Discover Martial Arts Portland Oregon

By Jocelyn Davidson


There are literally hundreds of martial arts systems to choose from. Classes in both Eastern and Western styles abound. Martial Arts Portland Oregon includes classes with a focus on health and fitness, sport and competition, self defense, personal development.

Ranking systems vary among and between the many styles of martial arts. Eastern styles use a colored belt structure to show skill level. Western styles tend to be competitive. Tournaments award Titles. Sometimes a symbolic and decorative belt is presented to the winner.

The benefits are almost too many to list: aerobic fitness, strength, stamina, flexibility, balance, coordination. On the mental side are development of self control, focus, memory, confidence, discipline. Character traits of respect towards others, self control, responsibility, and commitment are highly valued.

Learn how to push through fear and anxiety, how to take a hit and get back up, how to take a fall. Learn proper breathing techniques for exercising, taking a hit or kick, delivering kicks or punches. Many Eastern styles include a series of choreographed routines that must by memorized. Many arts, now practiced as sports, use sparring practice that demands self control, a strike that doesn't actually connect, but is obvious to the judge. Eastern style training usually includes meditation, focus, and breathing exercises.

Kids find Martial Arts exciting. It's a great way to get them moving and training their bodies and minds. Children's classes focus on character traits of respect, self discipline, self control. Many include discussions and demonstrations of ways to handle bullies and strangers. Kids strive to achieve a higher rank, minus the team stress of fumbling the ball or losing the game.

MMA combines Eastern and Western training in an anything that wins goes style. Kung Fu focuses on striking arts but uses fluid, artistic motions easier on the joints to practice. Grappling moves are the focus of Aikido, Judo, Jiu-Jitsu, and Wrestling. Striking styles that have developed into competitive sports include Boxing, Karate, Taekwondo. Judo and Jiu-Jitsu also have a strong focus on competition. For self defense consider Kempo Karate, Hapkido, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Aikido, Muay Thai. Learn how to take a strike, avoid a strike, land a strike (punch or kick).

Eastern styles focus on the mind body connection. If you're too infirm to practice combat style martial arts, take a look at Tai Chi. The focus is on stretching, balance, and fluid movements that are easy on the joints. Health benefits include increased focus, flexibility, coordination. It's a noncompetitive low impact exercise routine that can be modified to meet the physical limitations of the elderly and disabled.

First decide on your goals: fitness, self defense, competition, or personal development. Choose a style that will keep you interested and engaged. Ask teachers or coaches about their qualifications and their training philosophy. Observe a class of long time students. Ask about practice and training requirements to advance and the expected time frame. Ask about programs affiliations and connection with competitions.

Martial Arts Centers often require a contract. Students commit to a training schedule they pay for even if they stop attending. If you know what you want and are committed, these centers can be an excellent choice. If you're not so sure, look for classes offered through city recreation departments, city gyms, school and after school programs.




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