No doubt you’ve seen karate in the movies or on the telly, but you probably never thought about doing it for exercise. Actually, karate is a serious discipline that can give you a challenging cardio workout and improve your strength and flexibility.

cardio
flexibility
strength
weight loss
injury potential
schedule flexibility
ratings key and credits

the workout
This martial arts form of fighting features blocks, throws, punches, strikes and kicks. Karate offers total-body physical training and sharpens mental focus.

upside
This sport is the ultimate preparation for self-defense. Besides working on traditional aspects of fitness such as strength and flexibility, it improves your reflexes, agility, balance and overall coordination. You’ll also pick up a Japanese phrase or two.

downside
Karate skills take years to fine-tune, so if you want a workout that’s easy to master, you may want to choose another activity.

the pros say

• Although its origin is obscure, an Indian priest gets credit for karate’s creation in 525 AD
• Consider karate for your kids if they’re eight years or older. It’s a positive way for them to direct their excess energy.
• A karate club is called a dojo. Karate style differs from dojo to dojo, so you may want to shop around to find the type that best suits you.

requirements
Gear: a ‘gi,’ which is the special martial arts uniform that allows freedom of movement.
Instruction/Facilities: martial arts ‘dojo’ or karate studio. Some gyms offer karate or karate-style aerobics classes. Instruction from a karate master is a must.
Time: 45- to 90-minutes.