3 Martial Arts-Style Workouts We're Eager to Try
By Jenny Everett, SELF magazine
When women talk about which workouts are most effective, the conversation generally turns to strength, running, yoga, or Pilates. We clearly understand and appreciate exercise regimens that have tangible, proven benefits (i.e. Burn calories + build muscle = less jiggly in bikini).
Related: Eat these superfoods for flat abs
But a new study in this month's issue of the American Journal of Health Promotion has us super curious about a less common form of exercise in the U.S: Qigong, a meditative form of Chinese martial arts that is focused on moving "Qi" (a.k.a. your life energy) throughout your body. Researchers ahttp://www.self.com/fitness/worknalyzed 77 Qigong studies from 1993 to 2007 and found that it provides major bennies from heart health to your immune system to balance to bone health to mental health.
Here are two more martial arts-style workouts we're eager to try (We dare you to beat us to it!):
Krav Maga
What is it: A hand-to-hand combat technique originally used by Israeli Defense Forces. Since 1980, it's gained popularity in the U.S., and now law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, train their members in this fighting style
Why you should try it: Great core workout, and you'll pick up life-saving self defense skills. Oh, and J-Lo has credited Krav Maga with shaping her coveted derriere.
Try this now: SELF's Krav Maga and Capoeira-inspired moves
Capoeira
What is it: A Brazilian art form created by Africa slaves centuries ago. It combines martial arts, gymnastics (one-armed handstands, anyone?) and dance, and is set to awesomely fun tribal-ish music.
Why you should try it: It's no coincidence that Brazilian girls are known for their perky, gorgeous backsides! Grab a medicine ball and try these moves (The Balanca is our fave) and you'll be beach-thong-ready. OK, we're not going there either, but a girl can dream...
What's on your must-try workout list?
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Photo Credit: Amazon
