Training in martial arts has been known to increase a person’s strength and them to defend themselves as the need arises. However, martial arts, like all other things, has a lot of variations and depending on what you hope to achieve with it can help you to pick the right sport for you to try out. If you want to fight, mixed martial arts, the Fu San Soo, or even the Krav Maga may be more suited to you. However, if you simply want to tone up and perhaps lose extra pounds, which one is the best? This answer also depends on you.
If you are not a very active person, but you have 
the ambition to try and become more active, then you should consider Tai Chi. It is a very slow martial art in comparison to others. Its main focus is on gently building your joint’s strength, improving your balance, and above all, stabilizing your muscles. With this type of martial arts, you may not see immediate results and it will do very little for weight loss, but it will help you reach your goal strength. From there, you can also take part in other martial arts that may increase your weight loss and fitness levels. This martial art is best suited for older people who are not necessarily looking to become quick on their feet or active in street fights.
If you are already an active person, you may lean more toward Capoeira, especially if you want a fun, intense workout that can help you increase your flexibility and more. It is a martial art that does not feel like you are learning a martial art. It is almost a dance style martial arts that shows you how to protect yourself. It is not a recommended activity for people who are suffering with a disability or those who have major health issues.
Anyone can take part in a martial arts class and most people will reach a level of fitness that is higher than what they started with. This is because with all martial arts, there is a degree of physical activity and mental devotion that come into play. You simply have to choose the one you want to learn how to practice. The rest, will be just increasing your skill and your own personal level of fitness.
