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There are several hundred
martial art systems, here are some. We recognize it is not a
complete listing and would be glad to add to, update or
correct this listing. If you would like to contribute,
Aikido
- Aikido is a Japanese martial art developed by
Morihei Ueshiba (often referred to by his title 'O Sensei' or
'Great Teacher'). On a purely physical level it is an art
involving some throws and joint locks that are derived from
Jujitsu and some throws and other techniques derived from
Kenjutsu. Aikido focuses not on punching or kicking opponents,
but rather on using their own energy to gain control of them
or to throw them away from you. It is not a static art, but
places great emphasis on motion and the dynamics of movement.
On the technical side, aikido is rooted in several styles of
jujitsu (from which modern judo is also derived), in
particular daitoryu-(aiki) jujitsu, as well as sword and spear
fighting arts. Oversimplifying somewhat, we may say that
aikido takes the joint locks and throws from jujitsu and
combines them with the body movements of sword and spear
fighting. However, we must also realize that many aikido
techniques are the result of Master Ueshiba's own innovation.
Bando Thaing - Bando is
credited as a style of armed and unarmed combat native to
Burma. It is an assimilation of Karate-like striking and
kicking techniques, Judo-like throwing techniques, swordplay
and fighting with knives, spears and sticks. There are
numerous interpretations of the term Bando, and different
linguistic and ethnic groups hold to diverse translations.
There are many styles of Bando, but most follow basic
instructional patterns. The art emphasizes initial withdrawal
followed by an attack outside the opponent's reach. All parts
of the body are employed in these attacks, and once the
initial technique is delivered, grappling and locking
techniques are used. Techniques are learned first through
formal exercises in some systems and only later through
sparring.
Capoeira
- Capoeira (pronounced
Capo-wa-ra), a fun and exciting sport, is a Brazilian art form
and self-defense; with strong aerobic and dance elements. It
is a mixture of body and soul, fighting and dancing, of music
instruments and voice requiring the use of mental physical and
emotional agility. The emphasis is not on how well you sing or
perform but on how much energy you commit to trying. It is a
harmony of forces that gives you power, flexibility, endurance
and self-discovery. Participants form a circle and 2 people at
a time exhibit their skills in eluding and striking their
opponent. The blows are not landed. What results is a highly
aerobic, and fun mock fight with some very impressive moves.
(The music is infectious also!) This is growing in popularity
as a fun alternative to aerobics.
Chanbara
- Over thirty years ago
Japanese martial artists and swordmasters came together and
created a better training style. The founder, Tanabe Tetsundo
and his group of some of the strongest swordsmen in Japan
called this new school of thought Goshindo, later nicknamed
Chanbara. These martial artists and masters were very
traditional. They also knew that the times were changing and
decided to educate today's public in the way of the modern
Japanese Samurai. New materials made out of flexible plastics
and the constant refining of swords for combat in the 21st
century proved to be a stroke of genius.
Choi Kwang Do - Choi
Kwang Do was developed by Grandmaster Kwang Jo Choi between
1978 and 1987 and has proven to be the most effective martial
arts system in the world. Choi Kwang Do’s natural,
easy-to-learn, sequential movements maximize your body’s
force-producing capabilities, but more importantly, they
increase opportunities to enhance your health. It’s a unique
program based on modern scientific principles from human
anatomy, physiology (the branch of biological sciences dealing
with the functioning of organisms), psychology (the science of
mental life), kinesiology (the branch of physiology that
studies mechanics and anatomy in relation to human movement),
neurophysiology (the branch of neuroscience that studies the
physiology of the nervous system) and biomechanics (human
movement science).
Choi Kwang Do
is not designed for competition and does not follow the
intensity of sports training. The system is meant for all
individuals who want to learn real-life, practical
self-defense skills and achieve a greater level of health and
well-being, not people solely interested in winning trophies.
Because it’s a non-contact, non-fighting, non-competitive art
that stresses mental, physical, emotional and social
development, Choi Kwang Do promotes non-violent resolutions to
conflict, practical solutions to cardiovascular improvement,
and enjoyable methods of exercise. In addition, with
competition removed, students can continually develop – not
against each other, but with each other. With a progressive
system from White belt to the highest level of 9th
Degree Black belt, Choi Kwang Do always offers you something
new and challenging to learn, experience and enjoy.
Daito Ryu Aiki Bujutsu -
The art of Daito ryu is one of the oldest
traditions of Japanese ko ryu bujutsu. Its origin lies in the
convergence of several martial disciplines which came together
in the Aizu clan, where formal bujutsu instruction was a
priority. The creation of the Nishinkan [akin to a
martial art university], with all its separate dojos and a
diversity of arts being taught, is only part of the
circumstances that favored the development of Daito ryu within
the Aizu domain. One determining factor is, to a certain
degree, coincidental, since it was in Aizu where certain
families and individuals came together, bringing with them
their own arts, experiences, and expertise in jujutsu,
swordsmanship, spearmanship, horsemanship, archery, strategy,
and other war-related arts. Other non-martial arts were also
valued such as calligraphy, poetry, healing arts, ethics,
etiquette, and other areas of learning more related to peace.
Overall, etiquette was the cohesive link among all these
disciplines, for the spirit and conduct of the warrior was
equated to, and sometimes used to measure, his true worth and
fighting skills.
The more traditional lines of Daito ryu today still give
priority to the spiritual training of the student, and judges
his or her progress by means of character, dedication,
humility, willingness to contribute to the welfare of the
dojo, the progress of the fellow students, and other traits
that show a loyal and selfless spirit. These make a student
worthwhile to be instructed in the inner secrets of the art.
Hence, the teachings are geared to train and test spirit and
character first, and techniques are taught accordingly.
Gatka
- Gatka is the martial art of the Sikhs, and is
tied in with the religion Sikhism. It's a weapons-based
martial art, which was imparted to the Sikhs in the time of
Guru Hargobind Ji (the sixth Guru of the Sikhs) by the Rajputs
(Hindu warriors of northern India) in the 16th century, in
gratitude for their release from imprisonment by the fledgling
Sikh army of that time. The Sikhs at that time opposed the
Mughal Empire, which violently oppressed both Sikhs and Hindus
in the name of Islam.
Haidong Gumdo - Haidong
Gumdo is a Korean sword art which draws from battlefield
tactics and techniques to build a curriculum for mental,
physical and spiritual development. Students learn forms, step
drills, sitting and moving meditation, sparring as well as
bamboo and straw cutting. Unlike Kendo and its Korean
equivalent, Kumdo, the focus in Haidong Gumdo is not duelling
but on the tactics of outdoor, pitched battles. Powerful,
complex and beautiful, Haidong Gumdo is a wonderful style
which can be pursued throughout your life. Haidong Gumdo means
many things to many people. On the surface it is a martial
system which preserves and promotes the Korean approach to
sword techniques. The dynamic movements and visible power of
the forms capture the eye and imagination. Graceful, flowing
motion, harnessing lethal power is one way to describe Haidong
Gumdo.
Hapkido -
Hapkido is a discipline of
coordination, a way of strengthening the mind and body, of
fusing the individuals physical and mental powers so that he
or she will emerge as a more fully integrated human being. The
word in fact means; Method or Way (DO) for the coordination
Harmony (HAP) of mental Energy or spirit (KI). One should
always try to avoid violence, but if someone grabs you,
attempts to strike you, or physically assaults you in any way,
it has escalated beyond words, and you are left with the only
option which is to defend.
Hwa Rang Do - Hwa Rang
Do, teaches that in order to attain maximum human potential,
one must attain a state of balance and maintain harmony with
natural laws of the universe. The theory of Um-Yang states
that in nature there is co-existence of polar dichotomies. For
every one, there is an equal opposite. Hwa Rang Do, is a
combination of UM {soft/circular movement} and YANG
{hard/linear movement}, making it one of the most diversified
and comprehensive martial arts to be found in the world. It's
study integrates the spiritual, mental, and physical
disciplines enabling its practitioners to realize their full
potential in all areas of life. The techniques are derived in
accord with the principles of Um-Yang. Three Elements of Um,
the essence of Hwa Rang Do®, soft techniques: Yu - soft, fluid
force of flowing water. The power of Yu is deceptive;
relenting under force; it draws its attack into its own stream
of power and re-directs it. Won - is movement in circular
directions. Its power may be seen in the rock at the end of a
sling, or the power developed from a spinning motion. Hwa - as
the third element of Um, it represents unity and combination.
Three Elements of Yang, the essence of Hwa Rang Do, hard
techniques; Kang - is hard like steel or stone. Its power is
illustrated in the form of a closed fist in a thrust punch or
a straight front kick. Kak - means angles. Its form is found
in the correct angle of the joint when applying breaking and
throwing techniques or straight angular blocks. Kan - means
maintaining proper distance. It is the opposite aspect of Hwa
or combination and its form is found in understanding the
distance between two opponents. Hwa Rang Do, teaches both the
martial art (moo-sul) and healing art (in-sul). If one is able
to injure or worse, then he/she should know how to heal as
well, once again maintaining harmony through balance of
opposites.
Iaido - One of the
Japanese traditional Budo concerned with drawing the blade and
cutting in the same motion. (Budo means martial arts or
military arts in Japan). A typical form consists of the draw
and cut, a finishing cut, cleaning the blade and returning it
to the scabbard, all without looking away from the imaginary
opponent. Most practice is solo, eventually with shin-ken (a
real blade). In contrast with Kendo, Iaido is performed
without protective coverings of any kind. Students must strive
to achieve power, precision and perfection in their form.
Along the way they learn balance, grace, and control both of
the body and the mind. Iaido dealt more with everyday
situation rather than those on the battlefield. The term "Iai"
is taken from the Japanese phrase: "Tsune ni ite, kyu ni awasu".
The meaning of this is, whatever we may be doing or wherever
we may be, we must always be prepared from any eventually. The
techniques themselves dealt with many situations such as a
sudden attack by several opponents, a surprise attack while
bowing to someone, an enemy lying in wait behind a sliding
door or an attack in a darkened room. The permutations
(suppositions) were countless.
Jeet Kune Do - Jeet Kune
Do is the complete body of technical (physical, scientific)
and philosophical (mental, social and spiritual) knowledge
that was studied and taught by Bruce Lee during his lifetime.
It is concerned solely and exclusively with Bruce Lee's
personal evolution and process of self-discovery through the
Martial Art, as supported by written record (personal papers
and library) and oral recollections (by those students who
spent time with and/or studied under him). Jeet Kune Do should
be considered as the "Root" that was established by Bruce Lee,
and NOT the ultimate goal of any practitioner, as students are
expected to modify, add, and delete all aspects of Jeet Kune
Do until they develop something that is uniquely their own
(You the individual become, through this process of
self-discovery, your own best teacher).
Ju Jitsu -
Ju Jitsu is formed from two ideograms Ju
the various meanings of which are suppleness, flexibility,
pliancy, gentleness and Jitsu meaning technique or art. So Ju
Jitsu means the art of suppleness or flexibility. As most Ju
Jitsuka (a student of Ju Jitsu) know there is nothing "gentle"
about the martial art. What Ju is conveying is that Ju Jitsu
does not use strength against strength, it uses the opponents
strength and force of attack as a weapon against him, thus
enabling a stronger or bigger attacker to be subdued. Ju Jitsu
is one of the most complete martial arts there is. It
incorporates unarmed strikes, joint locks, chokes and throws.
Judo - Judo is based on
the ancient Japanese martial art called Jujitsu. Professor
Kano opened the Kodokan Dojo in Tokyo, Japan in the year 1882
and started to train students in Nippon-Den-Kodokan-Judo.
Judo, which means the "gentle way," is not only concerned with
attack and defense techniques but the physical conditioning
and total health that could be attained from its practice. The
meaning of the word Ju (gentleness) denotes not
resisting the strength of the opponent, but adapting to it,
and taking advantage of it by turning it to one's own
advantage. The meaning of the word Do (way) denotes not
just methods or techniques, but also signifies adherence to
strict moral principles which are essential in striving for
"self-perfection as a human being".
Kajukenbo -
Kajukenbo was founded in 1947 at Palamas
Settlement on Oahu, Hawaii. It developed out a group calling
themselves the "Black Belt Society", which consisted of black
belts from various martial arts backgrounds who met to train
and learn with each other. This was the beginning of an
evolutionary, adaptive style designed to combine the most
useful aspects of the arts. Kajukenbo is
a unique martial art style combining the techniques of KA-Karate,
JU-Judo and Jujitsu, KEN-Kenpo, and BO-Boxing.
It was founded in Hawaii in 1947 by Adriano Emperado, and is
one of the most popular forms of self-defense practiced in the
world today, because of its' effectiveness and logical
approach. It's main philosophy is that every martial arts
style has something to offer, and if one accepts that idea and
trains accordingly, they will become a more well-rounded and,
therefore, more effective martial artist.
Kalarippayattu
- A martial art with origins in Kerala and
practiced in that south Indian state and contiguous parts of
neighboring Tamil Nadu. It incorporates strikes, kicks,
grappling, choreographed martial art sequences, and weaponry,
as well as healing techniques.
Kalaripayattu is the ancient martial art of the
State. It is considered as the forerunner of Karate & Kung-fu.
The Kalari is treated as the temple of learning. Age-old
traditions and customs are still practiced inside the Kalari.
The Gurukkal system consists of rigorous physical training
besides training in self-discipline. The weapons used were the
sword, Dagger, Shield, short sticks, spears etc. The
co-ordination of the body and mind is given maximum importance
in this art.
Kali Silat
- Kali, meaning body in motion,
is the Martial Art of the Philippines. Our Kali program
consists of energy drills and sensitivity training utilizing
hand eye coordination techniques with or without the use of
weapons. Silat is the Art form of Malaysia, Indonesia and the
Philippines. It is the art of taking down an attacker simply
and directly utilizing locks, chokes and holds.
Karate - Karate is a
generic term for the various kick/punch arts which originated
in Okinawa and Japan. Karate is a Japanese word that
translates into English as, “empty hand.” It is a martial art
of unarmed self-defense in which directed blows of the hands
or feet are delivered with special shouts from a poised
stance. Karate is related to judo but stresses striking
techniques, through kicks and punches, rather than wrestling
or throwing an opponent. Karate as a means of self-defense has
the oldest history, going back hundreds of years. It is only
in recent years that the techniques which have been handed
down were scientifically studied and the principles evolved
for making the most effective use of the various moves of the
body. Training based on these principles and knowledge of the
working of the muscles and the joints and the vital relation
between movement and balance enable the modern student of
Karate to be prepared, both physically and psychologically, to
defend himself successfully against any would-be assailant. As
a physical art, Karate is almost without equal. Since it is
highly dynamic and makes balanced use of a large number of
body muscles, it provides excellent all-around exercise and
develops coordination and agility.
The major traditional styles of karate are Shotokan, Shito Ryu,
Goju Ryu, and Wado Ryu. Each of these styles is taught by
several international organizations. Besides these 4 main
styles there is a wide variety of other styles, system and
family forms of karate. All of them trace their origin back to
the island of Okinawa, formerly also know as the Ryukyu
Islands, and the martial art developed there. Shotokan karate
is an art, a sport, and the basis for a method of self
defense. Different people choose to emphasize different
aspects of karate in their personal training and study. As a
group everyone is exposed to, and expected to participate in,
training geared toward all three aspects (art, sport, and self
defense) in an attempt to have a well rounded background.
Stylistically, Shotokan is known for having strong, low
stances, dynamic hip motions, and extremely precise
techniques.
Kendo - Kendo is a
Japanese style of fencing derived during the Meiji period in
Japan (1868-1912), from the two-handed sword fighting
techniques of the samurai. Today kendo, which means "way of
the sword", is practiced with shinai (bamboo swords), and
fighters wear protective equipment covering the target areas:
the head, wrists, and abdomen. The bogu (protective gear)
consists of a men (face mask), a do (breastplate), kote
(fencing gloves), and the tare, a kind of apron to protect the
stomach and hips. Under the protective gear, kendoka (students
of kendo) wear a hakama, or wide split skirt, reaching the
ankles. The weapon used in Kendo is the shinai, or bamboo
sword. The shinai is approximately four feet in length and is
made of four carefully formed bamboo slats bound together to
form hollow cylinder. A cord runs along the length of the
shinai. To make a valid cut a player must strike his opponent
with the side opposite the cord. In addition the point must be
struck with the top third of the shinai.
Kickboxing - Kickboxing
started in the US during the 1970's when American karate
practitioners became frustrated with strict controls on
martial arts competitions that didn't allow full contact kicks
and punches. Many questions were raised when the sport began
about the high risk of injury. As a result, safety rules were
improved and protective clothing was added. As this is a
relatively new sport there are no long-term traditions. The
sport has undergone changes and been refined during the last
two decades. Competitors use sparring, kicks, punches, kick
blocks, shadow boxing, and wood breaking that is learned and
applied under professional instruction.
Kobudo - Kobudo is an
entirely separate art, even though many American systems
combine it as part of their Karate (or "empty hand") system.
It is the study of Ryu Kon Kai Kobudo – traditional Okinawan
Weapons. These weapons include the Bo - six-foot staff, Sai -
short-sword, Tonfa - side-handled baton, Nunchaku - 2-section
staff, Kama - sickle, Eku - oar. Tekko - brass knuckles, and
others.
Krav Maga -
A practical and tactical system which
teaches how to prevent, deal and overcome all kinds of
violence and attacks. KM prepares the trainees in the subjects
of self-defense, self protection, fighting and combat skills,
as well as skills to defend others, all in unique and
comprehensive teachings and way. Krav-Maga was developed in
Israel, under realistic demands and conditions. Founded and
formed by Imi Lichtenfeld (Sde-Or) and continues to advance
and be modified by Eyal Yanilov, assisted by the top
instructors of IKMF. Krav-Maga is a horizontal system with a
unique and logical approach. It is easy to learn and retain,
performed naturally and intuitively, and practically be use
under stressful conditions. An essential part of KM is its
teaching process, methodology and ways of training. Krav-Maga
contains special approaches, tactics, techniques, subjects,
drills and training methods for the different sectors:
Civilians of all ages, men and women, young and old;
Law-enforcement officers; Military personnel and units;
Correction service officers and wardens; Security officers; As
well as: Close protection officers; Undercover agents;
Antiterrorists groups; Air-marshals; Special and commando
units.
Kuk Sool Won
- The roots of Kuk Sool date back to the very beginning of
Korea with "Sado Mu Sool" which means family or tribal martial
art. The next martial art to develop was "Bulkyo Mu Sool", or
"Buddhist martial art". Shortly afterwards came "Koong Joong
Mu Sool" which translates to 'Royal Court Martial Art'. These
are the three segments of ancient Korean martial arts from
which the techniques of Kuk Sool evolved. Although its origin
may be traced back to antiquity, the present Kuk Sool system
was formally devised only recently. Grand master In Hyuk Suh
spent more than fifty years in single minded practice and
research in order to learn, compile, master and organize the
more than 3,600 techniques that comprise Kuk Sool. He founded
the Kuk Sool Won in 1961 and took it to the United States in
1974. For self defense, Kuk Sool is unsurpassed. It combines
kicking, punching, throwing, falling, choking, joint locking
and a myriad of weapons techniques into a beautiful and
dynamic 'hard-soft' style, emphasizing speed and fluidity. In
conjunction with physical training, meditation, breathing,
acupressure and acupuncture techniques are employed to improve
and maintain health, develop internal power and retard the
ageing process. Philosophically, Kuk Sool stresses humility,
self discipline, loyalty and respect for others.
Kumdo -
Kumdo, meaning "way of the sword", is very
similar to Kendo. Practitioners, using the
jukdo (bamboo sword) for striking, wear a helmet and hard body
protector so that they are able to practice full contact
strikes to the head and body. Kumdo is an exacting art, with
an emphasis on precision and attitude over speed and strength.
Kumdo also encompasses practice with the wooden sword and,
eventually, the sharp sword (Kumbub).
Kung Fu - An extremely
disciplined, powerful martial art where strength is built in
low stances and powerful blocks. Some Kung Fu blocks are so
powerful that it can break the arm of someone who is punching
you. Kunf Fu has many systems like Hung-Gar, WuShu, Wing Chun,
and others. Kung Fu is for the patient, and mentally and
physically strong person. It was the basis for many later
forms of martial arts. Over the years, kung fu developed into
different styles such as Wing Chun, Drunken boxing and styles
based on animal movements like the crane or snake. The reason
for such diversity was simple. People rarely traveled far from
their homes and kung fu evolved in different locations. In
northern China, martial arts emphasized kicking and leg work.
In the South, various forms of boxing were most common. Top
kung fu stars today have mastered different styles as well.
Jet Li is best known as a practitioner of wu shu which uses
many different styles emphasizing fluid motion. Jackie Chan
learned kung fu while training in a Chinese opera school in
Hong Kong and boosts a mastery of the "five animal styles" of
kung fu which is highlighted in the film Shaolin Wooden Men.
Today many kung fu styles exist and are still passed on as
family traditions and through classes.
The original style of Kung Fu
is Shaolin Kempo or the "5 Animal Styles" (yes, it does have a
name). It has evolved over 5,000 years and is currently
practiced by the Shaolin Monks in the Shaolin Temple of
China's Fukian Province. The dojo, United Studios of Self
Defense, USSD, teaches this style of Kung Fu blended with
"street reality" (to make it a more practical modern self
defense system) in the countries of the United States, Canada,
and Ireland. The founder and Grandmaster of USSD is 10 degree
Don (black belt) Professor Charles Mattara. He studied with
the Shaolin Monks and recieved the rank of Shihan (the highest
ranking a martial artist can receive in a lifetime) from
Professor Nick Cerio, a member of the World Council of Sokes (Soke
is the highest above ranking honor a martial artist can ever
receive). The word Soke is a Japanese play on words meaning
"Is that so?" for people who claim to be Soke. The rank is
given only to people who have created an internationally
reknown style. Only 22 certified Soke exist.
Kyudo -
"The Way of the Bow" When the bow became obsolete as a weapon
the spiritual aspect of archery was developed as a discipline
for peace and self-cultivation. This was achieved by uniting
the vigor of the warrior tradition with the dignity of the
ceremonial. As a path for personal growth and development, the
concept of Reisetsu - respect for the other, became the moral
discipline which united these two aspects and formed the
foundation for the practice of Kyudo. In meeting desire,
negative thoughts, and physical difficulties the practice of
Kyudo offers the individual the opportunity to meet their
limitations, and to enjoy the challenge of this confrontation.
One soon realizes that the problems faced are not to be found
in the bow, or the immovable target, but in oneself. If this
is accepted and the practice is carried out sincerely then the
energy of the shooting begins to enrich one's life. Technique
cannot be considered without an understanding of spiritual
energy. Neither aspect can function without the other. The
acquisition of technique grows with the increase in body-mind
awareness to form a harmonious working together of the bow,
body and spirit.
Mowie Di Do
- Mowie di do is a
american created mixed martial art form which combines Jeet
Kune Do kickboxing, Boxing, Savate, Wing chun techniques,
Judo, Freestyle wrestling, Grappling, Kenpo applications (Ed
Parker's), Muay Thai, Arnis (Weapons as sinawali for a
example.) and Jujutsu techniques. Started as basic
self-defense style which combines judo and boxing techniques.
Adding savate footboxing styles as well. What the creator
wanted was a effective, but easy martial art form that grows
and grows with each practice. Making the practitioner more and
more confident with each movement. In better words; "whatever
technique you are training, it's the technique that would be
the foremost used in combat. Others are secondary. Just defeat
the enemy without compassion or respect." It stresses more
boxing, muay thai and savate methods in a striker format. No
katas, since the creator feels it hinders the student's
ability to focus on the task on hand. Then there's Militant
Mowie which combines each and almost every aspect of military
tactics. From everything to survive and kill if need be. The
creator theorized the technique can added more and more art
forms with ease and can be on par with some of the finest
Special Ops fighting forms. MM is very dangerous, which
requires more study into it.
Muay Thai -
(also referred to as Thai Boxing), and Savate
(also referred to as Boxe Francais). Muay Thai is the oldest
known form of kickboxing and is the primary building block of
all other forms of kickboxing. Muay Thai is the national sport
of Thailand and is one of the most popular sports in the world
today. The history of Kickboxing in Thailand however, is
clouded at best. When the Burmese army sacked and razed
Ayuddhaya to the ground the archives of Thai history were
lost, and along with them much of the early history of Muay
Thai. The first great interest in Muay Thai as a sport is
documented to have come around the year of 1584 under the rule
of King Naresuan. The King himself was well trained in the art
of Muay Thai and so were his soldiers. Soon the art spread to
the public and new fighting techniques began to evolve.
Matches were held in every town and village on a daily basis.
The sport of Muay Thai made its way to Europe sometime around
the 17th century where it was embraced with open arms. The
sport was modified, primarily to outlaw the use of knees and
elbows, and given the name Savate.
Naginata - Naginata is a
Japanese martial art form for men, women, and children. The
Naginata originated over 1,000 years ago. The Naginata is a
weapon with a rich history, utilized and refined from the Nara
Period (710-784 A.D.) to today. Employed initially by the
Bushi, it later found itself the specific weapon of the Sohei
or Buddhist monks. It is the school of the spear and, as such,
is a shafted weapon. The length of its oval shaft varied, from
5' to 8', depending on battle conditions and personal
requests. The most striking feature, however, was the blade;
it could be anywhere from 10 inches to more than 2 feet, and
was sharpened on a single side, fashioned in the manner of
either Sakizori or Uchizori. As with most shafted weapons, it
was most devastating when utilizing sweeping, circular
motions. However, thrusts with the blade and also the heavy
ishizuki on the butt end were acceptable tactical
alternatives. It was a powerful weapon against horsemen and
foot soldiers alike. The Naginata's length and weight made it
an efficient weapon against the sword, and its circular
execution made it one of the most graceful and fluid of
classical Japanese combat systems. Naginata today is an art
form that teaches etiquette, respect, patience,
self-confidence, and self-control. The practice of Naginata
nurtures stamina, beauty and grace of movement, and the
building of character through discipline and concentration.
Moreover, it prepares individuals to deal with the rigors of
life, and in establishing a moral code based on chivalry and
honor.
Ninjutsu - The
traditional Japanese method of espionage; involves stealthy
movements and the use of camouflage. Presently in the 34th
generation, this school of Ninjutsu is the only authentic
tradition which has survived the more than 900 hundred years
since it's beginnings in feudal Japan through an unbroken
chain of Grand Masters. It's Martial roots, however, extend
through history to the cradle of modern civilization, China.
Savate - Savate takes
its name from the French for old boot (heavy footwear
used to be worn during fights) and is actually an amalgam of
French street fighting techniques from the beginning of the
19th century. At that time, savate was a type of street
fighting common in Paris and the north of France. And in the
south, especially in the port of Marseille, sailors had
developed a form of fighting involving high kicks, which was
known as jeu marseillais (game from Marseille), which
was later renamed chausson (slipper, after the type of
shoes sailors wore). In contrast, at this time in England (the
home of boxing and the Queensberry rules), kicking was seen as
unsportsmanlike or as something that only cowards would resort
to. (See Muay Thai)
Shaolin Kempo - (See
Kung Fu)
Shintaido - Shintaido is
a unique combination of martial arts and body movement that
cultivates the spirit along with the mind and body. It has
been called a moving meditation. In Japanese, Shintaido means
"new body way." Shintaido's forms exemplify openness and
freedom. The movements of Shintaido provide a new way of
experiencing our relationship with ourselves, others, nature,
and the spiritual world. Shintaido is also a healing art, and
a form of artistic expression. Shintaido attracts people who
are interested in change, self development, and re-connecting
with their bodies, their community, their spiritual nature.
Shintaido was started in Japan in the 1960's under the
leadership of Mr. Hiroyuki Aoki, with a group of martial
artists, musicians, actors, visual artists, and others who
wished to combine traditional wisdom with aspirations for
peace, freedom and equality. The Shintaido philosophy is
grounded in body movement.
Shorinji Kempo -
Shorinji Kempo traces its origins back almost 5000 years to
India. From India, Buddhism spread to many countries,
including China. Bodhidharma, the sixth century founder of Zen
Buddhism, introduced kempo to the legendary Shaolin Temple ('Shorin-Ji'
in Japanese), located in Honan prefecture. Here kempo became
the main form of spiritual training for the buddhist monks and
the monastery became famous for its fighting arts. Wall
paintings can still be seen today in the Shaolin Temple of
dark-skinned (Indian) monks practicing and teaching kempo to
light-skinned (Chinese) monks. The Imperial Chinese
Government, feeling threatened, destroyed the temple and
persecuted the monks. The techniques however continued to be
taught and practiced by various secret societies as a means of
protection against bandits and corrupt officials. Many
different forms of kempo were developed and kept alive by
these secret societies.
Shorinji Ki Do
– Shorinji Ki Do, generally called Shorinjiki, is a
combination of Karate and Jujitsu. Shorinjiki combines the
blocking, striking, and kicking techniques of karate with
takedown, throws, and pressure point techniques of jujitsu.
The style also includes weapons training as a supplement to
the basic empty hand techniques creating a well rounded
martial art. The focus is on self defense rather than sport
karate. The combined karate styles include Shorin-ryu,
Goju-ryu, and Shotokan. The style advocates development of a
strong mind and spirit through learning to persevere and over
come personal challenges which can be applied to all aspects
of our lives. Shorinji Ki Do has a philosophical base that
includes development of internal strength, respectful
interactions with others, and a personal code of ethical and
social responsibility. The basics of its self defense
techniques focus on fast powerful techniques, evading and
redirecting energy, off balancing an opponent, and fluid
balanced movement.
Shotokan Karate is one of
the four main schools of Karate in Japan. It is best characterized
by its long and deep stances and its use of more linear
movements. Shotokan Karate has little of the circular
movements found in Okinawan styles of karate, nor does it have
the body conditioning and supplementary training exercises
typical for Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate. Shotokon Karate is
considered by many a sports style of Karate, where tournaments
and point-sparring are central to the art.
Shotokan training is usually divided into three parts:
kihon (basics), kata (forms or patterns of moves),
and kumite (sparring). Techniques in kihon and
kata are characterized by deep, long stances that
provide stability, enable powerful movements, and strengthen
the legs. Shotokan is often regarded as a 'hard' and
'external' martial art because it is taught that way to
beginners and colored belts to develop strong basic techniques
and stances. Initially strength and power are demonstrated
instead of slower, more flowing motions. Those who progress to
brown and black belt level develop a much more fluid style
which incorporates grappling and some aikido-like techniques,
which can be found in the black belt katas. Kumite
techniques mirror these stances and movements at a basic
level, but progress to being more flexible with greater
experience.
Silambam
- A form of stick or walking staff fighting. Beginners are
taught footwork patterns and they must master them before
learning spinning techniques and patterns, and methods to
change the spins without stopping the motion of the stick.
Footworks (Kaaladi) are the key aspects of Silambam and kuthu
varisai (bare hand version). In Silambam as well as kuthu
varisai the kaaladi (foot work or foot step) is the key in
deriving power for the blows. Kaaladi teaches how to advance
and retreat, to get in range of the opponent without losing
our defense as well as it aids very much in hitting and
blocking. It also strengthens the body immensely enabling the
person to receive blows (non lethal) and still continue the
combat. The whole body is used to create power.
Most stick fighting style grip the stick in the center using
poker grip (both hands facing down), Silambam prefers hammer
grip (main hand facing down behind the weak hand which faces
up). The strong hand grips the stick about a distance hand's
width and thumb's length from the end of the stick and the
weak hand is a thumb's length away from the strong hand.
Actually the weak hand is just touching the stick and it is
just for guiding the movement of the stick. Silambam stresses
ambidexterity (use of both hands) and besides the preferred
hammer grip there are other ways of gripping the staff.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silambam
Soo Bahk Do -
Soo Bahk Do is an ancient, traditional
Korean martial art comprising hand and foot techniques. The
art is renowned for its disciplined approach and emphasis on
the tradition and technical aspects of martial art. Like most
traditional martial art systems, Soo Bahk Do has unlimited
horizons. Consistent training leads to improvement not only in
physical ability, such as flexibility, strength, stamina and
speed, but also mental focus and application of will. These
benefits develop a sense of calm and quiet confidence in the
practitioner.Soo Bahk Do is one of the most popular forms of
Korean martial art.
Stav - Stav (pronounced
st-arv) has been described as European Tai Chi and Viking Kung
Fu. Stav is a traditional system maintained by the Norwegian
family Hafskjold for over 44 generations. It is designed to
improve mind, body, and spirit. It is said the system has been
practiced since 500 AD so it certainly is not a new style
developed from the African or Eastern styles. While these
descriptions do not cover the scope of Stav they perhaps give
a taste of what can be gained. The core of Stav is 16 stances
or body postures. These are combined with breathing exercises
to give gentle, non-impact exercise to tone and relax. This is
where the Tai Chi reference comes in. However, these stances,
with the breathing techniques, can also be combined in a
martial arts aspect that is very effective and again does not
put excessive stress and strain on the body. The full range of
Stav builds into a system to exercise the body and mind and
helps bring into balance the turmoil of the modern world.
Sumo
- Originally known as "sumai", meaning struggle, sumo began
around 20 B.C. as military combat. Sumai used most of the
modern sumo techniques, plus a variety of strikes. . It
resembled other wrestling based arts such as mongolian
wrestling and Indian wrestling. Before the 16th century almost
all wrestling was practiced for battle. Evolving after the
16th century, it eventually became known as sumo. Rules,
ranks, and a ring now make sumo into a sport of giants. The
water ceremony, the bowing, the costumes, and pageantry are
all reminders of the ancient military traditions are still
recognized today in competition. To follow a competition is
quite easy. The winner is the one who forces his opponent out
of the ring or forcing his opponent to touch the floor with
any body part above the knee, first. The techniques they
employ range from slapping (tsuppari), sweeps (ketaguri), and
a wide variety of sacrafice throws (utchari).
T'ai Chi Chuan - The
forms of Tai Chi Chuan are a traditional Chinese approach to
exercise, meditation, and personal growth. Practiced both for
health and self-defense, its graceful, flowing movements are
at the same time beautiful, healthful and powerful. Its
practice promotes an inner calm and a tranquil attitude,
enhancing self-awareness. Tai Chi springs from emptiness and
is born of nature. It is the source of motion and tranquility
and the mother of Yin and Yang. The body weight or center of
gravity of the practitioner sinks into the abdomen and trunk
of the body, thus allowing more relaxed and deep breathing.
With the mind quieted, the heartbeat slows down, and different
muscular, neurological, glandular, and organ systems function
in a more balanced fashion. The practice of Tai Chi Chuan is
harmony and understanding of the ways of the world.
Tae Kwon Do
- Tae Kwon Do is the world's most widely
practice martial art. Tae Kwon Do is a Korean fighting art
that looks very similar to Japanese karate. It is an Olympic
sport, an artistic discipline, a system of self-defense, and a
way of life. Tae Kwon Do is an artistic discipline. The
techniques are done with graceful and powerful movements.
Students continuously strive to improve the artistic
presentation of each technique. The art of Tae Kwon Do
develops posture, graceful movement, excellent coordination,
and attention to detail. We believe that everyone can benefit
from exposure to this artistic discipline.
Taido -
Taido is a scientific martial art which has
taken the essence of the traditional Japanese martial arts and
transformed it into one which can meet the needs of a modern
society. In both Japanese print and television media Taido has
been recognized as a martial art having "philosophical depth"
and "creativity". It has been deemed as "the martial art of
the 21st century". Taido is not a martial art where punching
or kicking techniques are executed along a one dimensional
line. Rather Taido's techniques are delivered by changing the
body axis and balance. It is also characterized by the use of
elaborate footwork in changing the angle of attack and by the
use of one's entire body in the martial art. Taido, moreover,
is not simply a sport as many forms of karate have become, but
also involves a special type of training which requires a
tremendous amount of self-discipline in terms of spiritual
concentration. The essence of Taido lies not in the techniques
of the art itself but in the utilization of the training
acquired in Taido for the development and benefit of both self
and society. Taido's techniques are designed with a dual
purpose in mind. Not only are they used for one's personal
defense but they play an important role in keeping one's
internal organs healthy. Based upon the theories applied in
the medical art of acupuncture, Taido has studied the effect
of the angle of body movement upon the internal organs. This
is realized, in part, through the Hokei, which are systemized
routines of techniques and movements. These improve the
students' offensive and defensive techniques while promoting
the development of their health. Taido also encompasses, and
emphasizes strongly, the breathing techniques. This is indeed
another unique aspect of Taido as compared to other martial
arts.
Tang Soo Do - Tang Soo
Do is a Korean martial art which teaches empty hand and foot
fighting, fighting forms, self-defense, and weapons. Tang Soo
Do also teaches people to live a healthy and harmonious life.
This ancient martial art traces its lineage back 2,000 years
to the Korean peninsula. Tang Soo Do not only teaches physical
techniques but also trains us to practice "DO" way of life
through practice of the five virtues; "IN" -humanity,
"UI"-righteousness, "YIE"-etiquette, "JI"-wisdom and
"SHIN"-trust. When we reach the ultimate level of "DO", we can
live in perfect harmony with the laws of nature.
Vovinam Viet
Vo Dao - The
Martial Arts Discipline known as Vovinam-Viet Vo Dao, was
founded by Master Nguyen Loc in 1938. He grew up during a
period when Vietnam was still under French colonial rule.
In that time, young men could either abide by the
French policies, or join the revolution against the French.
Master Nguyen Loc believed the only way to free Vietnam from
the colonial rule was to take those with a strong will for
liberty and independence, training them to attain a strong
body and a rational mind. He practiced hard and researched
many foreign forms of martial arts over a long span of time.
He later founded a new form of discipline, which became known
as Vovinam (Martial Arts of Vietnam). Since 1964, the title
"Viet Vo Dao" (The Philosophy of Vietnamese Martial Arts) was
added to the original, becoming Vovinam-Viet Vo Dao.
Wing Chun
- Wing Chun is the name of a system of martial arts
developed in southern China approximately 300 years ago. Its
originator, the Buddhist nun Ng Mui, was a master of Shaolin
Kung Fu and used this knowledge to invent a way to take
advantage of the weaknesses inherent in the other Shaolin
systems. This new system was well-guarded and passed on to
only a few, very dedicated students. Later, the style became
known as Wing Chun, after Ng Mui's first student, a
woman named Yim Wing Chun. More recently, beginning in 1970,
Bruce Lee, who trained primarily in Wing Chun but also some
other arts, incorporated some of its techniques and ideas into
his own Jeet Kune Do. His fame led to international interest
in Wing Chun.
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