The term martial arts refers to all of the various systems of training for combat that have been arranged or systematized. Generally, these different systems or styles are all designed for one purpose: physically defeating opponents and defending against threats. In fact, the word ‘martial’ derives from the name Mars, who was the Roman god of war.
According to legend, an Indian monk named Bodhidharma facilitated the transmission of Chan (China) or Zen (Japan) to China when he moved to southern China. His teachings lent a lot to martial arts philosophies like humility and restraint that continue even today. In fact, some have credited Bodhidharma with the initiation of Shaolin martial arts, though this assertion has been discredited by many.
Types of Martial Arts: Generally, martial arts can be broken down into five distinct categories: Stand-up or striking styles, grappling styles, low impact styles, weapons based styles, and MMA (A Hybrid Sports Style). Along with this, the emergence of MMA has caused quite a bit of mixing of styles in recent years to the point that a lot of dojos don’t look quite the same as they used to. Regardless, below are some of the more well-known styles.
Striking or Stand-Up Styles
- Boxing
- Karate
- Krav Maga
- Kung Fu
- Kickboxing
- Tae Kwon Do
Grappling or Ground Fighting Styles
- Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
- Russian Sambo
- Shootfighting
- Wrestling
Throwing or Takedown Styles
- Aikido
- Judo
- Hapkido
- Shuai Jiao
Weapons Based Styles
Low Impact or Meditative Styles
- Baguazhang
- Tai Chi
- Chi Gong based styles
MMA- A Hybrid Sports Style
Read more at About.com
