According to USGyms.net, there are several hundred martial arts systems practiced worldwide. While the objective of most martial arts is to protect yourself against attack, many traditions are connected to a spiritual or religious practice such as Buddhism. While some martial arts emphasize striking, blocking or throwing techniques, others are more meditative and incorporate slow, graceful movements or elements of dance. The practice of martial arts is a balanced union between artistry, aestheticism and physicality. Three of the most popular martial arts in the United States are karate, judo and tae kwon do.
Karate
According to George Washington University, karate is “a martial art, or fighting method, involving a variety of techniques, including blocks, strikes, evasions, throws, and joint manipulations.” The practice of Karate originated in Japan, and is divided into three aspects: kihon (basics), kata (forms) and kumite (sparring). Karate involves the use of well-placed blows by your hands or feet in conjunction with special shouts delivered from a poised stance. Karate is a highly dynamic martial art, and is an effective all-around workout that develops coordination and agility.
Judo
According to JudoInfo.com, judo is many things to different people, including “a fun sport, an art, a discipline, a recreational or social activity, a fitness program, a means of self-defense or combat, and a way of life.” Judo, which means “gentle way,” stresses the importance not only of attack and defense techniques, but also physical conditioning for the attainment of total health. Judo teaches self-discipline and respect for yourself and others, and it helps you gain leadership skills, concentration and self-confidence, along with coordination, power and flexibility. Judo is well-known for its throwing techniques, but the martial art also incorporates pins, armlocks and other grappling techniques.
Tae Kwon Do
Known as “the way of the fist and foot,” tae kwon do is a Korean martial art that emphasizes strong kicks, punches and blocks, along with the development of speed, power, focus, accuracy and balance. According to tkd.net, tae kwon do is an Olympic sport, an artistic discipline, a system of self-defense, a way of life and the world’s most widely practiced martial art. Considered an “artistic” martial art, tae kwon do incorporates graceful techniques and powerful movements to help you develop sound posture, self-confidence, body awareness and improved coordination and stamina.
About this Author
Martin Hughes is a chiropractic physician and freelance writer based out of Durham, N.C. He writes about health, fitness, diet, lifestyle, travel and outdoor pursuits. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in kinesiology at the University of Waterloo and his doctoral degree from Western States Chiropractic College in Portland, Ore.
