HOW MANY STYLES OF MARTIAL ARTS ARE THERE?
Martial arts is an umbrella term for a practice that comprises hundreds of styles or types of art. These practices come from different places, and some are introduced by individual teachers or masters. Each style has its own techniques, forms, principles, and so on. Hence, when you are looking to practice martial arts, you need to know the various martial arts styles and which ones will work for you.
Check out the various martial arts below and some of the factors that differentiate them.
Striking or Stand-up Martial Arts Styles
Striking and stand-up martial arts styles involve moves like kicking, punching, blocking, and using your feet, knees, and elbows. Your teacher determines how much you can learn with this style. But if you want to fight like a martial artist, striking and stand-up styles are best. Here are some examples of striking and stand-up martial arts:
- Tang Soo Do
- Boxing
- Capoeira
- Kickboxing
- Karate
- Kung Fu
- Muay Thai
- Krav Maga
- Tae Kwon Do
Throwing or Take-Down Martial Arts
You’ve likely seen this several times in the movies or even a martial art school. Being able to take down an opponent easily is an impressive skill. It can be a valuable ability for self-defense. Martial arts styles that involve throws and takedowns include
- Hapkido
- Judo
- Shuai Jiao
- Aikido
Grappling or Ground-Fighting Martial Arts
Grappling or ground fighting martial arts is quite similar to throwing or takedown styles. While they are not exactly the same, both teach a little of each other. Grappling styles teach you to achieve dominance in a confrontation and hold your opponent into submission. Examples of martial arts grappling include
- Sumo
- Wrestling
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
- Catch wrestling
- Luta Livre
- Russian Sambo
Low-impact or Meditative Styles
Not everyone wants to learn martial arts to fight. Some people want to achieve body fitness, a sound mind, and a healthy lifestyle. These martial arts styles that have low-impact and meditative qualities can still be used for self-defense when needed. They include
- Tai Chi
- Chi Gong-based styles
- Baguazhang
Weapon use Martial Arts Styles
It is no secret that most martial arts, including those listed above, can use weapons. However, there are some martial arts styles that are more weapon-based than others. Examples of these are:
- Kendo
- Iaido
- Kali
Hybrid Fighting Styles
Traditional martial arts is a practice built on culture and techniques protected for generations. In recent times, several martial arts styles have been mixed with other fighting techniques for contests or other purposes. The most popular in this category is MMA. Mixed martial art is a combat sport mixing various martial arts styles. Other hybrid martial arts are Ninjutsu, Shootfighting, and Jeet Kune Do.
Even More Martial Arts Styles that Exist Include
- Aikijujitsu – a sub-genre of Jujutsu
- American Kenpo – a hybrid martial arts style
- Bajutsu – originating from Japan, Bajutsu is focused on military equestrianism.
- Chun Kuk Do – a hybrid martial arts created by popular star Chuck Norris
- Eagle Claw Kung Fu – these are Chinese martial arts involving gripping techniques
- Gungsol or Gungdo – it’s originated from Korea and focused on archery
For children, karate is what you may think of. However, the actual practice that is most popular is Kung Fu. In fact, in the recent remake of The Karate Kid from a few years back, Jackie Chan’s character is actually teaching Kung Fu to Jaden Smith’s character.
If you’re ready to get a full mind and body workout – consider joining our martial arts school today.
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