We all have probably watched movies about martial arts. In fact, we oftentimes mimic the movement we have seen performed by the actors. These martial arts movies may even have sparked or interest to learn and master it. Just as what we have learned from the movies, there are various types of martial arts that an enthusiast could choose to learn. It is interesting to know that these fighting styles actually came from different nations and cultures. Below are some of them.
Aikido
This martial art hailed from Japan and was known to be developed by the Great Teacher, Morihei Ueshiba. This art involves joint locks and throws derived from Jujitsu and other techniques from Kenjutsu. With Aikido, you will learn not merely to punch or to kick your opponent; but to actually use his energy to throw them away and control the fight. This martial art is not static; it emphasizes on dynamic motion instead.
Bando
Bando or Bando Thaing is an armed/unarmed native combat style from Burma. It also adapts different strikes, throws and techniques from other martial arts like Karate and Judo. It also incorporates the use of fighting tools like sticks, spears and knives. The emphasis of this style is to initially withdraw and then attack from a point beyond the opponent’s reach. All body parts are used in attacking the opponent. After delivering the initial movement, other techniques like locking and grappling will follow.
Capoeira
This can be considered as a sport, art form and also a self-defense technique. It originated from Brazil and implements some aerobic/dance components. With this art, you will learn how to use both your body and your soul; you will learn how to fight while dancing; you will train mentally, physically as well as emotionally. This is not merely about singing or dancing, but about the energy you put into every move you try. It also involves harmonious relation between forces that will provide you with flexibility, power, endurance and also self-discovery. Nowadays, this art has been growing popularity as an aerobic alternative.
Jeet Kune Do
This art form is the complete embodiment of the philosophical and technical knowledge studied and passed on by the well-known Bruce Lee while he was still alive. This is to be considered as the root from which Bruce Lee himself was established. It was from this martial art that he personally evolved and discovered deeply about himself.
Jujitsu
This is the art of flexibility and suppleness, but learning this art is actually far from being supple. The principle in this art is not to use strength for strength. Rather, it employs using the strength of your opponent, as well as his attack force, as actual tools to use against him. It incorporates the use of joint locks, throws, chokes and unarmed strikes that can subdue even an opponent that is larger than you.
Krav Maga
This fighting system will show about preventing, dealing and overcoming all sorts of attacks and violence. This system was developed in Israel. It is performed naturally as well as intuitively. Students of Krav Maga are taught of combat and defense skills to protect not just one’s self, but also others.