Stay Fit With Martial Arts

They can help you achieve physical, emotional and spiritual health

12 years of Tai Chi

Seith Schentzel, Ph.D., of Allentown has 12 years of formal training in tai chi (shown here) and several other martial arts styles and uses them to maintain his health and fitness. A clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist, he often recommends martial arts to his clients. Schentzel’s wife, Pat, has taken tai chi with him for more than a year.

Can Martial Arts Improve Fertility?

It may sound surprising, but practices like qigong and tai chi may help if you’re trying to get pregnant. They and other complementary therapies like acupressure, acupuncture, yoga and massage therapy have been shown to enhance fertility, says Wendy Schilling, M.D., reproductive endocrinologist and fertility specialist at Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network. Qigong combines movement and meditation, using the body’s own energy to promote well-being. Tai chi encourages physical, mental and spiritual renewal. These practices can reduce stress and other factors that can block conception.

Want to Know More about fertility treatment at Lehigh Valley Hospital? Call 610-402-CARE.

Imagine finding a magic potion that would improve your strength, flexibility and balance, ease stress, boost energy and confidence, help you sleep, strengthen your heart, lower your blood pressure, reduce your weight and make you feel young again.

These are some of the benefits of martial arts. There are many different styles, but they share a core principle—blending mental, physical and emotional practice to create overall health and well-being.

“These systems train more than just the body. The body may have limitations, but the mind has infinite potential,” says Michael Angelone, instructor of tai chi and other martial arts. “The mind and body work together to create wellness. You’ll see the difference in your skin, bones, circulation, muscle tone and nervous system, and you’ll also see it in the way you approach the world and how you handle challenges in daily life.”

Family physician John Gray, D.O., of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network recommends martial arts for self-defense as well as other health benefits. He holds a black belt in karate and a blue belt in Gracie Ju-Jitsu and teaches a special form of self-defense to his patients who use a cane. “Both cane defense and tai chi help patients feel more confident about going out. They can protect themselves, and tai chi helps them feel more stable on their feet and less likely to fall,” he says.

Clearly, martial arts are not just for the young and strong. “Anyone can do it,” Angelone says. “You’re never too old, and it’s never too late to start.” Here’s how:

• Study the different styles and their physical requirements and choose one you can realistically practice.
• Look for programs that fully integrate the mental, spiritual and physical. Some just focus on fancy moves.
• Look at all the options, from martial arts schools to community and hospital programs.
• Beware of programs that require long-term memberships or large fees.
• Find an instructor you like, who considers your needs and goals and shares a similar philosophy. Make sure he or she is thoroughly trained and experienced.
• Observe classes for teaching method, practice and safety. Talk with students about their goals and what they get from classes.
• Look for cleanliness and mats that are full-size, well-padded and not worn.

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