Assessing the Psychological Impact and Mental Health Benefits of Martial Arts on Chinese Male Adults

Povzetek

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of traditional martial arts practices on the psychological well-being, mental health, and physical health of Chinese male adults, focusing on indicators such as stress levels, anxiety, depression, and overall emotional well-being, along with physical health markers like BMI and obesity rates. It explored how participation in martial arts, along with dietary habits and physical exercise, influences mental health outcomes, such as self-esteem, mood regulation, and resilience, with the ultimate goal of promoting both mental and physical well-being in this population. Furthermore, the study sought to develop an evidence-based physical fitness and mental health handbook that integrates traditional martial arts techniques, aimed at enhancing not only physical health but also psychological resilience, emotional regulation, and mental wellness. The theoretical framework was grounded in the Health Belief Model (HBM), which posits that individuals' perceptions of health risks, benefits, and psychological well-being influence their engagement in martial arts for both physical and mental health improvement. The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) was also employed to explore how attitudes, social norms, and perceived behavioral control shape intentions related to martial arts participation, dietary habits, physical activity, and psychological well-being. A quantitative methodology was utilized, involving a sample of 1,100 Chinese male adults. Participants were randomly selected from both urban and rural towns across China, ensuring a diverse representation in terms of socioeconomic status and geographic location. Data were analyzed using SPSS, employing both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques to assess the relationships between martial arts practice, diet, exercise, mental health outcomes, and physical health outcomes.