Everyone knows that exercise is good for your health, but martial arts has been getting a lot of attention lately for all of the physical and mental benefits it provides to its practitioners. Japan Karate-Do Cincinnati is the premier training center for traditional Japanese martial arts in the Cincinnati area, and their expert martial artists know firsthand the benefits of practicing martial arts. 

Here are their top three favorite health benefits that anyone can gain with a little dedication and a couple of classes a week:

• Injury Prevention: Martial arts training involves frequent stretching, and the more you stretch, the more flexible you will become. This might seem insignificant, but lack of flexibility is actually the single largest reason for injury in people of all ages.
• Stress Release: Increasing medical evidence supports the idea that high levels of stress are associated with poor health, inflammation, increased risk of heart attack, stroke, headaches, and even worsening of pre-existing medical conditions. Doing something physical that requires concentration is a great way to relieve stress and feel your best.
• Increased Bone Density: Practicing martial arts with proper technique can strengthen your muscles by utilizing body weight resistance. This will not only give you a leaner and stronger appearance, but it will actually increase your bone density, making it less likely that you will get osteoporosis in your later years.

Learning martial arts can also improve your coordination, help you lose weight, improve your body image, and give you a feeling of accomplishment. For more information on the health benefits of regular karate classes, call Japan Karate-Do Cincinnati at (513) 860-4386.