Can Martial Arts Help With Anxiety and Depression?

Martial arts training may help, but it is not a treatment. A 2020 meta-analysis of 14 studies found that martial arts training had a small positive effect on wellbeing and a medium effect on internalizing mental health. The CDC says regular physical activity can reduce the risk of depression and anxiety. If you have symptoms, talk to a doctor or mental health professional.

What does the research say?

2020 meta-analysis (14 studies). Martial arts training had a small positive effect on wellbeing and a medium effect on internalizing mental health. It had no significant effect on aggression. The studies varied widely.
2024 systematic review in adults (martial arts and combat sports). It included 70 cross-sectional and 2 longitudinal studies. Links with inhibition and perception were consistent, but the evidence for attention and memory was limited.

What does the CDC say about exercise and mental health?

Some benefits come right after a session of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, including reduced short-term feelings of anxiety in adults.
Regular physical activity can reduce your risk of depression and anxiety and help you sleep better.

The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) lists regular exercise as a self-care step and says just 30 minutes of walking every day can boost your mood and improve your health.

What does Kumdo training involve?

The Korea Kumdo Association says Kumdo training builds concentration, patience, decisiveness and calm. Its etiquette guide says Kumdo begins and ends with courtesy. Beginners learn the basics for about three months before training in armor. These are descriptions of the training from the association, not research results.

For stress in particular, see Does Martial Arts Help With Stress? Can Kumdo Help?

FAQ

Does martial arts help with anxiety?

A 2020 meta-analysis found a medium effect of martial arts training on internalizing mental health, and the CDC says physical activity can reduce short-term feelings of anxiety in adults. It is not a replacement for treatment.

Can martial arts help with depression?

The CDC says regular physical activity can reduce the risk of depression. A 2020 meta-analysis of martial arts studies found that the studies varied widely; talk to a professional about treatment.

What martial art is best for mental health?

The research above did not name one best martial art. The American Psychological Association says the important thing is to find an activity you enjoy and stick with it.

Train at US Hwa Rang Kwan

US Hwa Rang Kwan Kumdo teaches students 7 years and older in Chantilly, Virginia and Ellicott City, Maryland. New students at the Chantilly, VA dojang can start with 3 semi-private lessons for $19.99. For Ellicott City, please contact us before you visit.