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Martial arts helps boomers
If working out in the gym isn't appealing, middle-aged men and women wanting to boost their overall fitness should try martial arts training.
Researchers at the Institute of Technology in Westbury, N.Y., found that 40 to 60 year-olds who practiced soo bahk do, an ancient Korean martial art similar to karate, were in much better shape after three years than their more sedentary counterparts.
They had greater aerobic capacity, muscle strength and endurance, less body fat, better balance and increased heart and breathing fitness.
"Heath professionals should be aware that alternative methods, such as martial arts training, can increase physical fitness of middle-aged people," Dr Peter Douris said in the British Journal of Sports Medicine today.
Soo bahk do involves hand and foot techniques to improve flexibility, strength, stamina and speed.
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