Training for the martial arts is no joke. To be even remotely serious, you need to condition yourself mentally and physically, and that means making changes to your lifestyle. It’s not going to be easy, but it’s the only way you’ll be able to achieve your goals in the field.
Here are the top 3 things you can do to prepare yourself for the monumental undertaking of taking up a martial art:
- End your bad habits
You need to be in tip-top shape in every way to prepare for the challenges of martial arts. You can’t be lax with your diet, health and workout habits anymore. You’ll have to quit staying up late at night and waking up late… or not getting enough sleep… or eating and drinking too much!
- Be positive
You’ve already lost if you come into a training session thinking that you’re going to fail. Instead, fill your mind with the thought of succeeding and being productive. Even if you don’t feel the progress immediately, you eventually will if you work hard. And whenever you do see progress, such as getting a technique right, or something related to your fitness like a pound or two lost, make sure to revel in even the smallest victory.
- Always be ready to learn
Come to every session – don’t miss any unless you’ve got a good reason! – with the mindset that you’re going to learn something new today. Even if you’re just practicing, or revisiting past lessons, you should always be attentive and receptive to everything your instructor says.
Start your martial arts training with these tips and you’ll be able to take on any challenge. Are you on the fence about starting your training?