Description of Styles
Martial Arts are as old as civilization. Every culture throughout history developed a method of fighting as a means to confront aggression. Notably, China, Okinawa and Japan, through the centuries, refined their combat techniques into an art. Today these arts are practiced to develop physical and mental well-being and to build one’s character.
There are many styles of martial arts, and many branches within each style, but basically they can be broken down into two main categories: Striking and Grappling.
Major Striking Systems
Karate, meaning “empty hand” in Japanese, has developed over millennia into an art form which analyzes body mechanics to efficiently generate and focus power. It emphasizes strong stances and powerful strikes, but also incorporates kicks, throws and joint locks. It carries a philosophy of maximum effort in training, perfection of character and self-control. The four major styles of karate in the world are Goju-ryu, Shito-ryu, Shotokan and Wado-ryu.
Kung Fu is a Chinese martial art based on the movements of animals. It is considered a “soft” or “internal” style because the techniques are smooth and graceful with no discernible exertion of hard power. Kung fu is the oldest of all the Asian martial arts. Other popular Chinese styles include Chi-kung, Wu Shu, Wing Chun, Tai chi and Shaolin.
Taekwondo is a Korean sport which was developed about fifty years ago. Its emphasis is on acrobatic kicks and tournament competition. In 1992, Tae Kwon Do was introduced as a sport in the Olympic Games. Other popular Korean martial arts include Hapkido, Kuk Sool Wan, Moo Duk Kwan and Tang Soo Do.
Major Grappling Systems
Ju-Jitsu is a method of empty hand fighting utilizing takedowns, joint locks and chokes. Japanese samurai developed this art to supplement their training with swords in case they were disarmed in battle.
Judo is the art of throwing and grappling, also incorporating joint locks and chokes. It was adapted from jujitsu in the late 19th century by eliminating its most brutal techniques so that it could be practiced safely as a sport. It uses the principles of balance and leverage and the efficient use of energy. Judo is the first Asian martial art to be included in the Olympic Games.
Aikido is an esoteric and non-aggressive art descended from ju-jitsu. It focuses on using an opponent’s momentum, power and energy against him.