The popularity of combat sports has grown exponentially over the past decade as more individuals are drawn to donning gloves and stepping into rings or mats. From boxing and MMA to Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and Sambo, these modalities offer something for every type of person.
These martial arts disciplines teach practical self-defense techniques and provide an outlet for stress relief, as well as the confidence that comes with learning to protect oneself. They also foster a sense of community, as athletes train and spar together, support each other through challenges, and celebrate successes. The physical exertion of training and competition helps release endorphins, natural mood boosters that aid in stress reduction.
While the benefits of these sports are many, they are also inherently dangerous. Boxing, for example, carries a high risk of injury to the head. Repeated blows to the head can cause concussions or even permanent neurological damage like CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy). Likewise, kickboxing and other striking sports carry the risk of injuries to hands, feet, elbows, and knees.
Despite the risks, researchers have found that children engaged in combat sports demonstrate significantly higher levels of motor competence and muscular fitness than their peers who don’t participate in structured physical activity. However, further targeted research is needed to understand how these martial arts can help children develop in holistic ways.