Martial Arts for Beginners - Which is Best For You?

Itching to get into a sport that’s physical but also trains your brain? Martial arts is a great sport to get you fit and instil a sense of discipline and value into your life. However, we understand that as a beginner stepping into a martial arts class, at any age, can be daunting.To make the process a little less intimidating, it’s important to get your head around the different martial art offerings and what one would be best for you. Let’s delve into the classes that are on offer and what to consider when selecting the right form.

How to choose what martial art is best for you 

There are many different forms of martial arts, the similarity being all require a vigorous work ethic and discipline to master.

The key things to consider when joining a martial arts class are:

Your physical capabilities

To train in martial arts being physically fit is a necessity. Luckily physical fitness and flexibility can be improved dramatically through training, so if you aren’t initially fit, prepare to put in the effort when training to change that.

If you have a physical disability you aren’t excluded from practising martial arts. Martial arts such as Judo is practised by those who are blind as Judo doesn’t require sight-based striking. Brazilian jiu-jitsu doesn’t require you to be able to stand and instead has a lot of floor-based grappling moves, making it an available option to those who don’t have the use of their legs.

What you want to achieve

It’s important to determine what your goals are for your martial arts journey. If you are looking for a physical outlet that’s easy going and has no mental effort, then martial arts might not be for you. If you want to make a real change and embed good habits into your lifestyle, whilst also getting fit and having fun, then your martial arts options are fairly endless. 

What age should you start practising martial arts?

Deciding whether you should start practising martial arts shouldn’t be dictated by age.

Children can start martial arts training as young as four years old, in classes that focus on instilling the values of the sport from the get go, such as discipline, respect, integrity, and perseverance.

There is no cap on how old you can be to train in martial arts, and age would only come into play if a person’s body wasn’t able to withstand the training.

What makes one martial art easier to learn than the other?

The ease of learning a martial art can be due to what techniques and training are required of each form. Also, consider what art form you are passionate and interested in as this can be a big initial motivation for beginners.

Some of the easiest martial arts for beginners are:

Krav Maga

Krav Maga is an Israeli martial art self-defence technique, created specifically for the Israeli defence forces.

The best feature for a beginner is that Krav Maga was designed to work with your body’s natural reactions. Used as a defence strategy against an attack, Krav Maga’s techniques are based on your natural reflexes and instinct, making it quick to learn as you already have the instinctual basics.

Karate

Originating from Japan, Karate is a fast and well-known martial art form.

With clear structured training routines, Karate uses striking techniques and emphasises the importance of discipline and form. This makes it easier for beginners to learn, as there is a lot of repetition in the training routines to master the skills.

Taekwondo

Taekwondo is a Korean martial art, known for its impressive fast and high kicks. 

Best for beginners who require motivation and a clear goal to push them, Taekwondo has a belt system in place to motivate students to the next stage. It is also great for those who want to prioritise improving their flexibility and strength.

Judo

Devised in Japan, Judo’s techniques lie in grappling and throws.

Best suited to beginners who are wanting to learn how to use their opponent's force against them, and want to get up close and personal with their opponent with grappling, opposed to calculated striking.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)

Originating in Japan from JJJ but developed in Brazil, BJJ primarily focuses on submission holds and ground grappling.

Beginners of all body types will thrive when studying Brazilian Jiu – Jitsu as it prioritises mastering technique over strength.

Learn Martial Arts at UMF Academy

No matter your age or ability, UMF Academy is the place to begin your martial arts training journey. UMF delivers industry-leading character development systems in their classes and focuses on instilling core values through all of their training programmes. Inspiring an atmosphere to encourage self-confidence and discipline in every pupil, training martial arts at UMF in Townsville is a fun and rewarding experience, for all ages.