If you’re bored by exercise machines and can’t face another aerobics class, you might consider putting some chops, kicks and flips into your exercise routine. How? Try a martial arts class.

Besides being fun, the benefits of martial arts are tremendous; they include increased self-confidence, energy, strength, stamina and mental capacity. Many forms are no slouch in the calorie and fat-burning department, using as many as 600 calories per one-hour class. Martial artists also report reduced stress levels, fewer physical injuries and illness, and a strengthened immune system.

The term ‘martial art’ encompasses a wide variety of styles, methods and techniques. To find one that matches your health and fitness goals and personal style, read on.

Judo
A mixture of sport, art, workout and self-defence training, judo was created in 1882 and introduced into the Olympics in 1964. Judo, which roughly translated means ‘the gentle way,’ teaches you to ‘give way’ rather than use force to overcome an opponent. Its trademark throwing, control holds, arm locks and choking techniques make it the martial arts form of choice for many martial arts movies. But its emphasis on safety and full-body physical conditioning make it the martial arts favourite for millions of exercisers. For more information, check out the British Judo Association at www.britishjudo.org.uk

Kung Fu
Like many other martial arts disciplines, kung fu originated in China and its name means ‘skill with effort’. It was first made popular by film star Bruce Lee, who was known for his incredible speed, co-ordination and physique. While there are literally hundreds of kung fu variations and sub-styles, all fall roughly into two basic categories: ‘hard and external’ and ‘soft and internal’. Hard styles emphasise strikes and kicks, while soft styles concentrate on staying grounded and balanced. Some use weapons and props. Kung fu is an excellent choice if you want to improve your quickness and agility as well as your self-defence skills. An added bonus: you’ll look really cool wearing the ‘dai,’ the sash-like belt that wraps around your ‘gee’ or uniform. Want to know more? Go to the United Kingdom Wing Chun Kung Fu Association at www.ukwckfa.ndirect.co.uk

Karate
This Japanese form of unarmed self-defence has been around for 1,000 years and is still popular today for all levels of exercisers. It is taught under many different names and involves directed or focused blows of the hands and feet, accompanied by special breathing and shouts. More than a method of combat, karate emphasises discipline, positive attitude and high moral purpose. It’s a great way to get in shape and learn self-defence skills – and if you like you can even pursue it as a competitive sport. For details on clubs and courses in the UK, check out the British Karate Association at www.britishkarateassociation.co.uk

Tai Chi
A Chinese physical art once reserved for the noble mandarins and monastery monks and now performed by millions of people worldwide, tai chi aims to move and control your ‘chi,’ or energy. It’s characterised by slow, flowing movements that look and feel almost as if they’re being practised under water. An entire tai chi form can take as little as seven minutes or as long as an hour to perform. Tai chi revitalises your body and mind; it makes you feel calm and grounded. It reduces stress, improves flexibility and has even been shown in some studies to lower blood pressure and cholesterol. This is an excellent choice for new and older exercisers and those with arthritis and mobility issues. For general information, check out the Tai Chi Union of Great Britain at www.taichiunion.com.

Krav Maga
Krav Maga or ‘contact combat’ is the martial art form for the macho and feisty. It’s the official self-defence system used by the Israeli Defence Forces, Israeli police and numerous US law enforcement agencies. Developed in Israel in 1948, Krav Maga is a combination of self-defence techniques and hand-to-hand combat practises. The idea is to hone your natural instincts and attack your opponent where he or she’s most vulnerable: the groin, eyes, throat and knees. Krav Maga students learn to defend themselves against hostile actions, avoid injury and quickly overcome an assailant. Check it out if you’re serious about self-protection. For information, log onto the International Krav Maga Federation (IKMF) at www.krav-maga.com

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