Conventional wisdom in American culture tells us that taking karate lessons is good for you -- and not just because of childhood associations with Mr. Miyagi from the "Karate Kid" films. Different karate programs will stress different aspects of training and therefore grant some benefits more than others. Most programs, however, will help develop the same positive traits to one degree or another.
Physical Fitness
Training in karate is rigorous. A typical training session includes calisthenics, vigorous practice, stretching practice, breathing practice and cardiovascular conditioning. If you participate in regular karate classes and engage in the training exercises with intent, you can't help but get into better shape.
Self-Defense
Karate is a fighting art, meaning that people who practice karate can get better at fighting. This translates to being able to protect yourself and your loved ones if you come under attack. It also translates to safety outside of a crime situation, as increased awareness and reflexes can help you avoid potential accidents.
Patience and Discipline
The culture of karate training is steeped in tradition, respect and a teacher-student relationship with a sensei. These traditions build habits of holding your temper, delaying gratification and doing hard things when hard things must be done. This patience and discipline can help you succeed in projects off the mat.
Confidence
The longer you study karate, the better you get at it. The belt promotion system within karate culture is a visible sign of that improvement, and students who commit to training move through it at a steady pace. Trying difficult tasks and succeeding is part of building confidence and an integral part of learning karate.
Peace
Perhaps ironically, peacefulness is a benefit of training in a fighting art like karate. According to martial arts teacher Tom Callos, this comes from the confidence that stems from proficiency. According to Callos, people want to fight because they are afraid. Those who know karate well are no longer afraid and thus have no need to fight.
References
- "Zen in the Martial Arts"; Joe Hyams; 1987
- Tom Callos; Martial Arts Industry Consultant; Hilo, HI
- "Living the Martial Way'; Forrest Morgan; 1996
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