To call your self-esteem low would be an understatement. Having gone through most of your life feeling fundamentally inferior, you’re constantly on the hunt for ways to give your confidence a much-needed shot in the arm. As it turns out, practicing martial arts is a highly effective way to boost your confidence and improve your self-image. If you’re not quite sold on the idea of taking up a martial art, consider the following perks.

Physical Fitness

If your physical appearance is a frequent source of anxiety, getting into shape can do wonders for your self-image. When looking for ways to improve your physical fitness, few are as all-encompassing as martial arts. Since martial arts require you to do a substantial amount of stretching, nearly every part of your body gets a vigorous workout. Additionally, all the pushups, sit-ups and muscle crunches you’ll perform will help tone your muscles and give you a sturdier frame. Looking good is a large part of feeling good, and martial arts can help in this endeavor.

In order to get the most out of your martial arts experience, you’ll need to find a highly-rated dojo. Budding martial artists on the hunt for a great dojo in Portland, OR should contact Northwest Fighting Arts (NWFA). Offering lessons in a wide range of disciplines, NWFA is the Rose City’s foremost authority on martial arts.

More Energy

Inactivity can have disastrous effects on both your physical health and emotional wellbeing. Leading a perpetually inactive lifestyle is synonymous with poor self-esteem and low energy. The more exercise you get, the more endorphins your brain releases. The more endorphins your brain releases, the more confident you are. In other words, moving your body on consistent basis can dramatically improve your general outlook. Additionally, as your body grows increasingly accustomed to regular exercise, your energy levels will gradually rise. If you constantly feel tired or fatigued, an invigorating martial arts regimen has the power to perk you right up.

Self-Satisfaction

Mastering a martial art isn’t something that happens overnight. In fact, it takes months, or even years, to become proficient in certain martial arts. However, the satisfaction you’ll feel every time you perfect a new move or move up a belt class is indescribable. Whenever your sensei acknowledges your progression or advances you to the next level, you’ll know that you’ve truly earned the honor through your own efforts.

Heightened Reflexes

No matter which martial art you ultimately choose to practice, you can expect to develop heightened reflexes, increased balance and above-average coordination. Many of the moves you’ll learn serve to increase concentration, flexibility and agility. As an added bonus, this leads to quicker thinking, which can have a direct effect on judgment, perception and decision making.

Millions of Americans struggle with low self-esteem and are plagued by confidence issues. Dedicating yourself to a martial art can go a long way in improving your outlook and promoting self-acceptance. Throughout your martial arts journey, you’ll learn a fascinating range of skills and come to see yourself in a positive new light.