Different Types Of Martial Arts

At the heart of all the different types of martial arts is a system of practices that ready the student for combat. In some cases it is hand to hand combat, while in other instances it involves the use of weaponry. Unlike other forms of fight practice, traditionally practiced combat readiness has a code of conduct that participants must obey. Depending on the level of physical fitness and interest, the different types of martial arts appeal to a varied clientele.

Grappling Based Martial Arts. There are different types of martial arts that rely heavily on hand to hand combat and grappling. Most famous are Judo and Jiu-Jitsu. Lesser known disciplines include Aikido and the Icelandic sport of Glima. These sports are not good for the athlete who does not like to get too much into the personal space of others.

Striking and Kicking Martial Arts. First and foremost among these different types of martial arts is Karate. The goal of the exercises is to literally keep the sparring partner at arm’s or leg’s length. Other disciplines are Taekwondo, Kickboxing or China’s Wing Chun. These sports require strong leg muscles in addition to physically powerful upper arms.

Weapons Use. The different types of martial arts associated with weapons use include most famously Kendo. Based on the Japanese art of Samurai sword-fighting, practitioners need to invest in good-quality gear before starting their exercises. Another weapons-based martial art is the Filipino Eskrima. The main weapon used in this discipline is the rattan stick.

When choosing from the different types of martial arts, the would-be athlete will do well to visit a variety of gyms to get a feel for the sports and also for the way they are being taught. This is especially important in a sport that involves a potentially costly investment in gear, such as Kendo.