IntroductionMartial arts are systems of codified practices and traditions of training for combat. They may be studied for various reasons including combat skills, fitness, self-defense, sport, self-cultivation/meditation, mental discipline, character development and building self-confidence, or any combination of the above.
There is a great diversity and abundance of martial arts but, broadly speaking, martial arts share a common goal: to defeat a person physically or to defend oneself from physical threat. In some martial arts there is also a sense of spirituality.
While each style has unique facets that makes it different from other martial arts common characteristic of martial arts is the systemization of fighting techniques. One common method of training, particularly in the Asian martial arts, is the form or kata; these are sets or routines of techniques that are performed alone, or sometimes with a partner.
The word 'martial' derives from the name of Mars, the Roman god of war. A practitioner of martial arts is referred to as a martial artist.
Scope
Martial arts vary widely, and may focus on strikes, grappling, or weapons training. Below is a list of examples that make extensive use of these areas; it is not an exhaustive list of arts, nor are these necessarily the only areas covered by the art:
Some arts have a very specific focus while others, such as Mixed martial arts, are more syncretic.
Some arts have a very specific focus while others, such as Mixed martial arts, are more syncretic.
Striking
Punching - Western Boxing, Shao-Lin Long Fist
Kicking - Capoeira, Savate, Taekwondo, Taekkyon
Other strikes (e.g. Elbows, knees, open-hand) - Karate, Muay Thai, Wing Chun
Grappling
Throwing - Glima, Judo, Shuai jiao, Jujutsu, Sambo, Kampfringen
Joint lock - Aikido, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Hapkido, Kampfringen
Pinning Techniques - Wrestling, Judo
Weaponry
Traditional Weaponry - Fencing, Gatka, Silambam, Kendo
Modern Weaponry - Eskrima, Jukendo, Jogo do Pau
Many martial arts, especially those from Asia, also teach side disciplines which pertain to medicinal practices. This is particularly prevalent in traditional Chinese martial arts which may teach bone-setting, qigong, acupuncture, acupressure (tui na), and other aspects of traditional Chinese medicine. Martial arts from places like India and Southeast Asia also teach side disciplines ayurveda and yoga.
The martial arts, though commonly associated with East Asian cultures, are by no means unique to this region. Throughout Europe there was an extensive system of combat martial arts, commonly referred to as Historical European martial arts, that existed until modern times and is now being reconstructed by numerous organizations. Native Americans have a tradition of open-handed martial arts that includes wrestling. Hawaiians have historically practiced arts featuring small and large joint manipulation. Savate is a French kicking style developed by sailors and street fighters. Capoeira's athletic movements were created in Brazil by slaves based on skills brought with them from Africa.
Many martial arts also strive to teach moral values and provide guidance for children who join the ranks of those learning the art. Many arts require those who achieve black belt or the equivalent to take an oath restricting the use of their knowledge. Martial artists may also receive specific instruction in mental and emotional discipline.
