Mixed Martial Arts or MMA has been garnering a lot of attention in the media. Mainstream movies and televised tournaments have been bolstering the popularity of this high contact, combat sport. Unlike Karate or Tae Kwon Do, MMA combines a variety of martial arts and fighting tactics including boxing, Brazilian Ju Jitsu, Muay Thai, Karate, etc. While MMA does include some aspects of Karate, practicing MMA does not in any way make you an expert in Karate. In fact, there are several reasons why Karate is superior to MMA. Here are just a few of them:
Self-control & self-discipline
Unlike MMA, Karate strongly emphasizes and teaches self-control and self-discipline. Karate students are expected to resolve conflicts peacefully, defend themselves against outright attacks and never be the aggressor in a physical confrontation.
Less risk of injury
Dissimilar to MMA, Karate does not endorse full body contact with an opponent. Although Karate blows, kicks and strikes can be pretty lethal, Karate practitioners are less susceptible to physical injuries or head traumas—such as concussions.
Deep breathing & meditation
Karate also endorses deep breathing and meditation as way to enhance mental focus and relax the body whereas MMA does not. Karate students are taught to exhale during punches, kicks and blocks. They also meditate before and after class. This helps centre the body, the mind and allows self-reflection for the student.
In the end, any form of exercise can be beneficial for the body as well as the mind. However, it’s important to find the right type of exercise that suits a person’s lifestyle and principles.
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