Before you take up any new physical pursuit, it's a good idea to assess the health of your body and estimate whether the activity will be safe for you. Enrolling in a martial arts class has lots of benefits — you'll be more physically fit, you may notice a surge in your self-confidence, and you'll be able to more easily defend yourself. If you've had back pain, however, you'll want to take a careful approach to taking up this physical activity. In fact, you may wish to visit a chiropractor or physical therapist to ensure that your body is up to the task. Here are some considerations in this regard.
Good in Some Ways
Practicing martial arts may actually be good for your back health — provided that your back care practitioner agrees with this idea. When you train in this discipline, you'll be building muscle in all major muscle groups of your body. A stronger back can be beneficial in a number of ways. For example, if you've been slouching to the point that your back is sore, it could be because of a lack of muscle development. Stronger back and core muscles can encourage you to sit straighter, which can make this athletic endeavor valuable for your back health.
Careful When Training
You'll need to carefully evaluate the specific type of martial art and how it might impact your back. Upright martial arts such as karate, for example, may be valuable for helping you to develop a body that is more limber. Grappling martial arts, such as jujitsu, could potentially pose a threat to your existing back condition. If you were to grapple with a stronger opponent and get your back twisted awkwardly, you may end up with more back pain that when you started your training.
Baby Steps Are Useful
If you're keen on taking up a martial art despite your back pain, be sure to take baby steps. In addition to choosing a specific discipline that is suitable for your type of pain, don't throw yourself into this activity without taking care. Attend one class, and then rest the next day and see how your back feels. You should try to take this gradual approach so that you don't exacerbate something. And, should you notice that your pain is getting worse, avoid taking additional classes right away and be sure to visit your back care specialist promptly.
