> I promise, it wont be overnight, but it will be FAST. you will feel better, youll make friends without even trying. Its impossible to go through an hour of physical suffering every day with the same people and not end up gradually talking more and getting to know each other.
I really encourage people to try a martial art like boxing, muay thai, or brazilian jiu jitsu once COVID lockdowns are over.
These sports are extremely effective at fighting depression and loneliness for a couple of reasons:
1. You get plenty of one-on-one interaction
2. Shared suffering really does create bonds
3. There is a lot of positive validation ("great jab!", "nice hook")
4. You will see the same people 2,3,4 times a week
5. Exercise releases endorphins
6. You will be proud of how your body changes for the better
7. You will get many compliments on your new figure
8. You will get more romantic interest (looks do matter, and doing a fun/exciting sport can be bonus points in dating)
26y/o depressed kickboxer reporting. I'd like to add on this with my own experience.
4 years ago I joined a gym and that is hands down the best choice I made in my life.
While I agree on/confirm all other points, 6, 7 and 8 aren't that easy: everytime I talk about my hobby, I usually get one of these feedbacks:
- "he's dangerous, better stay away before a brawl starts"
- "nah, you don't looke like a fighter" (my body is slim type)
- general ignorant remarks about kickboxing vs muahy thai, or this gym vs that gym. Or my sport is better than yours.
The issue is two fold:
On one side, people are generally ignorant regarding martial arts (mechanics, techniques, mindset, morality).
On the other side, training usually gives you enough muscles to practice the art (and you'll notice that), but it might not be enough to give you "visible" muscles: for that you need a diet and training tailor suited to your body parameters.
A very dedicated martial artist got a concussion, then spiraled into depression. His blood work was all messed up. Doctor after doctor couldn't figure it out.
Finally landed on an occupational therapist who told him to start training again. Cleared it right up. Apparently going from 6 hours a day of training to 0 is rough.
I really encourage people to try a martial art like boxing, muay thai, or brazilian jiu jitsu once COVID lockdowns are over.
These sports are extremely effective at fighting depression and loneliness for a couple of reasons:
1. You get plenty of one-on-one interaction
2. Shared suffering really does create bonds
3. There is a lot of positive validation ("great jab!", "nice hook")
4. You will see the same people 2,3,4 times a week
5. Exercise releases endorphins
6. You will be proud of how your body changes for the better
7. You will get many compliments on your new figure
8. You will get more romantic interest (looks do matter, and doing a fun/exciting sport can be bonus points in dating)