Pull this car over, 2020, and let me out… I’ll walk from here. What a wild year this has been. Most of us hope that better days are very close at hand, but if there’s anything certain, it’s that nothing is certain. In the meantime, we must soldier on like our grandparents and great-grandparents did in the Great Depression, or during World War II when the world must have seemed very bleak indeed.
With the lockdowns we have endured, keeping physically fit and mentally healthy has been a challenge. Fortunately, we are once again (in limited capacity) able to return to healthful routines and exercise. At Black Belt Academy, we are taking all the necessary precautions to provide a safe environment to practice the art of Taekwondo. This creates new challenges, but humans are incredibly adaptable creatures and every day we will find new ways to achieve our goals. The most important goal is to stay healthy and for that, exercise is an especially important component.
Physically strong bodies have healthier immune systems for fighting disease, and can recover faster, sometimes avoiding illness altogether. Exercise also improves mental health. According to medical experts, when you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins. These endorphins interact with the receptors in your brain that reduce your perception of pain. Endorphins also trigger a positive feeling in the body. Exercise stimulates the body’s production of many other neurotransmitters like dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. These natural brain chemicals play an important part in regulating your mood.
Now is an excellent time to begin working on improving your health by starting a regular exercise program. Even if it’s just walking every day for 20-30 minutes, the difference will be felt quickly.
At Black Belt Academy of Prince Frederick, we offer classes for all ages from beginner to Black Belt levels. Martial Arts emphasizes not just physical strength, but mental strength as well. One of the precepts of Taekwondo is “Strong Spirit,” which is something we can all use right now.
Here are three benefits to Taekwondo training:
Physical Health. Martial arts training is especially effective in improving cardiovascular health, physical strength, weight loss, agility, and flexibility. Taekwondo training builds on each previous level to increase ability and skill at a pace that is tailored to the individual. Learning each skill improves physical abilities in a goal oriented and engaging program.
Mental Health. Focus, mindfulness, goal orientation, and patience are also benefits derived from martial arts training. Students are taught to incorporate meditation in their training. Patience is learned by dedication to training and the understanding that improvement takes time.
Self-Esteem. Confidence in one’s abilities, respect for others, and the ability to anticipate and mitigate situations all lead to improved self-esteem. Working with others in class, martial arts students learn to interact in a respectful manner. They also learn situational awareness and how to respond to threats. These skills build confidence and self-esteem.
Whatever physical activity you choose, the most important thing is to find something that suits you, your needs, and your abilities, then get started! You will feel better and be healthier for it. To learn more about Taekwondo, please call or stop by our studio at 285 Merrimac Court in Prince Frederick, MD. Our phone number is 410-414-7530. You can also check out our website: CalvertMartialArts.com
