Martial Arts Overview

Karate

• Originated in Ryukyu Kingdom (now Japan)
• Influenced by Chinese Kung Fu
• Styles include:
  • Striking techniques: punching, kicking, knee and elbow strikes
  • Open hand techniques, e.g., knife hands
• Philosophy: physical training + mental discipline + moral character
• Training includes forms, sparring, self-defense
• Belt system: white to black

Taekwondo

• Korean martial art focusing on high and fast kicks
• Philosophy: unites body, mind, life to promote peace
• Recognized for:
  • Head-height kicks
  • Jumping, spinning kicks
• Olympic sport since 2000

Aikido

• Developed in early 20th century in Japan
• Emphasizes using opponent's momentum against them
• Techniques: throws, joint locks

Muay Thai

• Known as "The Art of Eight Limbs"
• Origin: Thailand
• Involves fists, elbows, knees, shins
• Strong cultural significance
• Training includes physical conditioning, mental discipline
• Fights end with mutual respect

Judo

• Focuses on throws and ground techniques
• Developed by Jigoro Kano in Japan
• Principle: "Maximum efficiency, minimum effort"
• Combines competitive sport and self-defense

Jiujitsu

• Focuses on close combat
• Philosophy: using opponent's force against them
• Techniques: pins, joint locks, throws
• Originated to combat samurai

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

• Specializes in ground fighting and grappling
• Developed by a Brazilian family
• Effective for mixed martial arts

Kung Fu

• Collective term for Chinese martial arts
• Rich variety of techniques and philosophies
• Origin: Ancient China

Krav Maga

• Self-defense system for Israeli military
• Focuses on efficiency, instinctive movements
• Techniques from boxing, wrestling, judo, karate
• No competitions (focus on real-world threats)

Capoeira

• Afro-Brazilian martial art combining dance, acrobatics, music
• Developed by African slaves in Brazil
• Focuses on kicks, spins, creativity

Wing Chun

• Style of Kung Fu
• Known for close-range combat, quick punches

Boxing

• Focuses on punch combinations, footwork, head movement
• Known as "The Sweet Science"
• Modern sport from ancient civilizations

Kickboxing

• Combines elements of karate and Western boxing

Sambo

• Soviet-developed combat sport
• Includes techniques from judo, wrestling

Silat

• Southeast Asian martial arts
• Incorporates strikes, grappling, weaponry

Tai Chi

• Chinese martial art practiced for health benefits

Savate

• French boxing with graceful kicking techniques

Eskrima

• Filipino martial art focusing on weapons-based fighting

Kyokushin Karate

• Known for rigorous training and full-contact sparring

Wushu

• Modern Chinese martial art with fluid, acrobatic movements

Wrestling

• Ancient form of combat
• Includes various global styles

Taekkyeon

• Traditional Korean martial art

Systema

• Russian martial art rooted in military techniques
• Emphasizes relaxation, breathing

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)

• Combines techniques from various martial arts
• Modern sport emerged in early 1990s

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