Self Defense Martial Arts Explained

Self Defense Martial Arts Explained

People get into martial arts for various reasons. Some take it as a spectator sport, others an alternative for hands-on exercises while others make it a profession. Well other than being a sport, a great way to keep fit and a good way to make money, martial arts can be really useful when it comes to self-defense.

Well, one of the amazing aspects of martial arts in the huge array of styles that go under the same name. However, this large assortment can easily lead to confusion, especially when it comes to choosing a style that is best for you. Each and every martial art style incorporates its individual techniques, which can be employed in the real world self-defense. Well best martial art style depends on the individual as well as the situation.

When it comes to classifying martial arts, there are several tendencies that most of us follow. One is geographical classification; Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Western and so on. The second is distinguishing through labels like classical or traditional with modern arts. The third one is by separating into external and internal martial arts courses. Well, the criteria of classification style of martial arts are many, and this might leave you, even more, confused. However, there is one classification style I came across while doing my research that makes perfect sense. The best way to classify an art is through the primary purpose and function of every style. Martial arts can be best categorized in the following divisions:
Internal Martial Arts

Combat Sports

Performance Martial Arts

Weapons Martial Arts

Self Defense Martial Arts

Through the rest of this article, we shall focus on morden self defense kungfu in China that you should consider learning. Self-defense martial arts just like the rest of martial arts help you gain the skills to defend yourself in a real life threatening situation, they help you keep fit and can be a very entertaining hobby.

Top Self-Defense Martial Arts

1. Judo

Judo was developed by Kano Jigoro in Japan as a result of being bullied in his childhood. In judo, the primary aim is to use the strength of the opponent against them. It’s primary focus is set on throws that work on the ground rather than striking. This style incorporates submission style attacks like locks and chokes which are valuable for defending yourself.

2. Taekwondo

This is a style mainly known for the incorporation of kicks. Taekwondo combines both mental strength and physical skills. By practicing taekwondo, you gain stamina, balance, flexibility, speed and strength. The practice of this style flourished after the second world war when Japan stopped occupying Korea. Taekwondo is a martial art that is even practiced in the Olympics. This makes it the most popular martial art, practiced in over a hundred countries.

3. Kung Fu

This is an ideal self-defense style prominent in a lot of Hollywood movies. It’s ideally one of the oldest styles of martial arts that are ideal in self defense. It’s traditionally taught in Shaolin temples and incorporates virtues like respect, humility, patience as well trust.

There is other martial arts styles ideal for self defense: Kickboxing, Jujutsu, Akido and Karate just being a few honorable mentions. Regardless of the martial style you choose, keep in mind that succeeding all comes down to patience, commitment, practice along with choosing an excellent martial arts teacher.