ABOUT
MartialArts4Women is a non-profit organisation that aims to promote and further women’s participation in martial arts by researching and removing the barriers faced.
Currently twice as many men participate in martial arts as women, a metric that has held steady during the 6 years of the UK-wide sport surveying. This is worse in grappling sports such as Judo, Aikido, or Ju-Jitsu, where male participation is up to 3 times higher.
Furthermore, female participation drop-off from youth to adult is steeper than male drop off, with only 12.5% of women participating in martial arts at age 55 vs 16, compared with male 42% retention through the same age brackets.
MartialArts4Women manages projects that help to redress this imbalance and promote greater female participation in all martial arts.
Encouraging, Supporting & Promoting
Women’s Participation in Martial Arts
BENEFITS OF MARTIAL ARTS
As a form of physical exercise, martial arts is a great all-rounder - it can offer increased fitness and strength, as well as better balance, flexibility and co-ordination.
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However, the benefits of martial arts go well beyond the physical.
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Some forms of martial art place emphasis on regulated breathing; others focus on personal self-improvement; all adhere to strong moral principles of respect, tolerance, control and mental strength.
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Martial arts have been proven to increase self-confidence, co-ordination and reflexes; it promotes mental well-being and self-control, as well as offering the benefits of community by training within a like-minded group.
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Moreover, victims of trauma and abuse can respond well to its use of rhythmic patterns, a reconnection with the body and its strengths, empowerment through learning practical self-defence skills, a focus on well-being and self-improvement, not to mention the human connection of training with others in a supportive environment.
CURRENT PROJECTS
Sporting injuries
We are currently collaborating with academic researchers to identify & reduce common sporting injuries experienced by women in martial arts.
Female-fit uniform
Based on survey results across several martial arts, we are developing an entry-level women's fit uniform to encourage beginner take-up of martial arts.
Self-defence for trauma
Creation of a self-defence course specifically aimed at female survivors of domestic & childhood abuse that utilises the psychological & empowering benefits of martial arts training alongside a trauma-informed approach.
CONTACT
