When it comes to fitness, self-defense, and discipline, martial arts and combat sports set the bar high. Such practices developed throughout the centuries incorporating elements of tradition and technique. Even if you are a complete novice or an armchair warrior, knowing about the most common disciplines may motivate you to get started. Click here to find out which one may suit you best!
Martial Arts and Combat Sports
There are different types of Martial arts and combat sports which serve different purposes. Here is a list of the ten main martial arts that you might want to consider:
1. Karate
Karate is a form of martial art that is said to have begun in Japan. The discipline promotes the use of strikes in the form of punches, kicks and open-hand techniques. For fans of self-defense and physical training, this is a great discipline.
2. Judo
Judging from its popularity Judo is particularly well-known for its throws and grapples. And Judo does teach you to use the power of the opponent to your advantage. It is an Olympic sport and accentuates strength and balance.
3. Taekwondo
Another form of a Korean martial art is known as Taekwondo which features fast, high, and spinning kicks. It places emphasis on speed and agility while developing endurance and stamina.
4. Boxing
Leaving aside the violent aspect of it, boxing or pugilism is known as the sweet science. Another popular Indian sport form that trains punches, footwork, and movement while defending. This is an extremely beneficial exercise for the heart and lungs.
5. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)
This martial art is rooted in ground fighting, which permits the smaller fighter to apply leverage and technique to outmaneuver their larger opponent, making it perfect for MMA practitioners.
6. Muay Thai
Thai boxing is the alternate name of Muay Thai and it’s a combat sport that indulges punches, kicks, elbows, and knee strikes. This sport is perfect for self-defense battling requiring stamina.
7. Kung Fu
Kung fu is derived from historical China and is defined by flowing movements and striking, with its foundation in reasoning, and it is an adaptive creative form of artwork to promote tenacity and restraint.
8. Wrestling
Wrestling is one of the oldest forms of combat sport that involves grappling holds, pinning and takedown. This activity is beneficial for building core body strength as well as stamina.
9. Krav Maga
Krav Maga is an Israeli martial art that revolves around real-world situations. It is an amalgamation of many combat techniques that work towards disarming and finishing a threat.
10. Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)
MMA is one of the fastest-growing sports due to its wider popularity, even though it is a mix of grappling and striking that involves different disciplines of martial arts.
Benefits of Learning Martial Arts and Combat Sports
- Physical Fitness: What stems from combat sports is strength, agility, and endurance making them physically fit.
- Mental Resilience: Intensive focus, determination, and confidence – traits which are gained through training and practice.
- Self-Defense: Once you have mastered the techniques, you will be prepared for and equipped to deal with most situations.
Choosing the Right Discipline
The target for one’s training is a determinant factor for one’s best martial art. Be it fitness, or competition, an understanding of the styles can cater for that decision. Trial classes are available to beginners to assist them in making a decision.
Ready to Begin?
Learning martial arts is about skills, yes, but it is more a process of learning about who you are, and who you want to be. Whether it’s Judo or Karate or Mixed Martial Arts the options are limitless.
Try Casino Meter to help you take the first step in one of these disciplines. You would realize that with the right focus and practice, martial art or combat sports are exponentially opens to you.