Although the roots of Japanese martial arts can be traced back to China, Japan has developed its own distinct fighting styles. From grappling to swordsmanship, each style generally has its own focus. Japanese martial arts have stood the test of time, and schools can be found in cities around the world. Some of the most popular styles are aikido, shotokan, judo and kendo.
Aikido
Many martial arts teach students to meet force with force. Aikido takes a different approach. This Japanese martial art is considered a "soft" style. Morihei Ueshiba, this style's founder, practiced several martial arts before developing aikido. He founded an art that combined the mind, body and spirit. Aikido redirects an opponent's force and uses it against him. For example, you can redirect the energy from a punch and turn it into a throwing technique. Expect to spend a lot of time tumbling on mats in an aikido class.
Shotokan
Unlike aikido, shotokan is considered a "hard" style of Japanese martial arts. Shotokan students execute powerful linear kicks, strikes and blocks. Shotokan's blocks are not only used for defense, but are also used to hurt an opponent's arm or leg. According to Shotokan Karate of America, this martial art combines elements of the original Okinawan karate styles. Shotokan students frequently practice kata to refine their techniques. When performing kata, you must execute prearranged movements while pretending to fight opponents. To improve fighting skills, shotokan students also spar with each other in classes and in tournaments.
Judo
Aikido and shotokan are stand-up styles, but expect to fight on the ground in judo. This Japanese martial art can teach you how to take down an opponent and make him submit. Judo teaches various types of chokeholds, pins and joint locks that are performed on the ground. This fighting style's techniques were influenced by the Japanese art of jujitsu. Judo's popularity made it an Olympic sport in 1964. Judo's grappling techniques are frequently used in Ultimate Fighting Championships.
Kendo
Kendo is Japanese sword fighting that is heavily influenced by the techniques of the samurai. Don't worry about getting your arm sliced off in a kendo class, however, as practitioners use a bamboo sword, called a shinai, to spar with each other in class. Students also wear traditional protective equipment, including a chest protector, gloves and headgear. The four main targets in kendo are the head, throat, forearm and torso. To score a point in a kendo match, you need to solidly strike one of these areas.
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