Rest assured, as long as you are training at a good school, you will easily know which martial arts style is right for you.<\/p>\n
What is Martial Arts?<\/strong><\/h3>\nReal Martial Arts are not just a simple sport or fitness activity. When practiced fully you can embark on an amazing journey that can turn into a complete lifestyle\u00a0shift. This\u00a0will\u00a0improve\u00a0so many aspects of your physical, mental, and emotional life.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Of course, you can take it just as a normal sport. Which you can use to practice, exercise, get in shape, and even\u00a0learn how to defend yourself along the way.\u00a0<\/p>\n
But\u00a0if you take it as what it really\u00a0is,\u00a0a discipline, and a way of life,\u00a0it will give you balance in both physical and mental health. You will also get to know yourself too. Other sports are not\u00a0designed\u00a0with this depth in mind.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Which styles aren\u2019t for you (or anyone)?<\/strong><\/h4>\nIt\u2019s also important to know,\u00a0when a Martial Arts\u00a0School is good and when it isn\u2019t. For that,\u00a0take a look\u00a0at\u00a0one of our other blogs on this topic\u00a0\u2013\u00a05 Signs\u00a0<\/a>Of\u00a0A Bad Martial Ars School<\/a>.<\/p>\nA bad Martial Arts experience can even put the most enthusiastic off. Don\u2019t end your journey early by choosing the wrong place.<\/p>\n
But where should you\u00a0start? What discipline or\u00a0Martial Arts\u00a0style should you start with?\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Well, in this blog, we\u2019ll try to answer that question, and hopefully at the end of it, you will have enough information to make your decision.\u00a0<\/p>\n
So, let\u2019s start with the basics\u2026<\/p>\n
How Many\u00a0Martial Arts\u00a0Styles & Disciplines Are There?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\nThe short answer to this question would be, there\u2019s\u00a0too many to count them all.\u00a0For example, in Kung Fu, there hundreds of different styles, each with their own sets of techniques and approaches.<\/p>\n
Before we get into specifics of which Martial Art is right for you, here is an overview of some of the most popular Eastern\u00a0Martial Arts. So you can decide if these Martial Arts styles might be one that you choose.<\/p>\n
Chinese Martial Arts\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\nFirst up, we\u2019ve got one of the most ancient Martial Arts on the planet,\u00a0Kung Fu.<\/p>\n
With hundreds of different styles, that can be grouped in:<\/p>\n
Northern Chinese Martial Arts Styles<\/h4>\n
Also known as \u201cLong Fist<\/a>\u201d style, focuses more on aesthetics, kicks, legwork, and acrobatics.<\/p>\nIt is said that, historically, the Chinese in the north are taller on average than the southern Chinese. Many say that having longer bodies and limbs,\u00a0would eventually lead\u00a0others\u00a0into developing a fighting style that would exploit these physical advantages.\u00a0They thought\u00a0higher kicks, deeply extended postures, and quicker, more fluid transitions\u00a0would suit their bodies better.<\/p>\n
Northern China also has a much rockier terrain, and\u00a0the\u00a0constant climbing up and down hills would be part of their training routine,\u00a0to\u00a0strengthen the legs over time.<\/p>\n
Jet Li\u2019s Martial Arts style is a good example of the Northern Chinese style. The actor and Martial Artist has trained in both Northern and Southern styles, but he is best known for his Northern techniques from the Martial Art style called Wushu.<\/p>\n
Southern Chinese Martial Arts Styles\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\nCompared with their Northern counterparts, many say that Southern Chinese people, have smaller bodies. It is said that this led to the development of their close-combat techniques.<\/p>\n
Different physical builds naturally lead toward different athletic expressions. The southern climate is muddier, hotter, and wetter than the rest of the country, so\u00a0Martial\u00a0Artists from the south\u00a0favoured\u00a0styles with stronger and firmer stances.<\/p>\n
Southern styles became very external, or hard styles. Hands replaced weapons so that each strike had to do as much damage as possible. Kicks were mostly restricted to striking below the waist. In the south, the terrain was flatter, with more open spaces.<\/p>\n
As an example,\u00a0the famous Martial Artist and Actor\u00a0Jackie Chan, trained in\u00a0many styles,\u00a0and\u00a0focused\u00a0more in the Southern techniques (especially in his\u00a0films from the\u00a01980s).<\/p>\n
Similarities between Northern and Southern Chinese Styles\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\nAlthough those two styles are different, we find similarities in\u00a0both of them, and we can even find styles that merges both northern and southern techniques.<\/p>\n
With striking, grappling, acrobatics, and weapons techniques, Kung Fu is one of the disciplines with a larger range of techniques and styles. What also makes it a thorough discipline, is that it takes years of practice to master.<\/p>\n
Japanese Martial Arts<\/h3>\n
Similar to\u00a0China, there is an extensive history of Martial Arts in Japan. Some of their most famous styles include:<\/p>\n
Karate Styles<\/h4>\n
With four major styles, this discipline features a more rigid and strong style, with more linear stances and techniques:<\/p>\n
\u2013\u00a0Shotokan-ryu<\/strong>: Utilizing wide stances and linear methods, this form enables students to deliver impressive strikes in a quick and efficient manner using the hands, elbows, knees and feet.<\/p>\n\u2013\u00a0Goju-ryu<\/strong>: Comprised of formidable counter-strike movements in the offensive positions and soft and circular blocks in the defensive positions.<\/p>\n\u2013\u00a0Wado-ryu:<\/strong> Rather than focusing on contact sparring, it teaches students how to move the body to avoid attacks. As a way of distinguishing itself from other karate styles, this fluid form of karate uses shorter stances compared to other ones.<\/p>\n\u2013\u00a0Shito-ryu:<\/strong> This focuses on landing powerfully accurate strikes. A high emphasis is placed on technique in this style, as evidenced by the fifty katas students learn, which are predetermined moves for attacks and defense that student must perfect.\u00a0<\/p>\nKickboxing Style<\/h4>\n
Combines aspects of Karate with Muay Thai techniques. This multi-range combat style uses punches, kicks, elbows and knees. These can vary from grappling to long-distance range strikes.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Judo Style\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\nWith throwing and grappling techniques, the aim of this discipline, is to lock and immobilize the opponent. Judo practitioners typically devote a portion of each practice session to train \u201cbreak-falls\u201d, in order that the throwing techniques can be practiced without significant risk of injury.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Aikido Style\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\nThe techniques are taught to redirect the opponent\u2019s attack momentum, using it against them. This redirection of force also protects their attackers from injury.\u00a0
Because a substantial portion of this discipline consists of throws, beginners learn how to safely fall or roll. The specific techniques for attack include both strikes and grabs; the techniques for defense consist of throws and pins. After basic techniques are learned, students study freestyle defense against multiple opponents, and techniques with weapons.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Iaido & Kendo Styles<\/h4>\n
The two more popular disciplines of Martial Arts with swords.\u00a0
The first one, is a more traditional discipline where they practice with a \u201ciaitou\u201d which looks and feels much like a proper katana (Japanese sword), but the blade has no edge. Where in Kendo, they use a \u201cshinai\u201d, a bamboo sword, and protective equipment.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Thai and Cambodian Martial Arts\u00a0<\/h3>\n
While so close, geographically, many Asian countries have such varying styles of Martial Arts. Many of which are deeply ingrained in the culture.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Muay Thai and Bokator<\/strong><\/h4>\nBoth use stand-up striking, along with various clinching techniques. The difference between these two, is that Bokator has a traditional approach.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Bokator follows a belt system and you will learn movements, forms, and techniques in order.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Korean Martial Arts\u00a0<\/h3>\n
The most widely popular form of Korean Martial Arts is Tae-Kwon-Do. Tae-Kwon-Do is one Martial Arts to appear at the Olympics. This is great news for Martial Arts. However, it is important when we start to compete in the arts, that we maintain their original purpose, which is not to compete in them purely as a sport.<\/p>\n
Tae-Kwon-Do Style<\/strong><\/h4>\nA\u00a0discipline with emphasis on head-height kicks, jumping and spinning kicks, and fast kicking techniques. In fact, World Taekwondo sparring competitions award additional points for strikes that incorporate spinning kicks, kicks to the head, or both.\u00a0<\/p>\n
To facilitate fast, turning kicks, Taekwondo generally adopts stances that are narrower and taller than the broader, wide stances used by Martial Arts such as karate.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Martial Arts From Around The World<\/h3>\n
Besides the main and popular disciplines, that we just mention, there are hundreds more from all around the globe,\u00a0Capoeira<\/strong>\u00a0from Brazil,\u00a0Krav Maga<\/strong>\u00a0from Israel,\u00a0Arnis<\/strong>\u00a0or\u00a0Kali<\/strong>\u00a0from the Philippines, among others\u2026\u00a0<\/p>\nSo, as you can see, there are many different disciplines, each of them with their own set of styles.<\/p>\n
But which Martial Arts style should you choose?<\/p>\n
Although, now you are armed with this information, it may seem like you are more lost than when we started. Bear with me for a bit, and let\u2019s continue to the next point, where we can start weighing our options\u2026\u00a0<\/p>\n
Which One Should I Try First?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\nNo that you have a good idea of what\u2019s out there you can make a more informed choice.<\/p>\n
Again, the answer to this question will depend on your preferences, personality, and energy.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Martial Arts skills you can learn<\/strong><\/h3>\nMartial Arts are not one dimensional. As you are starting to learn they come in all forms, purposes and backgrounds.<\/p>\n
You\u2019ll find some that are built around self defence, others around theatre. Here are some helpful questions that you can ask yourself\u2026<\/p>\n
Do I want to practice more combat or self defence?\u00a0<\/p>\n
Would I like to learn acrobatics?\u00a0<\/p>\n
Or even how to use different types of Weapons?\u00a0<\/p>\n
Finding your own style<\/strong><\/h4>\nThe best way of knowing what discipline and style suits you best, is to\u00a0actually try\u00a0it out and see.<\/p>\n
This isn\u2019t always easy as time, money and effort play a part in trying out what\u2019s on the market. But, if you are fortunate enough to have the luxury, and are interested in multiple styles go a sek out the best in your area. It won\u2019t take long for you to decide where you want to start.<\/p>\n
In my experience, I\u2019ve\u00a0realised\u00a0that, even if you do your research, read books, watch videos and blogs on the topic\u2026 You will never actually know, until you experience it directly. Even if you have never tried any Martial Arts before, you already have your own style, you just need to find it by getting to know yourself.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Martial Arts Stereotypes…<\/strong><\/h5>\nAnother thing to consider when you choose a discipline and style, is not letting yourself be deceived by stereotypes that, for example, suggest that if you are really tall, you won\u2019t be good in a speed-based style.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Although it may influence how comfortable you may feel with one style or another, the size and type of your body is not a decisive factor to hold onto.\u00a0I\u2019ve met many\u00a0Martial Artists that were over 6-foot tall, using acrobatic, and speed-based styles.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t![\"MMA-Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/fitroots.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/MMA-Fighter-904x1024.png\")
\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n
I’ve also met people who are skinny and light but turned out to feel as heavy as a 10-story building.\u00a0<\/p>\n
In a way, your energy and style can impact your technique or opponent more than your body type or size.\u00a0<\/p>\n
So, back to the question…<\/p>\n
Which Martial Art Should I Start With?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\nEliminate the styles that\u00a0don\u2019t<\/strong>\u00a0appeal to you. There really is no point trying everything at this point to \u2018just see\u2019.\u00a0<\/p>\nIf, for example, you don\u2019t really want to learn how to use a sword, then you know neither Kendo nor\u00a0Iaido, are the disciplines you are looking for.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n
Sometimes is easier to know what we don\u2019t like, than what we do like.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Hopefully after figuring that out, you\u2019ll have a shorter list of disciplines to go through.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Shortlist your options\u2026<\/strong><\/h3>\nThen think about what excites you. If you want to learn both punching and kicking techniques, then find a striking art. This should give you a shortlist of what to tackle first!<\/p>\n
It\u2019s also important to know,\u00a0when a Martial Arts\u00a0School is good and when it isn\u2019t. For that,\u00a0take a look\u00a0at\u00a0one of our other blogs on this topic\u00a0\u2013\u00a05 Signs\u00a0<\/a>Of\u00a0A Bad Martial Ars School<\/a>.<\/p>\n A bad Martial Arts experience can even put the most enthusiastic off. Don\u2019t end your journey early by choosing the wrong place.<\/p>\n But where should you\u00a0start? What discipline or\u00a0Martial Arts\u00a0style should you start with?\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Well, in this blog, we\u2019ll try to answer that question, and hopefully at the end of it, you will have enough information to make your decision.\u00a0<\/p>\n So, let\u2019s start with the basics\u2026<\/p>\n The short answer to this question would be, there\u2019s\u00a0too many to count them all.\u00a0For example, in Kung Fu, there hundreds of different styles, each with their own sets of techniques and approaches.<\/p>\n Before we get into specifics of which Martial Art is right for you, here is an overview of some of the most popular Eastern\u00a0Martial Arts. So you can decide if these Martial Arts styles might be one that you choose.<\/p>\n First up, we\u2019ve got one of the most ancient Martial Arts on the planet,\u00a0Kung Fu.<\/p>\n With hundreds of different styles, that can be grouped in:<\/p>\n Also known as \u201cLong Fist<\/a>\u201d style, focuses more on aesthetics, kicks, legwork, and acrobatics.<\/p>\n It is said that, historically, the Chinese in the north are taller on average than the southern Chinese. Many say that having longer bodies and limbs,\u00a0would eventually lead\u00a0others\u00a0into developing a fighting style that would exploit these physical advantages.\u00a0They thought\u00a0higher kicks, deeply extended postures, and quicker, more fluid transitions\u00a0would suit their bodies better.<\/p>\n Northern China also has a much rockier terrain, and\u00a0the\u00a0constant climbing up and down hills would be part of their training routine,\u00a0to\u00a0strengthen the legs over time.<\/p>\n Jet Li\u2019s Martial Arts style is a good example of the Northern Chinese style. The actor and Martial Artist has trained in both Northern and Southern styles, but he is best known for his Northern techniques from the Martial Art style called Wushu.<\/p>\n Compared with their Northern counterparts, many say that Southern Chinese people, have smaller bodies. It is said that this led to the development of their close-combat techniques.<\/p>\n Different physical builds naturally lead toward different athletic expressions. The southern climate is muddier, hotter, and wetter than the rest of the country, so\u00a0Martial\u00a0Artists from the south\u00a0favoured\u00a0styles with stronger and firmer stances.<\/p>\n Southern styles became very external, or hard styles. Hands replaced weapons so that each strike had to do as much damage as possible. Kicks were mostly restricted to striking below the waist. In the south, the terrain was flatter, with more open spaces.<\/p>\n As an example,\u00a0the famous Martial Artist and Actor\u00a0Jackie Chan, trained in\u00a0many styles,\u00a0and\u00a0focused\u00a0more in the Southern techniques (especially in his\u00a0films from the\u00a01980s).<\/p>\n Although those two styles are different, we find similarities in\u00a0both of them, and we can even find styles that merges both northern and southern techniques.<\/p>\n With striking, grappling, acrobatics, and weapons techniques, Kung Fu is one of the disciplines with a larger range of techniques and styles. What also makes it a thorough discipline, is that it takes years of practice to master.<\/p>\n Similar to\u00a0China, there is an extensive history of Martial Arts in Japan. Some of their most famous styles include:<\/p>\n With four major styles, this discipline features a more rigid and strong style, with more linear stances and techniques:<\/p>\n \u2013\u00a0Shotokan-ryu<\/strong>: Utilizing wide stances and linear methods, this form enables students to deliver impressive strikes in a quick and efficient manner using the hands, elbows, knees and feet.<\/p>\n \u2013\u00a0Goju-ryu<\/strong>: Comprised of formidable counter-strike movements in the offensive positions and soft and circular blocks in the defensive positions.<\/p>\n \u2013\u00a0Wado-ryu:<\/strong> Rather than focusing on contact sparring, it teaches students how to move the body to avoid attacks. As a way of distinguishing itself from other karate styles, this fluid form of karate uses shorter stances compared to other ones.<\/p>\n \u2013\u00a0Shito-ryu:<\/strong> This focuses on landing powerfully accurate strikes. A high emphasis is placed on technique in this style, as evidenced by the fifty katas students learn, which are predetermined moves for attacks and defense that student must perfect.\u00a0<\/p>\n Combines aspects of Karate with Muay Thai techniques. This multi-range combat style uses punches, kicks, elbows and knees. These can vary from grappling to long-distance range strikes.\u00a0<\/p>\n With throwing and grappling techniques, the aim of this discipline, is to lock and immobilize the opponent. Judo practitioners typically devote a portion of each practice session to train \u201cbreak-falls\u201d, in order that the throwing techniques can be practiced without significant risk of injury.\u00a0<\/p>\n The techniques are taught to redirect the opponent\u2019s attack momentum, using it against them. This redirection of force also protects their attackers from injury.\u00a0 The two more popular disciplines of Martial Arts with swords.\u00a0 While so close, geographically, many Asian countries have such varying styles of Martial Arts. Many of which are deeply ingrained in the culture.\u00a0<\/p>\n Both use stand-up striking, along with various clinching techniques. The difference between these two, is that Bokator has a traditional approach.\u00a0<\/p>\n Bokator follows a belt system and you will learn movements, forms, and techniques in order.\u00a0<\/p>\n The most widely popular form of Korean Martial Arts is Tae-Kwon-Do. Tae-Kwon-Do is one Martial Arts to appear at the Olympics. This is great news for Martial Arts. However, it is important when we start to compete in the arts, that we maintain their original purpose, which is not to compete in them purely as a sport.<\/p>\n A\u00a0discipline with emphasis on head-height kicks, jumping and spinning kicks, and fast kicking techniques. In fact, World Taekwondo sparring competitions award additional points for strikes that incorporate spinning kicks, kicks to the head, or both.\u00a0<\/p>\n To facilitate fast, turning kicks, Taekwondo generally adopts stances that are narrower and taller than the broader, wide stances used by Martial Arts such as karate.\u00a0<\/p>\n Besides the main and popular disciplines, that we just mention, there are hundreds more from all around the globe,\u00a0Capoeira<\/strong>\u00a0from Brazil,\u00a0Krav Maga<\/strong>\u00a0from Israel,\u00a0Arnis<\/strong>\u00a0or\u00a0Kali<\/strong>\u00a0from the Philippines, among others\u2026\u00a0<\/p>\n So, as you can see, there are many different disciplines, each of them with their own set of styles.<\/p>\n But which Martial Arts style should you choose?<\/p>\n Although, now you are armed with this information, it may seem like you are more lost than when we started. Bear with me for a bit, and let\u2019s continue to the next point, where we can start weighing our options\u2026\u00a0<\/p>\n No that you have a good idea of what\u2019s out there you can make a more informed choice.<\/p>\n Again, the answer to this question will depend on your preferences, personality, and energy.\u00a0<\/p>\n Martial Arts are not one dimensional. As you are starting to learn they come in all forms, purposes and backgrounds.<\/p>\n You\u2019ll find some that are built around self defence, others around theatre. Here are some helpful questions that you can ask yourself\u2026<\/p>\n Do I want to practice more combat or self defence?\u00a0<\/p>\n Would I like to learn acrobatics?\u00a0<\/p>\n Or even how to use different types of Weapons?\u00a0<\/p>\n The best way of knowing what discipline and style suits you best, is to\u00a0actually try\u00a0it out and see.<\/p>\n This isn\u2019t always easy as time, money and effort play a part in trying out what\u2019s on the market. But, if you are fortunate enough to have the luxury, and are interested in multiple styles go a sek out the best in your area. It won\u2019t take long for you to decide where you want to start.<\/p>\n In my experience, I\u2019ve\u00a0realised\u00a0that, even if you do your research, read books, watch videos and blogs on the topic\u2026 You will never actually know, until you experience it directly. Even if you have never tried any Martial Arts before, you already have your own style, you just need to find it by getting to know yourself.\u00a0<\/p>\n Another thing to consider when you choose a discipline and style, is not letting yourself be deceived by stereotypes that, for example, suggest that if you are really tall, you won\u2019t be good in a speed-based style.\u00a0<\/p>\n Although it may influence how comfortable you may feel with one style or another, the size and type of your body is not a decisive factor to hold onto.\u00a0I\u2019ve met many\u00a0Martial Artists that were over 6-foot tall, using acrobatic, and speed-based styles.\u00a0<\/p>\n \t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t I’ve also met people who are skinny and light but turned out to feel as heavy as a 10-story building.\u00a0<\/p>\n In a way, your energy and style can impact your technique or opponent more than your body type or size.\u00a0<\/p>\n So, back to the question…<\/p>\n Eliminate the styles that\u00a0don\u2019t<\/strong>\u00a0appeal to you. There really is no point trying everything at this point to \u2018just see\u2019.\u00a0<\/p>\n If, for example, you don\u2019t really want to learn how to use a sword, then you know neither Kendo nor\u00a0Iaido, are the disciplines you are looking for.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Sometimes is easier to know what we don\u2019t like, than what we do like.\u00a0<\/p>\n Hopefully after figuring that out, you\u2019ll have a shorter list of disciplines to go through.\u00a0<\/p>\n Then think about what excites you. If you want to learn both punching and kicking techniques, then find a striking art. This should give you a shortlist of what to tackle first!<\/p>\nHow Many\u00a0Martial Arts\u00a0Styles & Disciplines Are There?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Chinese Martial Arts\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Northern Chinese Martial Arts Styles<\/h4>\n
Southern Chinese Martial Arts Styles\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Similarities between Northern and Southern Chinese Styles\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Japanese Martial Arts<\/h3>\n
Karate Styles<\/h4>\n
Kickboxing Style<\/h4>\n
Judo Style\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Aikido Style\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Because a substantial portion of this discipline consists of throws, beginners learn how to safely fall or roll. The specific techniques for attack include both strikes and grabs; the techniques for defense consist of throws and pins. After basic techniques are learned, students study freestyle defense against multiple opponents, and techniques with weapons.\u00a0<\/p>\nIaido & Kendo Styles<\/h4>\n
The first one, is a more traditional discipline where they practice with a \u201ciaitou\u201d which looks and feels much like a proper katana (Japanese sword), but the blade has no edge. Where in Kendo, they use a \u201cshinai\u201d, a bamboo sword, and protective equipment.\u00a0<\/p>\nThai and Cambodian Martial Arts\u00a0<\/h3>\n
Muay Thai and Bokator<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Korean Martial Arts\u00a0<\/h3>\n
Tae-Kwon-Do Style<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Martial Arts From Around The World<\/h3>\n
Which One Should I Try First?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Martial Arts skills you can learn<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Finding your own style<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Martial Arts Stereotypes…<\/strong><\/h5>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\nWhich Martial Art Should I Start With?\u00a0<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Shortlist your options\u2026<\/strong><\/h3>\n