Many young Americans grow up with martial arts as one of their first competitive sports/activities. Not only is it a great activity that keeps participants physically active, but it instills a sense of achievement and ethics, as you work your way up to earning a black belt. Even if you have no previous experience in martial arts, here are eight reasons why it is still a great activity to pick up even as an adult. Martial Arts is not just for kids!

SO Many Benefits

As an adult who started training later in life, I can attest to its benefits!  Among others, it provides….

1. Total Body Workout

Martial Arts can be a high-aerobic workout that uses every muscle group in the body. Your stamina, muscle tone, flexibility and strength will all improve with martial arts.  Cardiovascular health, improved muscle tone and even weight loss can occur!

2. Healthy Lifestyle

The total-body nature of martial arts means hundreds of calories are burned during every class.  Natural eating signals can become better regulated so food cravings can disappear too.

3. Self-Confidence

Due to the goal-setting, positive encouragement and respect that are a part of martial arts programs, the greatest benefit usually reported by students is great self-confidence. You can become more comfortable and confident in all situations – whether in danger or simply doing a task outside of your comfort zone. You will discover you can accomplish anything you set your mind to!

4. Improved Reflexes

Research has found that by participating in martial arts you not only improve your reflexes while in class but actually experience faster reaction times in all areas of your life!

5. Focus and Stillness

As Bruce Lee pointed out, behind the punches and kicks, a true martial artist learns to sit with himself and see where his or her weaknesses exist. As a martial artist, you will learn what it is to be still, challenged and focused.

6. Morals and Values

At Kaju AZ we work to instill the black belt principles of Courage, Honesty, Respect, Integrity, Self-Control and Loyalty into all areas of our lives.

7. Better Mood

Researchers have proven that participating in regular exercise is one of the best ways to improve your mood. Not only will you relieve stress and frustration but it may actually help you become happier!

Kajukenbo Arizona is a positive, encouraging, judgement free school with scalable workouts and flexible training schedules.  Contact us today for a free trial!  We have family, veterans and law enforcement discounts too! Hope to meet you soon!

Aunty Jen


Aunty Jennifer Corder, an Arizona native, is co-owner of Kajukenbo Arizona with her husband Professor Kelly Corder, and sons Sifu Nicolas and Sibak Cameron. She graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in Family Resources and Human Development. She is a black belt in Kajukenbo with over 15 years of martial arts and self-defense training. She and her husband also founded Redrock Software Corporation in 1991 and enjoys working with her family in both businesses.