Can Martial Arts Improve Workplace Performance?

World-class martial artists have incredible focus, speed, and stamina - both on and off the mat. Even at a recreational level, those that practice martial arts are disciplined, focused, and resilient. It stands to reason that the physical and mental health benefits that come with practising martial arts can also improve workplace performance.The Science Behind Martial Arts Training

There are scientific studies that show that martial arts training has a tangible impact on the human body and mind.

A 2024 review published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences confirmed that martial arts does have an impact on enhancing attention and cognitive function. The physical exercise aspect of martial arts training has been proven to increase brain?derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein responsible for memory and learning. Raised levels of BDNF is directly linked to improved cognitive performance.

Unlike regular physical exercise, martial arts also come with a mental aspect that shapes and influences training. Mindfulness exercises, emotional regulation, and mental focus are present in every practice session, building healthy mind habits that can be applied in the workplace.

In 2018, a study on the effects of martial arts training on attentional networks in adults found that those who had consistently practiced martial arts were able to process information and react more quickly than those who did not. The study also highlighted that the improvement in attention and responsiveness also increases with years practising martial arts.

The Effects of Martial Arts on Workplace Performance

Improved Cognitive Ability

Martial arts practitioners develop the ability to process information quickly during training sessions. When sparring with others, a martial artist observes what their opponent does, considers the best possible response, and has to act on the right action within milliseconds.

The ability to perform split-second thinking and critical decision making will carry into the workplace, allowing for fast analysis, productive decision-making, and efficient task management.

Self-Discipline

Martial arts promote self-discipline and regulation. Learning new techniques requires repeated practice that practitioners are expected to perform on their own. Consistently exercising self-discipline can make it easier to curb negative work behaviours like procrastination.

The value of perseverance learnt through martial arts can also contribute to a more positive work ethic and problem solving skills.

Reduced Stress  

Workplace stress is a real challenge faced by many Australians. In July 2022, a Beyond Blue survey revealed that 50% of workers had suffered burnout in the past year. Those who are highly stressed tend to experience decreased productivity and are more likely to make poor decisions that lead to errors.

Martial arts training is a healthy way to release workplace stress and emotional pressure, rather than having it weigh heavily through their day to day. The mental health benefits of martial arts, such as stress relief and emotional regulation, help participants to feel and work at their best.

Confidence Building

Every style of martial art has a series of skill levels that members progress through. For instance, there are 4 ‘Grades’ and 6 ‘Levels’ for Wing Chun Kung Fu practitioners to achieve. Attaining a level of mastery gives one a sense of accomplishment and increases self-esteem. 

When people feel more confident in themselves, they become more decisive and perform better on the job. A 2023 Frontiers in Psychology study found a positive correlation between self-esteem and productivity, with confident and self-assured workers being more productive and able to manage high expectations on the job more effectively.

Better workplace performance is one of the many reasons why people choose to pick up martial arts training. As a martial arts school based in Townsville, we've seen firsthand how our programs have helped children, teens, and adults in life, school, and at work.

Our martial arts programs for Wing Chun Kung Fu, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, kickboxing, and Krav Maga are led by experienced instructors with are suitable for all ages- schedule your first class with us today. UMF Academy’s martial arts classes also incorporate the industry’s #1 Character Development System, which teaches students important life values such as respect, honesty, and self-discipline.