Various types of martial arts exist, with each of them having a unique purpose in combat. Some of these styles have been around for centuries, while others were developed in more modern times. What all of these styles have in common is they teach a form of fighting to their followers and allow these individuals to defend themselves when necessary.
Boxing
Boxing is one of the most well-known martial arts in the world because of its popularity as a sport. It is believed that boxing began in 688 BC at the Olympic Games in Greece, as records show people punching each other at that time. Boxing was also popular in Rome during the same time period, with combatants wearing primitive forms of gloves and contents often ending in death.
Kickboxing
Full Contact Kick boxing developed from Thai-Boxing and other Martial Arts influences, the first bouts being seen in the early 1970’s. These days however it seems to be lighter contact, with a large emphasis placed on light fast strikes scoring points.
Muay Thai
Muay Thai originated in Thailand sometime between 1238 and 1377, as it was prevalent during the Sukothai Era. There are a few different aspects to Muay Thai, including kicks, punches, knees, and elbows. A clinch is also used by many practitioners as a way to expose an opponent to these strikes.
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
One of the more popular grappling arts in the world is called Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, which is mainly based on ground fighting, although it does incorporate takedowns. Submissions are the main weapon used in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, as practitioners can either choke an opponent out or manipulate, or break, joints using pressure.
Wrestling
Wrestling is often recognized as the first martial art, as its origins go back as far as human beings have existed, as cave paintings depicting the sports are as much as 15,000 years old. More modern versions of the sport have been around since around 1100 AD, which was when it began to appear in Europe. Wrestling generally involves takedowns and ground fighting, although various forms exist.
Judo
Japanese Sport – Developed by Jigoro Kano from Ju-Jitsu, infact it was originally known as Kano Ju-Jitsu. These days it’s all about competition, it’s translated as the Gentle Way, though quite often the gentle side seems to be forgotten and there is a lot of strength used.
Sambo
A Russian Martial Art, that has split into 3 different areas, it has a pure sport side, that whilst it has been demonstrated at the Olympic Games, has not been recognised by them. A lot of similarities to Judo. It also has a practical self-defence side as well, looking at defensive techniques, lastly it has combat Sambo utilising tecniques from both of the above as well as its own, and applying its own nasty twists.