Martial Arts for Stress Relief: Can Kumdo Help?

Martial arts like Kumdo can be one way to manage stress, because exercise in general helps. The American Psychological Association says people have lower levels of stress hormones such as cortisol after bouts of physical activity, and the CDC says some benefits come right after a session of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, including reduced short-term feelings of anxiety in adults. A 2020 review of martial arts studies found a small positive effect on wellbeing.

This page is general information. If stress or anxiety is affecting your daily life, talk to a doctor or mental health professional.

How does exercise help with stress?

Stress hormones. The APA says exercise first raises the body's stress response, but afterward people have lower levels of stress hormones like cortisol and epinephrine.
Short-term anxiety. The CDC says a session of moderate-to-vigorous activity brings immediate benefits, including reduced short-term feelings of anxiety in adults.
Long-term. The CDC says regular physical activity can reduce your risk of depression and anxiety and help you sleep better.
Any kind counts. The APA says all kinds of exercise can help manage stress, and that the important thing is to find an activity you enjoy and stick with it.

What does research say about martial arts and mental health?

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. It found no significant effect on aggression. The studies varied widely, so the results are not the same for every program or person.

What does Kumdo add?

The Korea Kumdo Association says Kumdo training builds concentration, patience, decisiveness and calm. Its etiquette guide says Kumdo begins and ends with courtesy, and players bow to each other before a match. Kumdo uses a strong shout called gibu-rim, such as calling out the name of the target you strike; the association says it helps you encourage yourself and focus your strength.

These are descriptions of the training from the Korea Kumdo Association, not research results.

FAQ

Does martial arts help with anxiety?

According to the CDC, a session of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity can bring reduced short-term feelings of anxiety in adults. A 2020 meta-analysis found a medium effect of martial arts training on internalizing symptoms. It is not a replacement for treatment.

Is Kumdo good for beginners who want to relieve stress?

The Korea Kumdo Association says beginners learn the basics in about three months before training in armor, so you can start slowly.

How often should I exercise for stress?

The CDC recommends 150 minutes of moderate activity a week for adults. The APA says the key is an activity you enjoy and keep doing.

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.