DOI: 10.18848/2156-8960/cgp/a465 ISSN: 2156-9053

Narrative Review on the Impact of Karate on Mental Health

Rajesh Mithur, Anil Kakunje, Tephila K. Paul, Adithi E. Bhat
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Karate, an oriental martial art, has emphasized discipline, focus, and exercise, and has gained popularity as a holistic way of leading life. This narrative review focuses on scientific studies exploring the integration of Karate’s physical, social, and spiritual benefits. A comprehensive search of research was conducted from 2020 to 2024 with the aid of Web of Science and Google Scholar databases. The following terms were combined in the searches using different operators: Karate, physiological benefits, psychology, mental health, spiritual benefits, character development, effect, outcome, and impact. A total of 17,500 records were found. By screening with inclusion criteria and removing duplicates, eighty-five publications were selected for the review. Regarding physical health, karate is found to improve flexibility, balance, coordination, and cardiac health, significantly impacting personal life. Psychologically, Karate improves cognitive function, self-regulation, concentration, and emotional stability. Research indicates reductions in perceived stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms among practitioners. The structured and repetitive nature of Karate enhances mindfulness, resilience, spiritual well-being, and self-esteem, providing a non-pharmacological tool for mental and general well-being. With its preventive and psychological role, Karate is said to have a significant positive role in a person’s life. Though Karate is found to have a positive impact, studies on it are seriously lacking. Hence, we here explore the existing scientific literature to understand the impact of Karate and explore its intersection with physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

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