Martial arts fitness

Want to kick up your fitness routine? Looking to put a little more punch into your regular workout? Martial arts fitness is just what you need. Whether it's the high-flying kicks of taekwondo, or the slow, controlled movements of Taoist tai chi, find your perfect fit -- and a convenient class -- with these helpful tips:

Taekwondo
"Taekwondo is considered the world's most popular martial art," says Jeff Pollock, a taekwondo master in Saint John. Taekwondo can be translated as 'the way of defending with foot and fist' and it involves high kicks and fancy legwork. But don't let that scare you. "There is no required fitness level to participate in taekwondo," says Pollock. Classes usually run one- to one-and-a-half hours and you should practise two or three times per week for noticeable benefits including improved stamina, weight loss and muscle toning, he says.

Annual fees for taekwondo classes vary from $300 to over $1,000. There are also testing fees (to achieve belts) and tournament costs for those wishing to compete. But Pollock adds that many gyms offer family plans, which reduce costs and encourage entire families to join in. Find a class near you by checking out the Taekwondo Association of Canada's website for links to provincial associations.

Judo
With stunning throws and strangle holds, judo is a cardiovascular and strength workout that'll enhance your power and increase your flexibility. Judo is a Japanese martial art, with roots in the lethal method of self-defense known as jujitsu. Judo welcomes all fitness levels. Like taekwondo, how often you practise judo is up to you, but most beginner classes are scheduled once or twice a week. The cost is about $200 for a beginner's course (it usually lasts as long as a school year). Look for a gym that's registered with Judo Canada, the national body for the sport. To find a class near you, visit www.judocanada.org, for your provinces' website and club listing.

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Karate
Karate is a Japanese form of unarmed combat. The full-contact sport is known for flying sidekicks. A variation of this, kyokushin karate, uses circular movements when executing techniques, as opposed to the linear movements of traditional karate. While classes are held for participants of all ages, kyokushin karate is known as the strongest form of karate, and devoted students are required to participate in strenuous training and conditioning. Classes are usually held twice a week and cost about $500 annually, plus uniform and equipment. To find a kyokushin class near you, go to www.kyokushin.ca and click on the "Dojos" link.

Kickboxing
Kickboxing is exactly what it sounds like. It's boxing with kicks. However, it is also a popular fitness regime drawing many to attend kickboxing fitness classes. Classes range from beginner to advanced and can cost between $500 and $700 annually. There are also cardio strength workouts, which use kickboxing purely for its fitness aspects, and you don't have to test your skills against another. For more information on kickboxing, or to find a club near you, go to www.kickboxingcanada.org.

Tai chi
Tai chi is a slower martial art that focuses on controlled, graceful movements. Taoist tai chi is a variation of the traditional form with emphasis on promoting and restoring health. Because of its slower pace, tai chi may be the martial art of choice for those who have injuries or difficulty moving quickly. There are also modified Taoist tai chi classes that allow those recovering from health problems to reap the benefits. Unlike several the other martial arts, tai chi does not have rankings such as belts or levels to achieve.

Memberships for Taoist tai chi centres run between $120 and $500 annually and there are no equipment costs. For more information or to find a centre near you, visit the International Taoist Tai Chi society at www.taoist.org.