The effects of Martial Arts training on college students’ quality of life
Location
SU-217
Start Date
1-5-2026 12:30 PM
Department
Physical Education, Exercise Science, and Recreation
Abstract
Background/Purpose Martial Arts (MA) are traditional forms of combat created for the purpose of personal and physical development (Brenan, 2024). MA practice spans across multiple cultures and countries, and is often done in a group environment. Due to the inclusive nature that MA provides, it is one of the best forms of physical activity (PA). PA is the body’s result of energy expenditure due to bodily movements (World Health Organization [WHO], 2024). It has been recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that adults engage in 150 minutes per week of PA (CDC, 2023). Unfortunately, only one in ten adults are aware of these recommendations (Chen et al, 2023). For college students, MA provides an alternative way to be physically active while engaging with others. The purpose of this study was to examine how MA impacted college students' quality of life and college experience. Methods This IRB approved study interviewed six college students at one Midwestern university. All participants were full-time students who engaged in MA training at least once a week and were all members of their university Brazilian Jiujitsu club. After signing consent forms, participants engaged in 30-45 minute semi-structured interviews. Participants were asked about their PA levels, how well they work with others, MA training, and overall college experience. Analysis/Results Interviews were transcribed and coded for themes pertaining to the benefits that MA training has had on their student experience, quality of life, and well-being. Three themes emerged: 1) social & structural influences on physical activity, 2) physical activity and quality of life, and 3) navigating challenges through accountability and support. Discussion This research highlights positive contributions that MA have as a form of PA for college students and will contribute to existing literature regarding many benefits of MA training. Results of this study show that when put in a positive and inclusive environment, one can generate a sense of responsibility, worth, and belonging. According to Kotarska et al. (2019), MA practitioners who train competitively are less likely to engage in habits such as smoking and drinking but more likely to engage in regular doctor visits and exhibit a better quality of life.
Faculty Sponsor
Kimberly Maljak
Faculty Sponsor
James Ball
The effects of Martial Arts training on college students’ quality of life
SU-217
Background/Purpose Martial Arts (MA) are traditional forms of combat created for the purpose of personal and physical development (Brenan, 2024). MA practice spans across multiple cultures and countries, and is often done in a group environment. Due to the inclusive nature that MA provides, it is one of the best forms of physical activity (PA). PA is the body’s result of energy expenditure due to bodily movements (World Health Organization [WHO], 2024). It has been recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that adults engage in 150 minutes per week of PA (CDC, 2023). Unfortunately, only one in ten adults are aware of these recommendations (Chen et al, 2023). For college students, MA provides an alternative way to be physically active while engaging with others. The purpose of this study was to examine how MA impacted college students' quality of life and college experience. Methods This IRB approved study interviewed six college students at one Midwestern university. All participants were full-time students who engaged in MA training at least once a week and were all members of their university Brazilian Jiujitsu club. After signing consent forms, participants engaged in 30-45 minute semi-structured interviews. Participants were asked about their PA levels, how well they work with others, MA training, and overall college experience. Analysis/Results Interviews were transcribed and coded for themes pertaining to the benefits that MA training has had on their student experience, quality of life, and well-being. Three themes emerged: 1) social & structural influences on physical activity, 2) physical activity and quality of life, and 3) navigating challenges through accountability and support. Discussion This research highlights positive contributions that MA have as a form of PA for college students and will contribute to existing literature regarding many benefits of MA training. Results of this study show that when put in a positive and inclusive environment, one can generate a sense of responsibility, worth, and belonging. According to Kotarska et al. (2019), MA practitioners who train competitively are less likely to engage in habits such as smoking and drinking but more likely to engage in regular doctor visits and exhibit a better quality of life.