People who practice the martial arts often extol the benefits of practice
regarding physical health, mental health, and even spiritual well-being.
There are testimonials about increased endurance, greater strength,
enhanced balance, more flexibility, better concentration, more confi-
dence, and increased perseverance. In addition to these anecdotal
reports, scientific studies also show benefits of martial arts practice,
including positive effects on older adults. These positive effects of
practice cut across physical, mental, and social domains. Collectively,
these studies provide evidence why we should continue practicing as
we age, as well as even begin practice later in life.