If you want to practice a self defence program, it would be a great idea to study the various forms of Chinese, Korean and Japanese martial arts so that you can make an informed choice about the style that best suits your requirements. Remember, every type has its own unique set of qualities and style that you would want to know more about before you take up self defense classes.
Korean Martial Arts
In Korea, the most popular fighting styles are taekwondo and hapkido. Both are effective self-defense forms, although it’s the former that flourished in the United States and in different western countries. Taekwondo became famous not only for its high kicks and defensive strategies but also for the teachings and philosophy surrounding it. Taekwondo and hapkido were first introduced in the United States after the Korean War.
Today, taekwondo is a recognized competitive sport in the Olympics. Training in this martial art would require use of breaking boards and fast action kicks. You need to complete each training grade to be able to earn a belt. Hapkido, meanwhile, involves less kicking and more wrist locking and throwing.
Japanese Martial Arts
There are five different classifications of Japanese martial arts:
- Aikido – developed by Morihei Ueshiba; the defender blends with the motion of the attacker and redirects the force of the attack.
- Judo – founded by Dr Kano Jigoro; the object is to throw and subdue one’s opponent.
- Jujitsu – a method of close combat for defeating an armed and armored opponent either bare handed or with a short weapon.
- Karate – a striking art using punches, kicks, knee and elbow jabs, and open-handed techniques chops.
- Kendo – sword-fighting based on traditional Japanese swordsmanship, using bamboo practice swords.[
In the United States, all these forms of fighting are taught and practiced in martial arts classes. What makes Japanese fighting style stand out is the straight line attack that it incorporates in its movements.
Chinese Martial Arts
If you ask people about Chinese martial arts, you’ll often hear the words, kung fu and Bruce Lee. That’s because kung fu is the most widely known Chinese martial arts fighting style and Bruce Lee is the most famous kung fu fighter whom even the present generation knows about.
Chinese martial arts began in 12th century and since then have branched out to several forms, with kung fu maintaining as the most famous form. The oldest forms started in Shaolin monasteries. Kung fu also has various styles and moves but it focuses on acrobatic moves and fighting techniques. Chinese fighting style emphasize on strength, balance, and weapon proficiency. Modern kung fu styles have emerged over the recent years. Some of which you’ll find in Hollywood movies starring Jacky Chan and Jet Li.
Self defence training requires a lot of dedication and effort, which is why right from the start you need to make the right decision on which particular type of fighting form to undertake. Once you’ve decided, you can buy self defence videos or go to martial arts training classes to pursue your aspiration. Make sure you choose a class or video that will give you the best kind of training. You may go online to check your choices on self defense videos or go around your location to find a worthy martial arts training school. Good luck!
For more details about self defense videos & self defense training, please visit us online.
