It’s no secret that martial arts has countless physical benefits. It keeps you active, gets your heart going, increases endurance, improves strength, and hones agility. The mental benefits are just as numerous, and they can be applied in many other areas of your life. Let’s explore some of the many mental benefits that adults can learn through martial arts, and how they can be applied in the working world:
Leadership
Even if you start out as a complete beginner, martial artists quickly take a leadership role in the dojo. They are always helping out younger students, providing guidance to kids, and assisting fellow students who are a bit slower to pick up new techniques. One of the most important goals of any martial arts program is developing a student into a leader.
There is a sense of pride that comes with being invested in the progress and achievements of others. The leadership that you hone in the dojo can be transferred to the workplace as well. Just as you help out a fellow student memorize a new kata, you can guide your new colleagues through a tricky new project. Too many people wait for others to take charge, show initiative, and take ownership. The leadership you learn in the dojo can be applied in the workplace and help you stand out in all the right ways.
Confidence
Through martial arts, you will develop confidence in your skin, your body, your mind, and your spirit. Through practice and focus you will improve your self-image and overcome fear, timidity, and insecurity. The confidence that you learn through karate is humble and free of ego.
You can carry this humble confidence into the workplace, as well. You know that you work hard and put in the necessary preparation, so you can approach any meeting or presentation with self-assurance. “Each time I get up after I’ve fallen in the dojo, it gives me confidence to try new things outside of it,” says Nicole Stewart, a professional accountant and martial artist. “It makes the rest of life’s challenges easy. I’m not afraid to go after what I want, and stumble while doing it, because I know my karate training will be there to push me through.”
The Values of Martial Arts
At the Academy of Martial Arts, we believe in promoting the Martial Arts Way. The values that matter most in martial arts are the same values that make an impression in the workforce. Strong values like dedication, perseverance, tenacity, loyalty, integrity, respect, and honour are extremely valuable in the eyes of employers.
Through martial arts, you are getting more than an energetic workout. You are suffusing your mind and spirit with honourable character traits that are equally prized in the working world. Contact your nearest AMA location for class schedules and further information about the undeniable value of martial arts training.
