More than 175 unique martial arts styles exist worldwide, spanning from ancient combat systems to modern hybrid disciplines. These fighting styles range from well-known practices like Karate and Taekwondo to rare systems like Zulu Stick Fighting and Bartitsu. Each martial art carries unique techniques, cultural origins, and training philosophies that serve different purposes from self-defense to spiritual growth.
The number continues to grow as new hybrid systems emerge and traditional arts evolve. What makes martial arts fascinating isn’t just the quantity but the diversity, some focus on striking, others on grappling, and many incorporate weapons or spiritual elements.
Let’s understand each martial arts style in detail.
A martial arts style qualifies as a distinct system when it has documented techniques, established training methods, and a traceable lineage. The style must demonstrate unique characteristics that separate it from other fighting systems.
Key defining factors include:
Origin and History: Each style develops from specific cultural, military, or spiritual contexts. Karate emerged from Okinawa, Japan, blending indigenous fighting with Chinese influences. Capoeira developed among enslaved Africans in Brazil, disguised as dance to avoid persecution.
Technical Framework: Styles differ based on their combat approach. Striking arts like Muay Thai emphasize punches, kicks, elbows, and knees. Grappling systems such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu focus on ground fighting and submissions.
Training Methodology: Each system employs different teaching methods. Traditional Japanese arts use kata (forms) for technical development. Modern combat sports emphasize live sparring and competitive application.
Philosophical Foundation: Many martial arts integrate mental and spiritual components. Tai Chi combines combat techniques with health benefits and meditative movement. Aikido emphasizes harmony and redirecting an opponent’s energy rather than meeting force with force.
Martial arts developed independently across cultures to address specific combat needs, environmental factors, and philosophical beliefs. Geographic isolation, cultural values, and historical circumstances shaped each system’s unique characteristics.
Several factors drove this diversity in martial arts:
Regional Adaptation: Different environments demanded specialized skills. Japanese sword arts evolved for armored samurai combat. Filipino Eskrima developed for tropical jungles where bladed weapons were common.
Military Requirements: Armed forces created fighting systems for specific battlefield scenarios. Krav Maga emerged from Israeli military needs for practical self-defense. The Marine Corps Martial Arts Program combines techniques for modern warfare situations.
Cultural Philosophy: Societies embedded their values into fighting systems. Chinese martial arts incorporate Taoist and Buddhist principles of balance and harmony. Japanese Budo arts emphasize discipline, respect, and personal development.
Weapon Availability: Local weapons influenced technique development. Okinawan Kobudo incorporates farming tools transformed into weapons. French Savate evolved from street fighting while wearing heavy boots.
Evolution and Innovation: Masters continually refined existing arts and created hybrid systems. Bruce Lee developed Jeet Kune Do by blending Wing Chun, Boxing, Fencing, and other styles. Mixed Martial Arts emerged by combining effective techniques from multiple disciplines.
Martial arts divide into five primary categories based on combat methodology: striking, grappling, weapons-based, hybrid, and spiritual arts. Each category serves different combat ranges and purposes.
Striking arts focus on hitting opponents using hands, feet, elbows, and knees. These systems maintain distance and deliver powerful blows to vulnerable targets.
Karate (Japan): Uses punches, kicks, and open-hand strikes with emphasis on linear power. Practitioners train through kata and kumite to develop precision and speed.
Taekwondo (Korea): Features dynamic kicking techniques with 80% kicks and 20% hand strikes. The art gained Olympic status in 2000, spreading to over 200 countries.
Muay Thai (Thailand): Employs eight striking points such as fists, elbows, knees, and shins for devastating attacks. Training includes conditioning to withstand powerful strikes.
Boxing (England): Concentrates purely on punching technique, footwork, and head movement. With 20 million global practitioners, boxing remains one of the most popular combat sports.
Kung Fu (China): Encompasses numerous substyles including Wing Chun, Shaolin, and Hung Ga. The art combines striking, forms practice, and philosophical principles, practiced by 50 million people worldwide.
Grappling systems focus on controlling, throwing, and submitting opponents through holds and locks. These arts excel in close-range combat and ground fighting.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Specializes in ground grappling and submission techniques where smaller practitioners can defeat larger opponents. The art experienced 100% growth in North America between 2015-2020.
Judo (Japan): Olympic sport emphasizing throws and pins to control opponents without striking. Over 15 million people practice Judo globally across multiple countries.
Wrestling: Ancient combat form using takedowns, pins, and control positions. Freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling serve as foundations for modern MMA training.
Sambo (Russia): Soviet military system combining judo throws with leg locks and combat applications. The art includes both sport and combat variations for different purposes.
Aikido (Japan): Defensive art using circular motions and joint locks to redirect aggressor’s force. Training emphasizes harmony and minimal resistance against attacks.
Weapons arts train practitioners in armed combat using traditional and modern implements. These systems often preserve historical fighting methods.
Kendo (Japan): Sword art using bamboo shinai and protective armor for full-contact sparring. Practitioners develop timing, distance, and decisive striking.
Kobudo (Okinawa): Traditional weapons system featuring bo staff, sai, tonfa, and nunchaku. Originally adapted from farming implements for self-defense.
Eskrima/Arnis/Kali (Philippines): Stick and blade fighting emphasizing weapon-based techniques before empty-hand methods. The national sport of the Philippines incorporates strikes, joint locks, and disarms.
HEMA (Europe): Historical European Martial Arts reconstructs medieval and Renaissance combat using longswords, rapiers, and polearms. Practitioners study historical manuscripts for authentic techniques.
Hybrid systems blend multiple disciplines for comprehensive combat effectiveness. These arts adapt techniques for practical application.
Mixed Martial Arts: Combines striking, grappling, and ground fighting from various systems. MMA represents the most physically demanding martial art, burning 1,200 calories per hour.
Jeet Kune Do: Bruce Lee’s philosophy emphasizing simplicity, directness, and personal expression. The system influenced modern MMA by promoting cross-training and adaptability.
Krav Maga (Israel): Reality-based self-defense system developed for military and civilian protection. Training focuses on instinctive responses to real-world threats.
Kajukenbo (Hawaii): American hybrid combining Karate, Judo, Jujutsu, Kenpo, and Boxing. Created for street fighting effectiveness rather than sport competition.
These arts emphasize mental cultivation, energy development, and holistic health benefits. Physical techniques serve as vehicles for personal transformation.
Tai Chi (China): Slow, flowing movements promoting relaxation, balance, and internal energy cultivation. With 300 million practitioners globally, Tai Chi ranks as the most practiced martial art.
Qigong (China): Energy cultivation practice combining movement, breathing, and meditation. Training develops awareness of qi (life energy) flowing through the body.
The integration of meditation and breathwork distinguishes these systems from purely combative arts.
Asia produced over 100 documented martial arts styles, with China alone contributing 300+ regional variations. Japanese systems include 40+ recognized styles, while Korean, Thai, and Filipino arts add dozens more.
Japan systematized combat into distinct ryu (schools) during the feudal period. Modern Japanese arts divide into traditional budo and competitive sports.
Major Japanese Systems:
Karate (multiple styles: Shotokan, Goju-Ryu, Kyokushin, Wado-Ryu)
Judo, Jujutsu, Aikido (grappling and throws)
Kendo, Iaido, Ninjutsu (weapons and traditional arts)
Karate alone encompasses 8+ major styles practiced by 100-130 million people worldwide. Each Japanese style preserves specific technical lineages and philosophical approaches.
Chinese kung fu represents the most diverse martial arts tradition, with hundreds of regional and family styles. Northern and southern styles employ different strategies based on geography and body mechanics.
Major Chinese Categories:
External styles: Shaolin, Hung Gar, Praying Mantis, Wing Chun
Internal styles: Tai Chi, Bagua Zhang, Xing Yi Quan
Animal styles: Tiger, Crane, Snake, Leopard, Dragon
Traditional Chinese martial arts claim over 60 million practitioners worldwide. The styles blend combat effectiveness with health cultivation and spiritual development.
Korea developed striking-focused systems emphasizing kicks and powerful techniques. Modern Korean arts gained international recognition through Olympic inclusion and global organizations.
Primary Korean Systems:
Taekwondo (80 million practitioners in 200+ countries)
Hapkido (joint locks, throws, kicks – 1.5 million practitioners)
Tang Soo Do, Kuk Sool Won (traditional Korean methods)
Taekwondo’s standardized curriculum through the World Taekwondo Federation ensures consistent belt requirements across countries.
Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, and Malaysia developed distinctive fighting systems adapted to tropical environments and blade weapons.
Notable Southeast Asian Martial Arts:
Muay Thai (Thailand – 500,000+ practitioners)
Silat (Indonesia, Malaysia – 2 million practitioners)
Eskrima/Kali (Philippines – weapon-based)
Lethwei (Myanmar – allows headbutts)
These systems emphasize practical combat effectiveness and cultural heritage.
Aikido
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Joint locks, throws, and blending movements
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Circular motions, redirecting opponent’s energy, non-resistance philosophy
Modern Application: Self-defense, spiritual development, law enforcement training
Aikijujutsu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Grappling and joint manipulation
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Aiki principles for off-balancing, precursor to Aikido
Modern Application: Traditional martial arts schools, self-defense systems
Aiki-Ken
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Sword techniques within Aikido
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Unifies body movement with sword handling, emphasizes timing and distance
Modern Application: Advanced Aikido training, weapons-based martial practice
Aiki-Jo
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Short staff techniques in Aikido
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Integrated strikes, thrusts, and blocks with empty-hand movements
Modern Application: Aikido weapons curriculum, solo and partner practice
American Kenpo
Country/Origin: United States
Primary Focus: Rapid-fire striking and self-defense
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Modified Kenpo with scientific principles, explosive hand combinations
Modern Application: Self-defense schools, competitive martial arts
Angampora
Country/Origin: Sri Lanka
Primary Focus: Unarmed combat, pressure points, and weaponry
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Ancient Sinhalese art, includes nerve-point strikes and indigenous weapons
Modern Application: Cultural preservation, traditional martial arts practice
Arnis
Country/Origin: Philippines
Primary Focus: Stick and blade fighting
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Weapon-based system with empty-hand translations, fluid striking patterns
Modern Application: National sport of the Philippines, self-defense training
Baguazhang
Country/Origin: China
Primary Focus: Internal martial art with circular movements
Unique Techniques/Attributes: “Circle walking” practice, evasive footwork, open-hand palm strikes
Modern Application: Health and wellness, advanced internal martial arts
Bajutsu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Mounted archery and combat
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Samurai horsemanship, requires balance and weapon control on horseback
Modern Application: Historical reenactment, traditional Japanese martial arts
Bando
Country/Origin: Myanmar (Burma)
Primary Focus: Unarmed and armed combat system
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Animal-based forms (boar, tiger, snake), includes grappling and striking
Modern Application: Military training, self-defense systems
Banshay
Country/Origin: Myanmar
Primary Focus: Weapon-based combat (sword, staff, spear)
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Burmese sword (dha) techniques, paired with unarmed skills
Modern Application: Cultural martial art, historical combat systems
Bartitsu
Country/Origin: England
Primary Focus: Gentlemanly self-defense with a cane
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Hybrid of boxing, jujutsu, and cane fighting; popularized by Sherlock Holmes
Modern Application: Historical martial arts revival, self-defense hobbyists
Bojutsu
Country/Origin: Japan (Okinawa)
Primary Focus: Staff fighting (6-foot bo)
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Long-range strikes, blocks, and sweeps; part of Kobudo curriculum
Modern Application: Traditional weapons training, kata competition
Boxing
Country/Origin: England
Primary Focus: Punching with gloved hands
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Footwork, head movement, combinations (jab, cross, hook, uppercut)
Modern Application: Olympic sport, professional combat sport, fitness training
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)
Country/Origin: Brazil/Japan
Primary Focus: Ground grappling and submissions
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Leveraged-based techniques, chokeholds, joint locks for controlling larger opponents
Modern Application: MMA foundation, sport grappling tournaments, self-defense
Budō
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Martial “ways” or paths to self-development
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Encompasses arts like Judo, Kendo, Aikido; emphasizes discipline and philosophy
Modern Application: Umbrella term for modern Japanese martial arts with a spiritual focus
Bujutsu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Classical martial techniques of the samurai
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Practical battlefield combat systems (kenjutsu, sojutsu)
Modern Application: Historical preservation in koryu (old school) martial arts
Capoeira
Country/Origin: Brazil
Primary Focus: Acrobatic movements, kicks, and music
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Disguised as a dance by enslaved Africans; fluid, rhythmic combat style
Modern Application: Cultural art form, fitness, performance art
Catch Wrestling
Country/Origin: United Kingdom/United States
Primary Focus: Aggressive submission grappling
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Focus on painful holds and pins (“hooks”), no-gi system
Modern Application: MMA grappling base, professional wrestling influence
Chin Na (Qin Na)
Country/Origin: China
Primary Focus: Joint locks, holds, and pressure points
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Seizing and controlling techniques found in many Kung Fu styles
Modern Application: Self-defense, law enforcement control tactics
Choy Li Fut
Country/Origin: China
Primary Focus: Long-range striking and traditional weapons
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Combines Northern and Southern Kung Fu; powerful, circular arm swings
Modern Application: Kung Fu schools, international competitions
Combat Hopak
Country/Origin: Ukraine
Primary Focus: Striking and grappling based on Ukrainian folk dance
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Acrobatic kicks, wrestling, and traditional Cossack movements
Modern Application: National martial art of Ukraine, cultural sport
Daitō-ryū Aiki-jūjutsu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Joint locks and off-balancing techniques
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Ancestor of Aikido; subtle, efficient movements to control attackers
Modern Application: Traditional Jujutsu schools, influence on modern Aiki-based arts
Defendo
Country/Origin: Canada
Primary Focus: Reality-based self-defense
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Developed for law enforcement; simple, effective techniques for real-world threats
Modern Application: Police and civilian self-defense programs
Dumog
Country/Origin: Philippines
Primary Focus: Filipino wrestling and grappling
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Standing grappling focused on off-balancing and control; often integrated with Kali
Modern Application: Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) curriculum, close-quarters self-defense
Eishin-Ryu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Traditional Iaido (sword drawing)
Unique Techniques/Attributes: One of the oldest Iaido schools; emphasizes smooth, precise sword movements
Modern Application: Classical Japanese swordsmanship practice
Eskrima
Country/Origin: Philippines
Primary Focus: Stick and blade combat
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Interchangeable weapon and empty-hand techniques; focus on angles of attack
Modern Application: Self-defense, military combatives, cultural martial art
Fencing
Country/Origin: Europe (Spain, Italy, France)
Primary Focus: Sword fighting with foil, épée, or sabre
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Linear footwork, precision point control, tactical blade work
Modern Application: Olympic sport, historical and classical fencing clubs
Gatka
Country/Origin: India (Punjab)
Primary Focus: Sikh martial art with stick and sword
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Weapon-based system used by Sikh warriors; rhythmic, spinning movements
Modern Application: Cultural and religious practice, martial sport
Gendai Budo
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Modern Japanese martial arts (post-1868)
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Includes Judo, Kendo, Aikido; focus on self-development over battlefield application
Modern Application: Global martial arts disciplines
Glima
Country/Origin: Scandinavia (Iceland)
Primary Focus: Viking-era folk wrestling
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Upright wrestling style with specific rules and grips; emphasizes technique over strength
Modern Application: Traditional sport in Iceland, historical combat reenactment
Gongkwon Yusul
Country/Origin: South Korea
Primary Focus: Modern hybrid grappling and striking
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Blends Hapkido, Judo, and Boxing; focuses on fluid transitions between ranges
Modern Application: Korean MMA and self-defense schools
Gouren
Country/Origin: France (Brittany)
Primary Focus: Traditional Breton folk wrestling
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Wrestlers wear a special jacket (roched); goal is to throw opponent onto their back
Modern Application: Regional sport in Brittany, part of Celtic wrestling styles
Greco-Roman Wrestling
Country/Origin: France
Primary Focus: Upper-body wrestling
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Prohibits holds below the waist; focuses on throws and lifts
Modern Application: Olympic sport, amateur wrestling programs
Gwon-gyokdo
Country/Origin: South Korea
Primary Focus: Kickboxing and grappling hybrid
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Combines Taekwondo kicks with Muay Thai and Judo techniques
Modern Application: Korean combat sport
Hakkoryu Jujutsu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Medical Jujutsu and self-defense
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Focuses on pressure points and manipulating the body’s energy meridians
Modern Application: Traditional self-defense, healing arts
Hapkido
Country/Origin: South Korea
Primary Focus: Joint locks, throws, and kicks
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Comprehensive system with striking, grappling, and weapons
Modern Application: Self-defense, police and military training
Hojojutsu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Rope-tying and restraining techniques
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Samurai police art for capturing and immobilizing criminals
Modern Application: Historical martial arts study, law enforcement techniques
Hung Ga
Country/Origin: China
Primary Focus: Southern Kung Fu with strong stances
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Five Animals and Five Elements forms, powerful hand techniques
Modern Application: Traditional Kung Fu training, health and fitness
Hwa Rang Do
Country/Origin: South Korea
Primary Focus: Comprehensive martial and healing art
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Based on ancient Hwarang warriors; includes striking, grappling, weapons, and meditation
Modern Application: Holistic martial arts schools worldwide
Iaido
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Art of drawing the sword
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Emphasizes awareness, form, and precision in a single, fluid motion
Modern Application: Meditative martial art, preservation of samurai culture
Icho-Ryu
Country/Origin: Japan/USA
Primary Focus: Hybrid system for law enforcement
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Blends Karate, Aikido, and Jujutsu for practical control and restraint
Modern Application: Police defensive tactics, specialized self-defense
Jailhouse Rock
Country/Origin: United States
Primary Focus: Prison-based fighting system
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Close-range, improvisational combat; various regional styles (e.g., 52 Blocks)
Modern Application: Urban self-defense, cultural study
Jeet Kune Do (JKD)
Country/Origin: United States
Primary Focus: Bruce Lee’s martial philosophy
Unique Techniques/Attributes: “Style of no style”; emphasizes simplicity, directness, and personal expression
Modern Application: Foundation for MMA, reality-based self-defense
Jojutsu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Fighting with a short staff (jo)
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Defending against the Japanese sword; includes thrusts, strikes, and joint locks
Modern Application: Part of Aikido and police training, traditional weapons art
Judo
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Grappling, throws, and pins
Unique Techniques/Attributes: “The Gentle Way”; uses opponent’s momentum; emphasizes safety and mutual welfare
Modern Application: Olympic sport, global physical education, MMA base
Jujutsu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Unarmed combat of the samurai
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Parent art of Judo and Aikido; includes joint locks, throws, and strikes
Modern Application: Traditional self-defense, police and military combatives
Jukendo
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Bayonet fighting
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Martial art using a mock rifle with a bayonet; emphasizes thrusting techniques
Modern Application: Niche sport in Japan, historical martial art
Juttejutsu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Disarming with the jutte weapon
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Police weapon for trapping and controlling a sword
Modern Application: Historical martial arts, Kobudo training
Kajukenbo
Country/Origin: United States (Hawaii)
Primary Focus: Hybrid street self-defense
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Blends Karate, Judo, Kenpo, and Boxing; practical and brutal
Modern Application: Self-defense schools, particularly in the US
Kalaripayattu
Country/Origin: India (Kerala)
Primary Focus: Ancient weapon and unarmed combat
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Considered one of the oldest martial arts; includes strikes, kicks, weapons, and healing practices
Modern Application: Cultural heritage, fitness, and performance art
KAPAP
Country/Origin: Israel
Primary Focus: Israeli face-to-face combat
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Precursor to Krav Maga; focuses on practical, no-nonsense self-defense
Modern Application: Military and police training, civilian self-defense
Karate
Country/Origin: Japan (Okinawa)
Primary Focus: Striking with hands, feet, elbows, and knees
Unique Techniques/Attributes: “Empty hand” combat; various styles (Shotokan, Goju-Ryu, etc.)
Modern Application: Olympic sport, self-defense, character development
Kendo
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Japanese sword fighting
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Uses bamboo sword (shinai) and armor (bogu); emphasizes spirit and discipline
Modern Application: Competitive sport, cultural practice
Kenjutsu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Classical Japanese swordsmanship
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Battlefield sword techniques of the samurai; numerous traditional schools (ryu)
Modern Application: Preservation in koryu, foundation for modern Kendo
Kenpo
Country/Origin: China/Japan/USA
Primary Focus: Striking-based self-defense
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Linear and circular movements, rapid hand strikes
Modern Application: American Kenpo and other variations for self-defense
Kickboxing
Country/Origin: Global (various origins)
Primary Focus: Punching and kicking
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Combines boxing punches with martial arts kicks; various rule sets (e.g., Dutch, American)
Modern Application: Combat sport, fitness training
Kobudo
Country/Origin: Japan (Okinawa)
Primary Focus: Traditional Okinawan weapons
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Uses farming tools as weapons (bo, sai, tonfa, nunchaku)
Modern Application: Traditional martial arts, weapons competitions
Koryu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Ancient Japanese martial schools
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Pre-Meiji Restoration (before 1868) battlefield arts
Modern Application: Preserved by traditional masters and organizations
Krav Maga
Country/Origin: Israel
Primary Focus: Reality-based self-defense
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Developed for the Israeli military; focuses on instinctive movements and brutal counter-attacks
Modern Application: Military, law enforcement, and civilian self-defense worldwide
Kuk Sool Won
Country/Origin: South Korea
Primary Focus: Comprehensive traditional Korean martial art
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Includes striking, grappling, joint locks, weapons, and healing techniques
Modern Application: International martial arts organization
Kumdo
Country/Origin: South Korea
Primary Focus: Korean sword fighting (similar to Kendo)
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Uses bamboo sword and armor; Korean terminology and cultural context
Modern Application: Competitive sport in Korea
Kung Fu (Wushu)
Country/Origin: China
Primary Focus: Umbrella term for Chinese martial arts
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Hundreds of styles (e.g., Shaolin, Wing Chun, Tai Chi); performance (Wushu) and traditional versions
Modern Application: Global sport, health, self-defense, cultural practice
Kyudo
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Japanese archery
Unique Techniques/Attributes: “The Way of the Bow”; meditative practice emphasizing form and spirit
Modern Application: Traditional and spiritual practice
Kyujutsu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Classical samurai archery
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Battlefield archery techniques, often from horseback (bajutsu)
Modern Application: Historical martial arts preservation
Lethwei
Country/Origin: Myanmar
Primary Focus: Bare-knuckle boxing with headbutts
Unique Techniques/Attributes: “The Art of 9 Limbs” (includes head); highly aggressive and brutal
Modern Application: Professional combat sport in Myanmar
Lucha Libre
Country/Origin: Mexico
Primary Focus: Professional wrestling with high-flying acrobatics
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Colorful masks, rapid sequences, aerial maneuvers
Modern Application: Popular entertainment and cultural spectacle
Malla-yuddha
Country/Origin: India
Primary Focus: Ancient Indian wrestling
Unique Techniques/Attributes: One of the oldest forms of combat in South Asia; includes grappling, striking, and pressure points
Modern Application: Historical art, influence on modern Indian wrestling (Kushti)
Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP)
Country/Origin: United States
Primary Focus: Hand-to-hand combat for the US Marine Corps
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Blends various martial arts for battlefield effectiveness; belt system
Modern Application: Standard training for all US Marines
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)
Country/Origin: Global
Primary Focus: Hybrid combat sport
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Combines striking, grappling, and ground fighting from various disciplines
Modern Application: Major professional sport (e.g., UFC, Bellator)
Monkey Kung Fu (Hou Quan)
Country/Origin: China
Primary Focus: Imitative animal-style Kung Fu
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Mimics the movements of a monkey; acrobatic, tricky, and unpredictable
Modern Application: Traditional Kung Fu schools, demonstrations
Muay Boran
Country/Origin: Thailand
Primary Focus: Ancient Thai boxing
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Precursor to modern Muay Thai; includes techniques not allowed in the sport version
Modern Application: Self-defense, historical martial arts
Muay Thai
Country/Origin: Thailand
Primary Focus: Thai boxing (“The Art of Eight Limbs”)
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Uses fists, elbows, knees, and shins for powerful strikes
Modern Application: National sport of Thailand, global combat sport
Naginatajutsu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Fighting with the naginata (polearm)
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Traditionally used by female samurai; long, sweeping cuts and thrusts
Modern Application: Modern sport (Atarashii Naginata), traditional koryu practice
Ninjutsu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Espionage and unconventional warfare of the ninja
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Includes stealth, disguise, and various weapons; 18 traditional disciplines
Modern Application: Modern variations like Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu
Niten Ichi-ryu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Two-sword fighting style of Miyamoto Musashi
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Simultaneous use of the long sword (katana) and short sword (wakizashi)
Modern Application: Preserved in traditional schools
Nunchaku-jutsu
Country/Origin: Japan (Okinawa)
Primary Focus: Fighting with nunchaku
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Part of Kobudo; striking and blocking techniques
Modern Application: Traditional weapons training, freestyle demonstrations
Okinawan Karate
Country/Origin: Japan (Okinawa)
Primary Focus: Original forms of Karate
Unique Techniques/Attributes: More focus on self-defense application than sport; includes styles like Goju-Ryu, Shorin-Ryu
Modern Application: Traditional dojos worldwide
Pankration
Country/Origin: Ancient Greece
Primary Focus: Ancient Greek MMA (boxing and wrestling)
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Few rules; one of the original Olympic sports
Modern Application: Revived as a modern amateur sport
Pehlwani (Kushti)
Country/Origin: India/Pakistan/Iran
Primary Focus: Traditional wrestling
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Training in a clay or dirt pit (akhara); uses mace (gada) for conditioning
Modern Application: Traditional sport in South Asia
Pencak Silat
Country/Origin: Indonesia/Malaysia
Primary Focus: Full-body fighting with weapons and empty hands
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Diverse styles; fluid movements, grappling, and striking
Modern Application: National sport, self-defense, cultural art form
Praying Mantis Kung Fu
Country/Origin: China
Primary Focus: Northern Chinese Kung Fu style
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Hooks and grabs mimicking a praying mantis; rapid, precise strikes
Modern Application: Traditional Kung Fu schools
Qigong (Chi Kung)
Country/Origin: China
Primary Focus: Energy cultivation and internal health
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Not a combat art, but a foundation for internal martial arts; breathing, posture, and meditation
Modern Application: Health and wellness practice
Sambo
Country/Origin: Russia (Soviet Union)
Primary Focus: Hybrid grappling and combat sport
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Blends Judo and wrestling; includes Sport Sambo and Combat Sambo (with strikes)
Modern Application: International sport, military combatives
Sanshou (Sanda)
Country/Origin: China
Primary Focus: Chinese kickboxing with throws
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Combines Kung Fu striking with wrestling takedowns
Modern Application: Competitive sport, self-defense component of Wushu
Savate
Country/Origin: France
Primary Focus: French kickboxing
Unique Techniques/Attributes: “Boxe Française”; emphasizes kicking while wearing shoes
Modern Application: Competitive sport
Shaolin Kung Fu
Country/Origin: China
Primary Focus: Martial arts from the Shaolin Temple
Unique Techniques/Attributes: One of the most famous and oldest styles; acrobatic, powerful movements
Modern Application: Global Kung Fu schools, cultural icon
Shintaido
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Modern martial art for body expression and communication
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Non-competitive; uses large, flowing movements
Modern Application: Holistic practice for health and creativity
Shito-Ryu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: One of the four major styles of Karate
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Huge number of kata; blends hard and soft techniques
Modern Application: Sport Karate and traditional dojos
Shorinji Kempo
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Self-defense and spiritual development
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Blends hard strikes (goho) and soft grappling (juho); based on Buddhist principles
Modern Application: International organization with a focus on cooperation
Shorin-Ryu
Country/Origin: Japan (Okinawa)
Primary Focus: One of the major Okinawan Karate styles
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Natural breathing, quick movements, upright stances
Modern Application: Traditional Karate practice
Shotokan
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: One of the most popular Karate styles
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Deep, long stances; powerful linear techniques
Modern Application: Global sport and traditional Karate
Shuai Jiao
Country/Origin: China
Primary Focus: Chinese jacket wrestling
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Ancient wrestling style; focuses on throws and sweeps
Modern Application: Competitive sport, influence on other grappling arts
Silat
Country/Origin: Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, etc.)
Primary Focus: Diverse family of martial arts
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Fluid, deceptive movements; includes weapons, striking, and grappling
Modern Application: National sport, self-defense, cultural art
Siljun Dobup
Country/Origin: South Korea
Primary Focus: Modern Korean sword art
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Focus on realistic cutting and drawing for modern practitioners
Modern Application: Martial sport and discipline
Small Circle Jujitsu
Country/Origin: United States
Primary Focus: Jujutsu based on anatomical principles
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Developed by Wally Jay; focuses on small, efficient joint locks and pain compliance
Modern Application: Self-defense, police tactics
Sojutsu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Fighting with the yari (spear)
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Samurai battlefield art; thrusting and sweeping techniques
Modern Application: Koryu preservation
Ssireum
Country/Origin: South Korea
Primary Focus: Traditional Korean wrestling
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Wrestlers use a satin belt (satba); goal is to bring any part of opponent’s body above the knee to the ground
Modern Application: Popular sport in Korea
Sumo
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Japanese ritual wrestling
Unique Techniques/Attributes: National sport of Japan; wrestlers try to force their opponent out of a circular ring or to touch the ground with any body part other than the soles of their feet
Modern Application: Professional sport with deep cultural roots
Systema
Country/Origin: Russia
Primary Focus: Russian martial art for self-defense and combat
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Focus on breathing, relaxation, and natural movement; no forms or stances
Modern Application: Taught to Russian special forces and civilians worldwide
Taekkyeon
Country/Origin: South Korea
Primary Focus: Traditional Korean martial art with dance-like movements
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Fluid, rhythmic steps; focuses on kicks and trips
Modern Application: UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, cultural sport
Taekwondo
Country/Origin: South Korea
Primary Focus: Kicking-based martial art
Unique Techniques/Attributes: High, fast, and spinning kicks; “The Way of the Foot and Fist”
Modern Application: Olympic sport, one of the most practiced martial arts globally
Tai Chi Chuan (Taijiquan)
Country/Origin: China
Primary Focus: Internal martial art practiced for health and self-defense
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Slow, flowing movements; focus on internal energy (qi)
Modern Application: Mass participation health exercise, competitive sport
Tantojutsu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Fighting with a tanto (knife)
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Samurai knife fighting techniques
Modern Application: Koryu and modern self-defense systems
Tang Soo Do
Country/Origin: South Korea
Primary Focus: Traditional Korean Karate
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Blends Korean and Chinese influences; emphasis on forms and one-step sparring
Modern Application: Global martial art focused on traditional values
1t1. Tessenjutsu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Fighting with the Japanese war fan (tessen)
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Used for signaling, striking, and blocking; a deceptive weapon
Modern Application: Koryu preservation
Thang-Ta
Country/Origin: India (Manipur)
Primary Focus: Manipuri martial art (“The Art of the Sword and Spear”)
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Includes sword, spear, and unarmed combat
Modern Application: Cultural performance and martial art
Tonfa-jutsu
Country/Origin: Japan (Okinawa)
Primary Focus: Fighting with the tonfa
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Part of Kobudo; used for blocking, striking, and joint locks
Modern Application: Traditional weapons training, police side-handle baton techniques
Vovinam
Country/Origin: Vietnam
Primary Focus: Vietnamese martial art
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Includes striking, grappling, weapons, and spectacular flying leg scissors takedowns
Modern Application: National sport of Vietnam, growing internationally
Wado-Ryu
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: One of the four major Karate styles
Unique Techniques/Attributes: “Way of Harmony”; integrates Jujutsu principles like evasion and body shifting
Modern Application: Sport and traditional Karate
Wing Chun
Country/Origin: China
Primary Focus: Close-range combat system
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Simultaneous blocking and striking, centerline theory, sticky hands (Chi Sao)
Modern Application: Popular self-defense system worldwide
Wrestling
Country/Origin: Global (ancient origins)
Primary Focus: Grappling, takedowns, and pins
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Numerous styles (Freestyle, Greco-Roman, Folkstyle)
Modern Application: Major global sport at amateur and professional levels
Xing Yi Quan
Country/Origin: China
Primary Focus: Internal martial art based on the Five Elements
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Aggressive, linear movements; explosive power
Modern Application: Health and self-defense
Yabusame
Country/Origin: Japan
Primary Focus: Mounted archery
Unique Techniques/Attributes: Traditional ritual combining archery with Shintoism
Modern Application: Cultural and religious ceremonies in Japan
Yamanni-ryu
Country/Origin: Japan (Okinawa)
Primary Focus: Okinawan bojutsu (staff fighting)
Unique Techniques/Attributes: One of the oldest and most respected staff systems; fluid, powerful movements
Modern Application: Kobudo training
This list is not exhaustive, as many styles have sub-styles or have yet to be widely documented. The world of martial arts is constantly evolving, with new systems emerging and ancient ones being rediscovered.
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