International karate medalist and coach Sergei Shilovskikh believes this centuries-old martial art offers much more than physical skill, it’s a form of therapy that strengthens the minds and characters of today’s digital generation. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), the number of Americans participating in sports and fitness reached a record 80% last year. That’s about 247 million people, nearly 25 million more than in 2019. The surge is especially visible among young people: teens are rediscovering real, physical activity after years dominated by screens and online entertainment. Among martial arts enthusiasts, the benefits appear even stronger,…
Sergei Shilovskikh, an international competition medalist and karate coach, shares how this ancient martial art shapes young people’s character and helps them cope with the challenges of the digital age. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), last year, American participation in sports and fitness reached a record high of 80%. This means that 247.1 million people in the country engaged in at least one type of sport or fitness activity — 25.4 million more than in 2019. Interest has grown particularly among young people: many teenagers are returning to real physical activities after the pandemic and the…