CardioStrike: Striking Out Heart Disease with Martial Arts

Through ‘CardioStrike’, we aimed to address the growing health and inclusion challenges linked to obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and low physical activity. The project sought to promote inclusi...

Through ‘CardioStrike’, we aimed to address the growing health and inclusion challenges linked to obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and low physical activity. The project sought to promote inclusion and diversity in martial arts by encouraging participation from individuals at risk of CVDs and from underrepresented groups (O1). We also aimed to foster lifelong learning through accessible martial arts education, enabling adults of all ages to gain new skills (Ο2). A key objective was to enhance participants’ physical and mental well-being by promoting regular activity, motivation, and self-confidence (Ο3). Finally, we aimed to strengthen martial arts instructors’ sensitivity and capacity to work inclusively with diverse populations, equipping them with tools to support vulnerable groups more effectively (Ο4).

The project was implemented through 5 interconnected activities. A1 covered overall project management, planning, monitoring, and coordination between partners. A2 included needs assessments through surveys and focus groups, allowing us to understand health literacy, physical activity levels, and instructors’ perceptions. A3 focused on developing the Wellness Hub, including the curriculum, training presentations, 12 educational videos, and an online platform hosting all resources. A4 delivered a three-day capacity-building training for martial arts instructors in North Macedonia on inclusion, mental health, nutrition, and supportive coaching methods. A5 consisted of dissemination, exploitation, stakeholder mapping, local events, and a hybrid final conference in Greece to showcase results and strengthen networks.

The project produced a series of concrete, measurable outputs. We created a full training curriculum, 12 educational videos, presentations, and an online Wellness Hub platform accessible to all. The needs assessment resulted in a focus group report and an infographic based on survey data. At least 20 instructors received in-depth training, improving their ability to apply inclusive practices in martial arts clubs. Local events and the final conference increased awareness and visibility at regional and European levels. Beyond outputs, the project strengthened cooperation among partners, improved participants' physical and mental well-being, and established a foundation for a sustainable European network promoting inclusive martial arts and cardiovascular health.