed and practiced for several hundred years. Workout routines in Muay Thai can be intense and gruelling as it demands the use of your hands, elbows, feet, and knees. Not only that, but strong focus is needed to predict your opponent’s next move. When your opponent sends kicks and hooks your way, you’ve got to stay centred and balanced.

Muay Thai is a great combination of strength, cardio and endurance training that engages practically every muscle in the body. If you want something challenging, then this may be the best sport to try next.

Capoeira

Capoeira is recognized for its rapid and intricate moves, which rely primarily on speed, strength and leverage to perform a broad range of spins, kicks, and extremely mobile techniques. An Afro-Brazilian martial arts discipline, it’s unique as it incorporates culture, acrobatics, dance and music.

Capoeiristas are constantly on their hands, doing handstands, and rolls. This results in a significant increase in upper-body strength. A lot of the routines and poses include the use of core strength, so you have no option but to get your abs in tiptop shape.

Whether it’s Karate, Muay Thai, or Capoeira—go ahead and give it a shot! The most important thing is to get your butt moving to get in shape. Not only will you benefit from being active and fit, you’ll also be able to build mindfulness, self-confidence and maybe learn a new culture and meet a few friends. All that from practicing martial arts—sounds like a good deal!