List of Different Fighting Styles

Many martial arts have their roots in Asia, are steeped in ancient traditions and philosophies and have been practiced for hundreds of years. When searching for fighting techniques, it is important not to forget their origins. Many styles and techniques are relatively new, while some older ones have provided a foundation for contemporary fighting styles.

  1. Wudang Kung Fu

    • Born in Wudang Mountain, China, Wudang-style kung fu is an ancient martial art that has influenced a wide variety of internal fighting arts such as tai chi, bagua and xing yi quan. Unlike many fighting styles, Wudang kung fu focuses on internal energy. The movements are smooth and fluid but very powerful when used masterfully.

      Wudang kung fu is famous for its weapons forms, such as the staff, broadsword and jian (double-sided sword). Before 1989, only local Chinese citizens could go to the mountain and ask to be taught. In 1989 it opened to outsiders and anyone could to learn. Prospective students have to study diligently for at least a year before a master decides whether or not to accept the student's request to be taught.

      Wudang kung fu is rooted in Taoism, a philosophy usually taught in conjunction with Wudang kung fu training. Wudang Mountain draws more foreign students every year, eager to learn this ancient fighting style.

    Taekwondo

    • One of the world's most widely-practiced martial arts, taekwondo is a Korean fighting style, heavily influenced by karate. Its forms emphasize kicks, using the long-reach of legs to injure an opponent, rather than punches. The linear movements are similar to those used in karate.

      South Korean soldiers are trained in the art of taekwondo because of its effective combat techniques. In addition to kicks and punches, a taekwondo practitioner must learn breaking techniques to earn a black belt. Breaking teaches concentration, power and focus. Any hard part of the body can be used in taekwondo breaking, including the fist, foot, elbow and head. In 2000, the International Olympic Committee made taekwondo an official Olympic sport.

    Karate

    • The Japanese fighting art of karate dates back 1,400 years. Karate is influenced by two main fighting styles: Shaolin kung fu and Okinawa-te, a fighting style practiced by the inhabitants of Okinawa, Japan. Karate's movements are linear, and focus on a variety of techniques, such as strikes, evasions and joint manipulations. A karate student will begin his training by learning the basics, before moving onto forms called "kata." Once kata is mastered, sparring training begins. In addition to fighting and defense, karate also emphasizes humility, strength and overcoming indecisiveness.