Ying Yang Malta: Fighting Obesity Through Martial Arts

By Alexander Zammit

Major studies have shown that Maltese children, due to a sedentary lifestyle are not only amongst the most obese in Europe but the World. Only around 25% of Maltese children are involved in any form of physical activity.

Preventing and treating overweight and obesity in children & youth must be done through increased physical activity.

Activities should be fun and attractive and the practice of the Martial Arts offers a solution in the fight against obesity.

Martial arts are known to improve social skills, discipline, and respect in children. Children can also improve their abilities to concentrate and focus on activities, as well as bettering their motor skills and self-confidence. Martial arts can be fun and beneficial at any age.

The Ying Yang Kickboxing Club which is located on the small island of Malta was founded by Master Noel Mercieca in 1996.  Master Mercieca is a 5th Dan in Kickboxing, 1st Dan in Tang Soo Doo, Brown Belt in Spirit Combat, European Champion and a runner up World Title. He is also a qualified gym instructor, a Military fitness Instructor and a sports masseur.

Master Mercieca understands the need to have a healthy balance between study time and sport and for this purpose, the Ying Yang Kickboxing and Martial Arts Club, has designed programs for youth and children. As with any good sport school, Noel lists safety as the first priority of the children and youth classes. After all, martial arts training is meant to improve the child and youth in all aspects of life. Avoiding injury is a priority.

“At Ying Yang, we are like an extended family. We truly enjoy each other's company; amongst our younger members we already have second generation students. Maybe that's the secret of why the club has grown so large over the past 15 years” said Master Noel Mercieca.

For more details, follow the link to the Ying Yang Kickboxing Club

The martial arts were originally established as structured systems of combat training. Today, they are also studied for their value in self-defence, and enjoyed as modes of sport and physical development.

Ying Yang Club Structure and Equipment - The club distinguishes its members, according to their age and training experience, with traditional Martial Arts Belts (from White to Black) which are gained throughout certified grading sessions that take place over specific periods of months and training.

The gym is composed of locker rooms (including showers) for each separate gender and is also equipped with training equipment.  The floor is covered with protective mats to absorb falling impact. Instructors are trained in first aid and first aid kits & other safety equipment is installed and ready in case of emergencies.

Training Schedule: Ying Yang holds training activities and various classes throughout the week. Kindly click this link for address and instructions on how to locate the club.

Link: More information on obesity