There are many different types of martial arts in the world. Some are more popular than others, but each has its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks. In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the most popular martial arts and discuss what makes them so special. We’ll also provide a brief overview of each style so that you can decide which one is right for you!
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ)
BJJ – Introduction
The first martial art on our list is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. This grappling-based discipline is one of the most popular styles in the world, and for a good reason. BJJ is an incredibly effective self-defense system that can be used by people of all sizes and strength levels.
BJJ – History
BJJ was developed in the early 20th century by Japanese immigrant Jigoro Kano. It is a descendant of Judo, which was itself based on Jujutsu. BJJ first gained prominence in the Gracie family, who used it to great effect in Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) competition. The Gracies popularized BJJ through their successful use of the style in various MMA tournaments, and it has been growing in popularity ever since.
BJJ – Benefits
The benefits of BJJ are numerous. First and foremost, it is an incredibly effective self-defense system. BJJ focuses on using leverage and technique to defeat larger and stronger opponents. This makes it an ideal martial art for smaller people or those with less physical strength.
BJJ is also an excellent workout. It is a full-body workout that will improve your cardio, flexibility, and strength. BJJ is also a great way to meet people and make friends. The community is typically very friendly and welcoming, and you’ll quickly develop relationships with other practitioners.
BJJ – Drawbacks
There are some drawbacks to BJJ as well. First, it can be quite challenging to find a good instructor. There are many bad teachers out there, and it’s important to do your research before you commit to any one program. Second, BJJ can be quite dangerous if not practiced properly.
There is a risk of injury any time you train, but this risk is increased when grappling with larger, stronger opponents. Finally, BJJ can be quite time-consuming. It takes a long time to master the techniques, and you’ll need to commit to regular training in order to see any real progress.
Gi vs. No Gi
One of the first decisions you’ll need to make when starting BJJ is whether to train in the Gi or No Gi. The Gi is the traditional uniform worn in BJJ, and it consists of a jacket, pants, and a belt. The No Gi is a more modern approach that does not require the use of a uniform. Both have their own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the one that is right for you.
The Equipment You Will Need
If you’re interested in training in BJJ, there is some equipment that you’ll need to get started. First, you’ll need a gi (a uniform worn by practitioners). Second, you’ll need a mouthguard and groin cup (for men). Third, you’ll need a rash guard (a shirt worn under the gi to prevent friction). Finally, you’ll need a pair of grappling shorts (worn during No Gi training).
See also, our Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Gi Guide.
Taekwondo
Taekwondo – Introduction
The next martial art on our list is Taekwondo. This Korean striking art is one of the most popular in the world and is an official Olympic sport. Taekwondo focuses on using kicks and punches to defeat opponents and is known for its spectacular kicking techniques. However, taekwondo practitioners will mostly use their fast and powerful kicks to their advantage.
Taekwondo – History
Taekwondo was developed in the 1940s and 1950s by a group of Korean martial artists. It is a descendant of earlier Korean fighting styles, as well as influences from Chinese Kung Fu and Japanese Karate. Taekwondo first gained international prominence in the 1970s, when it was featured in the Olympics for the first time.
Taekwondo – Benefits
The benefits of taekwondo are similar to those of other martial arts. It is an excellent workout, it builds discipline and self-confidence, and it is a great way to meet people and make friends. Taekwondo is also a great form of self-defense. The kicks are particularly effective, and you’ll be able to defend yourself against larger opponents with ease. You will also develop speed and become very explosive and precise with your kicks.
Taekwondo – Drawbacks
There are some drawbacks to taekwondo as well. First, kicking can be difficult to master. It takes a lot of practice to develop the proper technique, and you’ll need to be very patient. Second, if you are a larger, heavier person, you might struggle to keep up with the smaller, lighter practitioners. Since taekwondo requires a lot of jumps and twists, heavier practitioners might have a difficult time executing the techniques properly.
The Equipment You Will Need
If you’re interested in training in taekwondo, there is some equipment that you’ll need to get started. First, you’ll need a dobok (a uniform worn by practitioners). Second, you’ll need a mouthguard and groin cup (for men). Third, you’ll need headgear and possibly shin guards. Fourth, you’ll need gloves and foot pads.
Karate
Karate – Introduction
The next martial art on our list is Karate. This Japanese striking art is one of the most popular in the world and has been featured in many Hollywood movies. Karate focuses on using punches and kicks to defeat opponents and is known for its unique punching techniques. However, karate practitioners will use a variety of different techniques to their advantage.
Karate – History
Karate was developed in the Ryukyu Islands in what is now Okinawa, Japan. It is a descendant of earlier Chinese Kung Fu styles, as well as influences from Japanese Jujutsu. Karate first gained international prominence in the 1950s, when it was featured in the World Karate Championships.
Styles Of Karate
Karate is a very diverse martial art, with many different styles practiced all over the world. The more popular styles are Shotokan, Wado-Ryu, Shito-Ryu, and Goju-Ryu. Each style has its own unique techniques and philosophies. The most effective, however, is the Shotokan and Goju-Ryu styles due to their focus on power and precision while also having dedicated sparring sessions.
Karate – Benefits
The benefits of karate are similar to those of other martial arts. It is an excellent workout, it builds discipline and self-confidence, and it is a martial art that focuses heavily on tradition, culture, and respect. Karate is also great since it offers both striking and grappling techniques. This makes it a very well-rounded martial art, and you’ll be able to defend yourself in a variety of situations.
Karate – Drawbacks
There are some drawbacks to karate as well. First, karate is not the most effective martial art in a real-life self-defense situation. This is because karate relies heavily on techniques that may be to focus on proper technique and form. Second, many karate schools avoid sparring and competition. This means that you might not get the opportunity to test your skills against other practitioners.
The Equipment You Will Need
If you’re interested in training in karate, there is some equipment that you’ll need to get started. First, you’ll need a gi (a uniform worn by practitioners). Second, you’ll need a mouthguard. Third, you’ll need gloves, headgear, and shin guards. Fourth, you’ll need a belt to signify your rank.
Muay Thai
Muay Thai – Introduction
The next martial art on our list is Muay Thai. This Thai striking art is one of the most popular in the world and has been featured in some high-production movies, unfortunately not enough, in my opinion. Muay Thai is a striking-based martial art and is known as the “Art of Eight Limbs” due to its use of punches, kicks, knees, and elbows.
Muay Thai – History
Muay Thai has a long and rich history, dating back hundreds of years. It was developed in Thailand as a means of self-defense against invaders during times of war. Muay Thai later gained popularity as a sport and eventually became one of the most popular striking-based martial arts in the world.
Muay Thai – Styles
There are two main styles of Muay Thai: Nak Muay (Thai boxing) and Muay Boran (ancient boxing). Each style has its own uniqueness. Muay Boran is rarely ever practiced anymore, as it has been replaced by the more modern Nak Muay style.
Muay Thai – Benefits
The benefits of Muay Thai are similar to those of other martial arts. It is an excellent workout, it builds discipline and self-confidence, and it is a martial art that focuses heavily on tradition, culture, and respect. You will develop powerful kicks, punches, and elbows with Muay Thai, making it an excellent striking art. You will also come to understand the culture which surrounds the sport and gain a new level of respect for the Thai people.
Muay Thai – Drawbacks
There are some drawbacks to Muay Thai as well. First, Muay Thai doesn’t have almost any grappling techniques besides the clinch. This means that if you’re up against a grappler, you’re at a disadvantage. Second, Muay Thai can be dangerous if not practiced properly. The techniques used in Muay Thai are designed to maim and injure, so it’s important to always train with proper safety gear and a qualified instructor. Cuts from elbows and knees are also very common in Muay Thai.
The Equipment You Will Need
If you’re interested in training in Muay Thai, there is some equipment that you’ll need to get started. First, you’ll need a pair of shorts and a shirt (preferably without buttons or zippers). Second, you’ll need gloves, hand wraps, shin guards, a groin guard, and a mouthguard.
Boxing
Boxing – Introduction
The next martial art on our list is boxing. Boxing is a striking-based martial art that has been around for thousands of years and is one of the most popular sports in the world. Boxing is often referred to as “the sweet science” due to its technical nature.
Boxing – History
The history of boxing is long and rich. It is thought to have originated in Ancient Greece and was later practiced by the Romans. Boxing then spread to England, where it gained popularity as a sport. In 1892, the first modern boxing rules were codified, and the sport has been growing in popularity ever since.
Boxing – Benefits
The benefits of boxing are similar to those of other martial arts. It is an excellent workout, it builds discipline and self-confidence, and it teaches you how to defend yourself in a real-life situation. Boxing is also known for its focus on proper technique and form. If you can master the techniques of boxing, you will be a very formidable opponent.
Boxing – Drawbacks
There are some drawbacks to boxing as well. First, boxing is a very dangerous sport. Head injuries are common and can often lead to long-term health problems. Second, boxing is not very effective against opponents who are trained in other martial arts. Boxing relies heavily on punches, and if your opponent knows how to, for example, take you down or hold you back with kicks, you will be at a severe disadvantage.
The Equipment You Will Need
If you’re interested in training in boxing, there is some equipment that you’ll need to get started. First, you’ll need a pair of shorts and a shirt (preferably without buttons or zippers). You’ll also need gloves, hand wraps, boxing shoes, and a mouthguard.
Wrestling
Wrestling – Introduction
The next martial art on our list is wrestling. Wrestling is a grappling-based martial art that has been around for thousands of years and is one of the most popular sports in the world. Wrestling is often referred to as “the tough man’s sport” due to its physicality. More often than not, most wrestlers are very strong and explosive athletes.
Wrestling – History
The history of wrestling is long and rich. It is thought to have originated in Ancient Greece, which even put wrestling in the Olympic games and was later practiced by the Romans. Wrestling then spread to all parts of the globe and has been growing in popularity ever since.
Wrestling – Benefits
The benefits of wrestling are similar to those of other martial arts. It is an excellent workout, it builds discipline and self-confidence, and it teaches you how to defend yourself in a real-life situation. Wrestling is also a great base for MMA since most of the UFC champions have a good wrestling background.
Wrestling – Drawbacks
In my opinion, there are a few drawbacks when it comes to wrestling. The first is the fact that it is an incredibly physically demanding sport. If you are not in good shape, wrestling will be very difficult for you. Another thing to keep in mind is that wrestling is a sport that requires a lot of dedication and time. It is not something you can just pick up and do once in a while; you need to be willing to put in the hours to become good at it. Most distinguished wrestlers started wrestling when they were only a kid.
The Equipment You Will Need
If you’re interested in training in wrestling, there is some equipment that you’ll need to get started. First, you’ll need a singlet (a one-piece wrestling uniform). Second, you’ll need headgear and a mouthguard. Third, you’ll need wrestling shoes.
Conclusion
There are many different martial arts to choose from, and each one has its own unique benefits. It is important to do your research and find the martial art that is right for you. Hopefully, this guide has helped you in that process! Thank you for reading.
