Did you know that Aikido besides of being a martial art is a combination of strength training and cardio workouts?
The benefits are: getting in shape and creating a physiological balance.
It is important to note that the self discovery of those benefits doesn't happen overnight, it takes time and regular training. You just have to say:"I want to do it."
Getting in shape:
Constant movements during the class helps to engage all the muscles in your body. It helps with proper posture and therefore it helps to reduce organs pressure.
During the exercises, without thinking about it, the lungs are getting a workout: inhale and exhale.
Movements and the recruitment of muscles help with the circulation. During light exercises, the heart pumps a little faster.
Would I experience soreness at the beginning?
It is recommended to start slow and you should only do what you can do and then build up from it. Yes, you will be sore even with light exercises. It is important to continue because exercises help to flush lactic acid from the muscles. After a short time, the soreness will start to decrease. As the soreness starts to decrease, you can increase the activities.
Everyone always focuses on physical strength and looks. Well, it is also important to focus on your mind too. A healthy mind will help you to be more present during your daily activities: work, schools...
Creating a physiological balance:
Our body is made of tiny messengers that circulate all the time to provide information to our organs, muscles, nerves and skins. The science of exercise tells us:
Dopamine. Studies have proven exercise increases dopamine levels in the brain, which decreases stress and even depression. This chemical causes the famous “runners-high” because it enhances those “feel-good” transmitters. Increased dopamine also helps remove that “edgy” feeling stress creates, adds Petty, an exercise physiologist.
Serotonin. Millions of Americans suffer from insomnia and sleep apnea, and turn to sleep aids for help. Instead, Petty recommends a healthy dose of exercise. Physical activity releases serotonin, which promotes a good night’s rest. Boosting serotonin levels can also positively impact mood, social behavior, appetite, digestion, memory and sexual function.
Testosterone. A man’s muscle mass, strength, sex drive, and sperm count are directly linked to his testosterone levels. As a man ages, testosterone naturally decreases. However, Petty says engaging in regular physical activity can help boost testosterone, which can slow the natural effects of aging.
Estrogen. The symptoms of menopause are in part driven by the imbalance and decline of estrogen. One way to combat this is to exercise. Getting your heart rate up for at least a half hour every day helps boost estrogen levels, which can help take the edge off of menopause symptoms. (Reference: Piedmont.org)
Aikido promotes a healthy body. It is a journey and the main goal is to guide you towards a healthier lifestyle and help you to find balance in life. The only thing you need to say is that you want it.
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