Martial arts are types of combat that usually, but not always, involve no weapons. Although martial arts have originated in places all over the world, the best-known types are Asian forms that date back to ancient times. Although they share a general purpose of self-defense, Asian martial arts vary widely in emphasis, with some concentrating primarily on physical moves to use against an attacker and others focusing on mental, emotional and even spiritual issues.
Karate
The Japanese martial art karate, which means "empty hand’’ is a catch-all phrase for one of the oldest forms of self-defense. There are four main types of karate: Gojo-Ryu, Shito-Ryu, Shotokan, and Wado-Ryu. They all originated on the Japanese island of Okinawa. While there are differences in emphasis between the different forms, what makes them karate is an overall emphasis on strikes, punches, kicks and other forceful moves that allow combatants of smaller size defeat those who are larger and stronger.
Kung Fu
This Chinese martial art has its roots among Shaolin monks, and has evolved over some 5,000 years. Like karate, kung fu actually refers to many different systems or martial arts, but with some consistent themes. Unlike karate, kung fu relies not on quick, aggressive attack moves but rather on defensive blocks and moves that often resemble modern wrestling maneuvers. Kung fu stresses low, defensive positions, which rely largely on the strength of the person employing them.
Judo
Among the most mentally encompassing of the martial arts, judo is about more than just fighting. It’s a "lifestyle" martial art, with many adherents practicing it not for self-defense or competition but for physical and mental well-being. Judo is a Japanese discipline, and a modern off-shoot of the 19th-century art of jujitsu. The name means "gentle way," and it emphasizes turning an opponent’s strength against him with subtle evasive and adaptive moves designed to tire an opponent. The moves are often incorporated into solitary exercises.
Tae Kwon Do
Of Korean origin, tae kwon do,is the most popular martial art in the world today. It has structured national and global competitions, including an Olympic competition, and a thriving training market in the United States. It embodies some of the mental emphasis of judo, but with more focus on self-discipline than self-awareness. Its moves, which tend to be artful and graceful, are sometimes compared to modern dance, though the self-defense benefits are real.
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