Why Nigerians should embrace martial art – Expert
A martial arts expert, Steven Cowan, has given reasons why everyone, including Nigerians, should embrace and become a martial artist.
The British-born martial artist, who specialises in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, said the innate benefits of the art are enormous, transforming the body and mind.
According to him, martial arts isn’t just something to be experienced at some point in life, but something everyone should experience very early due to its innate benefits to the human mind and body, particularly in children.
In a statement he signed on Monday, Cowen advised Nigerians to adopt BJJ martial arts given that work had become largely remote these days and not everyone gets enough physical activity every day.
He noted that BJJ is not just a sport, but a lifestyle that promotes physical health, mental well-being, and personal growth.
Cowan said BJJ was increasingly being embraced as both a competitive discipline and a self-defense system, with enthusiasts focusing more on athleticism, leg locks, and wrestling integration.
“From Africa to Asia, from Europe to America and Australia, everyone should become a martial artist of some sort. The benefits are just too many to be limited to specific regions,” the multiple BJJ champion said.
He said with his 25 years of experience on how the art can improve lives, there was a need to take the philosophy of BJJ across the Atlantic.
“BJJ offers a unique blend of physical fitness, mental discipline, and self-defense skills. Unlike many traditional martial arts that rely heavily on striking, BJJ focuses on grappling and ground fighting, using leverage and technique rather than brute strength.
“This makes it especially effective for individuals of all sizes, teaching smaller or physically weaker practitioners how to defend themselves against larger opponents.
“Over time, regular training improves cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, strength, and coordination, making BJJ an excellent full-body workout,” Cowen said.
Beyond the physical benefits, the expert explained that BJJ sharpens the mind, adding that the sport is often described as ‘human chess’.
“Practitioners learn patience, quick thinking, and problem-solving under pressure. These mental skills carry over into daily life, enhancing focus, resilience, and decision-making.
“The sport also instills discipline, respect, and humility, which are fundamental values inside and outside the dojo,” he added.
