Martial arts have become a popular form of physical activity and self-defense all around the world. Whether you are practicing traditional martial arts like Karate or Judo, or modern disciplines like MMA, there is always something new to learn and explore.
In this article, we will share martial arts statistics that shed light on the trends, insights, and impact of martial arts.
Key Martial Arts Statistics 2023 – MY Choice
- Since 2012, the number of martial arts businesses in the United States has grown at an average rate of 18.7%.
- The martial arts studio market in the United States was worth $8.16 billion in 2020, a number projected to grow to $9.05 billion in 2022.
- The average child stops participating in mixed martial arts by age 9.
- In 2021 2.34 million people participated in mixed martial arts for fitness in the U.S.
- There were 39,310 martial arts businesses in the United States in 2020, with 50,490 businesses projected by the end of 2022.
- On average, children participating in mixed martial arts remain active in the sport for 2.6 years
The Global Landscape of Martial Arts
Martial arts are not confined to a specific region or country. These statistics show the global popularity of martial arts and the extent of their reach.
- Martial arts are practiced in over 190 countries worldwide, making it one of the most popular forms of physical activity.
- The global market for martial arts equipment and apparel is estimated to be worth over $9 billion.
- The United States is the largest market for martial arts, with over 6 million practitioners.
- China has the largest number of martial arts styles, with over 400 different types.
- Brazil is known for its dominance in mixed martial arts (MMA), with several world champions in the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC).
The Benefits of Martial Arts
Martial arts offer numerous physical and mental benefits that go beyond just self-defense. These statistics highlight some of the positive effects of practicing martial arts.
- Regular practice of martial arts can lead to improved cardiovascular health, increased flexibility, and better balance.
- Martial arts can boost mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Children who practice martial arts are more disciplined, have better focus, and perform better in school.
- Martial arts can be a powerful tool for self-defense, providing individuals with the skills and confidence to protect themselves.
The Demographics of Martial Arts
Martial arts have a diverse following, with practitioners ranging from young children to older adults. These statistics provide insights into the demographics of martial arts.
- Martial arts are popular among women, with over 40% of practitioners being female.
- The average age of martial arts practitioners is 33 years old.
- Children aged 6-12 make up the largest age group of martial arts practitioners.
- Martial arts are popular among military and law enforcement personnel, who often use it as a form of training.
The Business of Martial Arts
Martial arts are not just a form of physical activity, but also a thriving business. These statistics provide insights into the commercial side of martial arts.
- The martial arts industry generates over $4 billion in revenue in the United States alone.
- The average cost of martial arts classes ranges from $100 to $150 per month.
- Martial arts schools employ over 150,000 people in the United States.
- The most successful martial arts schools have a high student retention rate and offer a variety of classes and programs.
The Impact of Martial Arts
Martial arts have had a significant impact on popular culture, sports, and entertainment. These statistics highlight some of the ways in which martial arts have influenced society.
- The popularity of martial arts films like Bruce Lee’s “Enter the Dragon” and Jackie Chan’s “Drunken Master” helped to popularize martial arts around the world.
- Mixed martial arts (MMA) has become a mainstream sport, with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) being one of the most-watched sporting events in the world.
- Martial arts have influenced other forms of physical activity, such as yoga and Pilates, which incorporate martial arts movements into their routines.
Martial Arts School Averages by Country
| COUNTRY | AVG. ANNUAL REVENUE (LOCAL CURRENCY) | USD NORMALIZED | AVG. MEMBERSHIP |
| USA | $114,657 | $114,657 | 112 |
| Canada | $143,313 CAD | $109,842 | 136 |
| Australia | $75,767 AUD | $52,108 | 114 |
| UK | £66,529 | $78,276 | 143 |
| EU | €70,967 | $70,557 | 159 |
U.S. Martial Arts Schools Annual Revenue by Gym Size
- The average annual revenue for U.S. martial arts schools with under 50 members is $30,782 .
- The average annual revenue for U.S. martial arts schools with 51 – 100 members is $72,410 .
- The average annual revenue for U.S. martial arts schools with 101 – 200 members is $154,433 .
- The average annual revenue for U.S. martial arts schools with 201 – 300 members is $269,962 .
- The average annual revenue for U.S. martial arts schools with over 300 members is $369,209 .
| Year | Number of Participants |
| 2021 | 2.34 million |
| Year | Number of Businesses |
| 2020 | 39,310 |
| 2022 (Projected) | 50,490 |
| Year | Number of Participants |
| 2021 | 1.03 million |
Business and Revenue Data
| Year | Revenue |
| 2020 | $8.16 billion |
| 2023 | $10 billion |
| Year | Wholesale Sales |
| 2021 | $578 million |
| Quarter | Expenditures |
| Q3 2020 | $35,525 |
Taekwondo and karate, with 33% of respondents reporting participation in both sports.
U.S. Martial Arts Annual Revenue by Discipline
- The highest earning discipline in the U.S. is MMA, averaging $254,083 in annual revenue
- Boxing is the second highest earning discipline in the U.S., averaging $152,544 in annual revenue
- Brazilian jiu-jitsu is the third highest earning discipline in the U.S., averaging $139,193 in annual revenue
- Karate is the fourth highest earning discipline in the U.S., averaging $105,472 in annual revenue
- Taekwondo is the fifth highest earning discipline in the U.S., averaging $103,455 in annual revenue
- Kung fu is the sixth highest earning discipline in the U.S., averaging $74,783 in annual revenue
| Age Group | Percentage of People Interested |
| 18-34 | 49% |
| 35-44 | 51% |
| 45-64 | 34% |
| 65+ | 20% |
| Discipline | Number of Respondents |
| Karate | 46,166 |
| Kickboxing | 9,540 |
| Judo | 26,362 |
| Taekwondo ITF | 10,407 |
| Ju-jitsu | 7,011 |
| Taekwondo WTF | 4,249 |
| Freestyle wrestling | 4,187 |
| Boxing | 9,327 |
U.S. Martial Arts Annual Revenue by Discipline
| Discipline | Average Annual Revenue |
| MMA | $254,083 |
| Boxing | $152,544 |
| Brazilian jiu-jitsu | $139,193 |
| Karate | $105,472 |
| Taekwondo | $103,455 |
| Kung fu | $74,783 |
Conclusion
Martial arts have come a long way from their origins as a form of self-defense. Today, they are a popular form of physical activity, a thriving business, and a cultural phenomenon.
These martial arts statistics provide insights into the global landscape of martial arts, their benefits, demographics, business, and impact. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or a curious observer, there is always something new to learn about martial arts.
