The various forms of martial arts are, for the most part, easy to begin learning, but incredibly hard to master. It takes years and years of practice for someone to gain the highest level of mastery, which is usually denoted by a black belt around their waist. That being said, there are many forms to choose from. These martial arts forms come from all over the world, with some being used simply for fitness, others for self-defense, and some for sporting events. Each one is different and varied. Here are the 5 most impressive forms of martial arts.
5. Karate
5. Karate
Karate means “empty hand” in Japanese, and is probably the single most popular form of martial arts in the entire world. It is a simplified form of self-defense, but it also has a deeply philosophical aspect to the entire artform.
4. Taekwondo
4. Taekwondo
Taekwondo comes straight out of Korea, and combines the usage of both hands and feet into one martial arts form. Powerful kicks are generally followed by a quick strike with the hand, though the feet and legs are the main focal point.
3. Judo
3. Judo
Judo, which means “gently way,” is a more modern form of martial arts, as it developed in the late nineteenth century. The founder, Jigoro Kano, was picked on by bullies as a youth, so he developed this form of self-defense.
2. Kung Fu
2. Kung Fu
Kung Fu hails from China, where being skilled in the art-form is far more important than simply knowing how to perform a specific movement or attack. Buddhist monks created the form thousands of years prior in an effort to improve concentration.
1. Krav Maga
1. Krav Maga
Krav Maga was developed within Israel, and has been used by military units and police departments the world over. Special Forces within the US make use of the martial art for their close combat encounters. Users are taught to inflict as much damage as possible while close up.
