Martial Arts & Good Health

We are told our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and to glorify God in our bodies (1 Cor 6:19-20). So, we know we must not sin with our bodies or misuse our bodies for pleasure. We must also not worship our bodies through vanity. Of course we also should avoid harming our bodies in drunkenness (Eph 5:18) or other abusive ways which hinder good health. This seems to lead us to want to eat right and exercise. Yes, exercise.

“I praise you, because I am wonderfully made; wonderful are your works! My very self you know.” Psalm 139:14

We are meant to move our bodies and keep healthy physically as well as mentally and spiritually. We shouldn’t neglect that. As someone who had a desk job for about 10 years, and a partial desk job before that, I can attest to how easily one loses the momentum of exercise.

In my early twenties, I started karate. I had done dance as a kid all through high school, so the physical movement felt great. I also met wonderful people, some dear Catholic friends, and made lasting friendships. I got married, had two kiddos, then kind of stopped. I didn’t mean to but… life.

Years later, my preteen daughter was looking for her niche, an activity she could enjoy and stick with. We tried the local taekwondo school (owned by a friend of mine.) Long story short, the whole family goes there now and she’s a black belt. (My test is this fall.) Again, lasting friendships, fun, and fitness.

So what’s the holdup with Catholicism? Well, in my case, none. In some cases, lots. Let me explain.

“While physical training is of limited value, devotion is valuable in every respect, since it holds a promise of life both for the present and for the future.” 1 Tim 4:8

There are some martial arts styles that promote or were heavily influenced by certain religious beliefs and practices. Kung Fu is from China (Buddhism). Kenpo Karate is from Japan and the style I initially studied (Shinto). Krav Maga is an Irsaeli style (Jewish). Silat is a brutal form from Indonesia (Indian Buddhism). Gatka is from India (Sikhism). Savata is from France (Roman Catholic). There are loads more but the point is clear; they all have roots or at least influence from some culture and religion.

So long as we’re not doing anything against the Lord, and we’re not harming ourselves (there’s some crazy martial arts forms out there), we’re clear to have fun, stay fit, and join in good fellowship. In my Kenpo classes, we would begin and end by kneeling and meditating. It was done for breathing, physical calm and focus. I would often pray in those moments. Our school had no inclination to focus on any Shinto practices, whatever they may be. In both styles I’ve studied (and really all), there’s a form of respect done through bowing to one’s teacher or when entering or leaving the place of learning. It’s not worship but manners that compels this practice. If it were worship or anything outside being polite and respectful, I would not do it. In fact, I would not attend that school.

In the end, find a fitness that works for you so long as your faith and obedience to the Lord is not compromised. God comes first, and then see to your own health and wellbeing. Always look into what you’re getting into before you invest. Martial arts is a fantastic way to stay fit and have fun doing it, but it’s not for everyone. Find what works for you to stay healthy and find the Bible and Catholic teaching to stay faithful.