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Traditional martial arts on Vietnam holidays

Martial arts enthusiasts are regularly drawn to the Far East thanks to the region’s rich history and fascinating culture, and one country in particular is emerging as an inspirational destination for travellers looking to practise their mixed martial arts talent.

Vietnam, which is easily accessible on low cost flights from the UK, has something of a mysterious martial arts history, and the promise of discovering more about the ancient practice is proving enticing for those thinking of fitness-based Vietnam holidays.

Among the nation’s top attractions are Phu Ouoc Island, a mountainous and forested tropical paradise boasting traditional fishing villages and stunning sandy beaches; the Mekong Delta, arguably Vietnam’s most peaceful region and one known as the ‘rice basket’; and Mui Ne Beach, an isolated expanse of glittering white sand.

Many holidaymakers staying in discount hotels prioritise a spot of relaxation during their trip, but getting involved in local traditions and practises is arguably the best way to become immersed in Vietnamese culture.

Mixed martial arts is central to the nation’s social history, and many travellers embarking on holiday to Vietnam use it as an incentive to get in shape before their trip – whether they want to try their hand at Van Vo Dao or Vo Thuat or simply look their best while sunbathing on the beaches of Halong Bay.

One of the best ways of doing this is by embracing Power Plate technology, which allows you to improve your reflex fitness by using vibration technology to tone your muscles and stimulate your nerves. Combining this with Vietnamese martial arts will notably improve your cardiovascular system in next to no time.

If you’re keen to explore more of Vietnam’s intriguing past, you may be tempted by a visit to Hue, the country’s old imperial capital and cultural and intellectual epicentre. Home to a plethora of temples, tombs and pagodas, the city is home to the biennial Festival of Hue, an event hugely popular among both locals and tourists.

No Vietnam holiday can ignore the country’s incredible landscape, and travellers may wish to head north to Sapa to experience some spectacular mountainous scenery. Considered the destination in north-west Vietnam, Sapa is home to mist-surrounded peaks, precariously-placed rice terraces and valley-dwelling tribal people.

With such an array of Vietnam holidays to choose from, you’ll be sure to find your niche – whether it’s a cultural city break, a martial arts-inspired fitness trip or an exploration of the country’s diverse and beautiful landscape.