How to Choose a Martial Art

Martial arts are systems of techniques used for fighting. Use these guidelines to understand the differences among their various styles, and find the one that's right for you.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Martial Arts Supplies
• Martial Arts Uniforms
• Martial Arts Videos

1. Scan a martial arts encyclopedia (or try an Internet search engine) to gain a quick overview of martial arts styles.

2. Determine if the martial art is a "hard" or "soft" style. Offensive techniques, such as punching and kicking, indicate a hard style, which tends to be physically intense. Defensive techniques, such as blocking and redirecting, indicate a soft style, which can be less physically challenging and suited to older students and those with physical limitations. See "Tips" for examples.

3. Identify techniques as either striking or grappling. Striking is attacking with fists, feet, elbows and knees. Grappling uses joint locks and throws to control an attacker.

4. Delve into history to understand cultural differences. For instance, high kicks in Tae Kwon Do began as a way for foot soldiers to attack mounted soldiers. Does the legacy of any of the arts appeal to you more than others?

5. Create a summary table to compare and contrast your findings.

6. Assess your physical condition. Do you have any physical limitations that might affect your ability to practice a certain martial arts style?

7. Watch practitioners from the various styles that interest you before making a choice. Many schools have an observation area, so you can watch while a class is being taught. Ask permission first.

8. Summarize the information you have learned and match your preferences to a martial arts style that supports your physical state and long-term interest.

Tips & Warnings

• Aikido is a soft, grappling style suitable for older practitioners or those with physical limitations.
• Karate is a hard, striking style that includes weapons training such as nunchuks - short, baton-like handles linked together with a chain.
• Tae Kwon Do is a hard, striking style from Korea that also teaches joint locks and vital point striking.
• Jujitsu is a soft, grappling style that emphasizes using the least amount of force necessary to defeat an opponent.
• Kung Fu (also known as Wushu) can be hard or soft, striking or grappling: over 400 styles exist.
• Judo is a soft, grappling style based on Jujutsu; its purpose is to use a calm and serene mind to defeat an opponent.
• Tai Chi is a soft, defensive style that has strong philosophical principles, stressing harmony with nature and fellow humans.
• Consult a physician before beginning any exercise regimen. Remember, the practice of martial arts can be dangerous, so use caution at all times.
• If you have any condition which would impair or limit your ability to engage in physical activity, please consult a physician before attempting this activity.

Who Can Help:

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[bkcpisme]

on 12/11/2008 and also, Aikido is not, as you put it, a "grappling style."

[bkcpisme]

on 12/11/2008 FYI, Kung Fu and Wushu are not synonymous.

on 8/8/2006 I have been in the martial arts for months now and what I have heard from some of the tips on this website are based totally on presumptions that have been obtained from the movies. Karate for example literally means "empty hand," and in karate, weapons are not taught. Although in some karate classes Yamashe Ryu Kobudo is taught, which for those of you who don't know Japanese it is a weapons style.

on 8/8/2006 A great fighter does not necessarily make a great teacher. Some martial artists who reach the high ranks, or are champion fighters, open their own schools to make money like any other business venture. But the skill and talent of this person doesn't automatically make them a great teacher. Visit the school and ask if it is OK to observe a class or two. Is the Sifu (or Sensei) conveying his instruction to the students well? Are the students smiling and satisfied when they learn something? Does the school appear to be a center of friendship? Or is the master just screaming at everyone? Does he make the class warm up for 30 minutes in a 45 minute class? Do the students look tired, beaten, and confused when class is over? Does the master look disinterested - like he is just going through the same old routine? Is the sparring safe?

A good school should be a place where you learn a valuable skill as well as nurture new friendships.

on 7/20/2006 Before you start any martial art you must be willing to commit. If you don't you will not get all the benefits you can. There are some forms which will not help you in some situations. An example is when we learn self-defense in my Tae Kwon Do class, we've never gone over anything we could use if we are pinned to the ground. Basically do your homework before you get into it. It will really help.