In the ancient times of eastern Asia, common villagers and natives were restricted from carrying weapons. As a result, it cultivated into some of the various weapons found in Ninjutsu and Karate. The villagers used farming tools as their weapons of defense, hence learning the art of self-defense in a newly artistic but deadly form. Many other styles originated from circumstances of oppression as well.

Styles such as Shaolin Kung-Fu and Capoeira are some of the examples. African slaves in South America hid their training methods behind the dancing movements portrayed in Capoeira. The art seems like a dance, but it is more than a dance. It is altogether a fighting art. That way their oppressors could not tell that they were practicing self defense.

Today the martial arts have grown in great lengths. In areas like China, students were not allowed to train under more than one style. Today however is a completely different time. In Countries like USA, students are open for possibilities to learn more styles. It is a great advantage, especially for those looking to learn the art of self-defense. Martial arts are ‘a beautiful art’, philosophy and health-building activity to increase the mind, body and spirit’s well-being.

Here Are Tips on How to Choose a Suitable Style:

1. Do Your Research: If you are a beginner, it does not usually matter. However, it is advisable to do research on the various styles that are out there, so to include your area. Once you’ve done your research, see whether there is a school in your area enlisted under that style.

2. Know Your Body Type: Some martial arts styles tend to focus a lot more on gymnastics and flexibility, while others focus on strength-building and stamina. If your body is very flexible, kung fu, Capoeira or Tae Kwon Do and other related styles are for you. If your body is adaptive, Tae kwon do, Tang Su Do, Shotokai, Jeet Kune Do might be your area of excelling.

3. Know the Difference: There are two categories in the arts. Hard & soft- hard styles such as Kyokushin Karate, Shotokai, and Tae kwon Do can be seen as strength-building. While soft styles like Judo, Aikido, and Tai Chi can be seen as internal yet strength-building altogether.

It is important to know that a style can encompass both flexibility and strength-building. The main focus is self-defense, therefore it is important to remember since one must understand himself better to better defend himself. In the modern world of martial arts, knowing more than one style is a recommended luxury. There are many benefits to training martial arts as well. The idea of sport martial arts introduces opportunities for one to explore possibilities of learning and growing in the art.