Martial arts styles vary by region, purpose and practice. While many associate the martial arts as a mode of self-defense, some practices may have a combat purpose, and focus on healing and relaxation. Many forms of martial arts originated in Asian countries. However, other practices were created in South America, Africa and Europe, according to USAdojo.com.
Styles Using Weapons
Weapons-based martial arts styles involve training using a specific weapon or a number of weapons for self-defense. An example of this style is kendo, which uses a Japanese fencing sword to train for combat. When translated, kendo means "way of the sword," according to USAdojo.com. Kendo is a competitive sport, where participants fight in three to five minute matches. Other examples of martial arts styles using weapons include eskrima, goju-ryu and iaido, most of which utilize dagger or wooden sword work.
Strike Styles
This style of martial arts focuses on using blows to the body delivered by the hands and feet. Most are performed standing up, and boxing is even considered a category in martial arts strike styles. Others include martial arts practices popular in the United States, including karate, kung fu, tae kwon do and kickboxing. Krav maga, a martial arts system utilized by the Israeli Defense Forces, focuses on self defense and how to ward off a number of attacks, including those with guns.
Ground-Fighting
Wrestling is a category of martial arts that focuses on protecting one's self in ground combat. An example of this style is Brazilian jiu jitsu, which uses special techniques to bring a person to the ground and then a combination of chokes and holds to submit the opponent. Additional ground-fighting examples include Russian sambo and shootfighting.
Takedown
Takedown styles focus on the efforts and techniques that can bring an opponent down to the ground. One example includes judo, which emphasizes balance and even falling techniques to help a person safely fall to the ground during the takedown process. Takedown also uses chokes, elbow locks and throws. Judo also is considered part of the takedown martial arts family, meaning healthy self-esteem is emphasized. Additional takedown examples include aikido, hapkido and shuai jiao.
Meditative
While these styles emphasize techniques that may assist in combat, such as hand positioning, they also utilize slow, controlled movements in order to achieve spiritual benefits. An example of meditative style is tai chi, which uses slow, soft movements to improve concentration and reduce stress. Additional meditative martial arts examples are chi gong and baguazhang.
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