By Anonymous

Reasons Everyone Should Learn Martial Arts aka Please Bring Back the Martial Arts Club:

• It is physical exercise. Americans need physical activity; sitting for hours on end doing homework is taxing on the body. A nice break to get some fun exercise in would be a welcome experience for most of us. 

• The martial arts community is generally very accepting. This may not be the case in all places, but I have been accepted in all areas where I have trained, even though I look very different from the people who trained with me.

• We live in an imperfect world; it is better to be safe than sorry. Vulnerable people should not have to be on edge, but the comfort of knowing that you can defend yourself is something that many people could use. 

• You will inevitably go outside of your comfort zone, which is a good thing! In my experience, when I was pushed out of my comfort zone, it made me a more confident person. I think that it could do the same for many people. 

I understand that taking martial arts is not possible for everyone, but I think that those who can should at least give it a try for a little while. On top of the reasons above, there is an unquantifiable feeling of appreciation that one gets after doing something that requires discipline. In short, please bring back the Martial Arts Club at Berea College.