Learn a Martial Art on Vacation

Kung fu master silhouetterd at sunset | Photo by Mohammed Hasan/Pixabay

Have you ever wanted to learn a martial art but couldn’t find the time? Is a vacation the only time you can ever get a break? Consider combining martial arts training and a vacation for an unforgettable experience.

Most people think of going to Disney World or visiting the Grand Canyon for a vacation. That’s nice, but what about something different?

Vacations focusing on experiences are all the rage these days. From motorcycle tours to surfing, you can find a vacation in which you are actively engaged in something instead of just visiting site to site.

What types of martial arts are best to learn while on vacation?
Just about every martial art has a vacation experience. You really can’t go wrong. You can learn kung-fu in China, or train Brazilian Jiujitsu in Thailand. Make sure to use a well known booking vendor such as StudyMartialArts.org to find the type of martial art and camp that is best for you. It's important that you get independent travel advice so that you can get the best experience possible.

Keep in mind that although most martial arts camps will welcome beginners you should double check before you book as each vacation/camp provider is different. Usually absolute beginners are welcome, but make sure that each location offers such services.

Why learn a martial art on vacation?
Martial arts can be great fun and exercise. Combine that with an exotic location, such as Thailand or Brazil and you have the recipe for a great getaway. Beyond the physical and mental benefits, learning a martial art on vacation is a great way to connect with your family and create international friends.

Perhaps the best reason to study a martial art on a vacation is that it can make for a great travel story for years to come. Who wants to hear about the canal tour you took? A story about how you kicked through 5 layers of bricks in Japan is way cooler.

You might be asking, is learning a martial art in a foreign country safe? The answer is that martial arts entail physical activity and contact so there is some inherent risk to injury. That said, martial arts are quite safe when practiced properly. Everything will be fine as long as you follow the rules and are respectful of others.

What else should be kept in mind?
Before you go, make sure you check visa and travel requirements. Also, make sure that you check which accomodations your camp may or may not provide. This includes any special training equipment you might need. Also, don’t forget to buy appropriate travel insurance in case you need to go to a medical provider.

If in doubt call the vendor to confirm. Most of the time everything you need to know is on the website, but you should get the advice of your booking company in case you have doubts.

Forget the beach, get on the mat for your next trip!

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