4 Training Disciplines That Build Muscle and Strength

In addition to boosting your confidence, martial arts are also incredibly good for your physical health. Here is a quick look at four of the most popular martial arts and a few tips that you can use to build muscle while learning one of those disciplines.

Krav Maga

When it comes to intense physical activities, very few disciplines are as strenuous as Krav Maga. In most Krava Maga schools, students will carry out dozens of different exercises in every single class, and those movements will activate all of the major muscle groups. Some of those schools even utilize a form of high-intensity interval training, and that is one of the best ways to burn fat while improving your cardiovascular health.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

There are quite a few reasons why Brazilian jiu-jitsu has exploded in popularity in recent years. In addition to being an effective martial art, this discipline is also an incredible form of exercise. Jiu-jitsu focuses on grappling, and practitioners must continue to strengthen their arms, legs, and core muscles. Many jiu-jitsu gyms also focus on intense cardiovascular training before the rolling sessions even begin, and that is going to strengthen your heart and lungs.

Wing Chun

If you have recently decided to learn a martial art, then you might want to take a look at Wing Chun martial arts schools. This martial art emphasizes simplicity, and many students can pick up the basic movements after just a few classes. While Wing Chun is going to take years to master, there isn’t a steep learning curve at the start. As an added bonus, this discipline is also a great option for those who would like to focus on self-defense.

Muay Thai (Thai Boxing)

In order to be competitive in Muay Thai, a practitioner is going to need an incredible amount of strength in their thighs, calves, biceps, triceps, and shoulders. Muay Thai also requires you to be an excellent cardiovascular shape, and many gyms focus on long periods of steady-state training with short periods of explosive movements. Many Muay Thai schools also incorporate weight training sessions into their workout routines.

Taking martial art classes is going to greatly improve your health, but you should also consider engaging in other types of training activities as well. While many of these disciplines will get you into great shape, supplementing your training with weightlifting sessions and other exercises will ensure that you don’t develop any muscle imbalances.