1. Karate for Cardio
The pace of a karate class guarantees an excellent, fun cardio workout. The more you enjoy a workout, the more likely you'll actually do it. Karate isn't about classmates beating each other up in the ring, although sparring is an option for those who wish to compete. Instead, students spend most of the class time practicing karate techniques in a group with imaginary targets, on a hand-held target or a bag. These exercises get the heart pumping, and the class camaraderie drives you to the next level of speed and endurance. Don't go for the gold immediately--build up to it.
2. Stretching Does a Body Good
Before beginning a karate workout, it's important to stretch out for at least 10 minutes. Stretching before and after a workout helps prevent injuries. The karate instructor may incorporate stretching as part of the class or allow students time to do it on their own. As we age, we lose flexibility. Don't worry that you may not be as nimble as others in the class. This is natural because our bodies are unique. However, you'll begin to notice that your range of motion improves within 90 days if you diligently stretch.
3. Karate Builds Muscle Tone
Repetitive use of muscles builds them up, and repetition is the one constant of karate. Students practice the same kicks and punches repeatedly and muscle tone is the inevitable result. A dedicated martial artist has legs that are sleek and toned like a dancer's because of throwing hundreds of side kicks, front kicks and advanced kicks. Because kicks require the use of the core muscles for balance, karate even tightens the abs without those cursed crunches. Throwing punches taxes the arms, shoulders and upper back. Even your buttocks get a lift from karate.
4. Karate KO's Calories
The one sure way to weight loss is to burn more calories than you take in. A karate class burns a large amount of calories. The amount burned depends on gender, age and weight. The beauty of taking a karate class is that you're burning calories without thinking about it. You're having fun and concentrating on perfecting your moves, so it doesn't seem as much like exercise. Before you know it, you've lost weight.
5. Conjure Up Confidence
As you begin to look better and earn new karate belts, you feel good about what you've accomplished. You also begin to feel more secure about your surroundings because you've learned self-defense techniques. You become more coordinated and confident, and your walk reflects it. By practicing karate katas, students begin to change their posture. Your back will be straighter, shoulders squared and abs engaged.
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