Martial arts that are suitable for self-defense. The most effective martial art
So, we present to your attention the author’s TOP 10 rating of martial arts for self-defense. A little about myself: my total experience in martial arts is about 10 years. Among them: kickboxing, Muay Thai, RB, jiu jitsu. I have quite a lot of experience in close communication with representatives of various martial arts both at full-contact competitions and on the street. Based on this PERSONAL experience, I compiled the corresponding rating.
I can definitely say one thing: a fight one on one and one against the crowd/crowd against the crowd are quite different in terms of requirements for technology and physicality. preparation.
I have a deep conviction that in a 1 on 1 fight, the first priority is wrestling skills + weight, preferably not extra)) In a mass battle, the first place comes out with choreographed, tempo punches to the head, and speed of movement.
Naturally, I do not deny the proverb that it is not the style that wins, but the fighter. I sure that Olympic champion judo in heavyweight with a 90% probability of amplitude, he will throw over his back against the curb, and land 2-3 light-weight boxers on his head. But we will speak on average, otherwise there will be no rating at all))
Based on the above, the possibility of martial arts to resist both one opponent and several, that is, to beat and fight, was taken as a basis. Therefore, do not be surprised that the absolute majority here are mixed species, which at first glance are not very different. They differ in history, rules, specifics of the training and competitive process and distribution area, all this leaves a significant imprint on their effectiveness on the street and their place in the ranking.
Well, the last question that is asked quite often: what is the point of comparing martial arts?
I think we shouldn’t forget that almost every one of us came to the gym in order to learn how to fight/defend ourselves. For the same reason, thousands of boys, and not quite boys, come there every day. And only over time, for those units that remain, the goal begins to change - from “defend yourself” to “become a champion.”
Short abbreviations:
MMA - mixed martial arts, mixed martial arts
BI - martial arts
RB - hand-to-hand combat
ARB - army hand-to-hand combat
So let's go!
1.Combat Sambo
Combat Sambo deservedly takes first place. Today, this is the most widespread type of full-fledged mixed martial arts in the post-CIS space with a very wide arsenal. Punches, kicks, elbows and knees, and even head strikes are allowed here!) Throwing techniques, punches and kicks on the ground, choking and painful strikes on any limbs are allowed. Fights can be carried out both with and without helmets, which is also a very valuable experience, because... A blow missed with a helmet and without it feels completely different. Combat Sambo also took first place because of all the full-fledged mixed types in Russia, Ukraine and Belarus, this type has the largest number of qualified Soviet-trained coaches and proven training methods, as well as the largest number of teaching places.
2. Hand-to-hand combat
Sports hand-to-hand combat. This species is not a full-fledged mixed species as such due to the partial castration of the ground and striking part. While standing, you cannot hit with your knees, elbows or head. You can't hit on the ground. The time of wrestling on the ground is also limited, and an unscrupulous referee can often raise him to a standing position even if one of the opponents is predominantly a wrestler, and active technical actions are being carried out on the ground.
RB took second place due to the fact that it is the most common mixed species. In small towns you may not find Combat Sambo or MMA, but you will definitely find RB! And practicing in competitions will help you separate the wheat from the chaff and use only effective techniques. Plus, a relatively small number of technical actions will help you master the basics of striking in a standing position and fighting on the ground in less time than in “full-fledged mixed events.”
3.MMA / Valetudo / Mixfight / Freefight
If we lived in another place, this direction would rightfully take first place. In America, MMA is already the most common type of martial arts, and there are a huge number of excellent gyms with professional trainers. In our country, unfortunately, this is still only a tribute to tradition. There can be good coaches in large cities, often from current or former MMA athletes. But good coaches are very rare here. All training programs consist mainly of the fruits of the trainer’s initiative and his wild imagination + scraps of knowledge from foreign colleagues seen on video or read in interviews.
4.Pankration
I put this direction in a separate paragraph, since it requires separate consideration. Pankration as a whole is an MMA event, but with some historical circumstances that distinguish it. They consist in the fact that a huge number of freestyle athletes (freestyle wrestling) perform in pankration, who take the overwhelming number of prizes at all competitions. This left its mark on training. Quite a lot of gyms train “wrestling with finishing” and wrestling + “putting hands”)). Naturally, this does not apply to all halls, but the trend is observed. A potentially very strong advantage of pankration is its ability to become Olympic form sport, in this case the pace of its development will be simply colossal.
5.Army Hand-to-Hand Combat (ARB)
One of the advantages of the style is a very wide technical arsenal, which is even wider than in combat sambo. Here you are allowed to finish off a lying opponent with your hands and feet, hit with your head, etc. Also an undoubted plus is the widespread distribution of EPIRBs and a large number good coaches. The downside is the presence of an unrealistically huge amount of protection - a helmet with a mesh, pads with feet, a vest. A helmet with a mesh is potentially especially dangerous - people who are not used to getting hit in the open face are often lost at first, and on the street this can decide the outcome of the fight, because 90% of blows fly from the right and to the nose))) This problem is inherent in fighters of ARB, KUDO and karate styles where they do not hit the head with hands, it is eliminated by the practice of contact sparring or a period of half a year - a year of boxing training.
6. KUDO
The hallmark of the style are fighters wearing aquarium helmets. Almost any action, elbow strikes and standing ruts are allowed. Among the minuses, we have a somewhat castrated ground game - there are time limits and blows. Another disadvantage of a similar EPIRB is the helmet - an aquarium. The undoubted advantage of martial arts is its wide distribution, a large number of qualified trainers, a well-developed methodological component, a large number of competitions different levels and preserving the traditional spirit and aesthetics of karate. The system is also constantly developing, experiments with professional areas are appearing.
7. Combat Ju Jutsu / Combat Jiu Jitsu
Combat Jiu Jitsu is a tribute to the fashion for mixed martial arts. To traditional Jiu Jitsu, the techniques of striking with hands, feet and knees have been added. hand-to-hand combat, boxing, kickboxing. Overall it is a fairly holistic system with a strong emphasis on the ground game. Finishing moves on the ground with hands and any painful or suffocating techniques are allowed. Pros - very good technique wrestling and throwing, fairly strict MMA rules, traditional wrestling training techniques, great emphasis on physical training. The disadvantages are a somewhat weak technique in the stand, the style is not particularly popular and widespread, and as a result, a small number of participants in the competition and a small number of good-level athletes.
8. Ju Jitsu/Jiu Jitsu
Oddly enough, many people do not know that traditional jiu-jitsu contains punches and kicks. It is also typical that full contact competitions in traditional jiu jitsu are tougher than in the combat direction, due to the fact that in some jiu jitsu competitions gloves and pads are not used at all.
Nevertheless, the advantages of this martial arts are an excellent ground game and excellent throwing technique. The downsides are the low level of punching and kicking technique, even at national championships, and a large number of charlatan coaches teaching jiu jitsu under the auspices of various incomprehensible federations that grow like mushrooms after rain.
9.Sambo
SAMBO was originally a system developed for self-defense, and was widely used by law enforcement officers. This is the only purely wrestling type of martial arts in the ranking. But he didn’t get here by accident. SAMBO for a long time was in service with law enforcement agencies, and according to statistics, with the help of its techniques, a huge number of law enforcement officers neutralized criminals and emerged alive and unharmed from many delicate situations. The key here is to practice the basic techniques to a state of automatism, so that in an extreme situation of a street collision, you can use the technique without thinking, on a subconscious level.
10. Muay Thai/Boxing classic
Thai boxing- also the only but purely striking type of martial arts in the ranking. The fact is that in Muay Thai you have the greatest freedom of action in the stand. In addition to the fact that this is Muay Thai, it is an “eight-armed” fight, that is, punches, kicks, knees and elbows are allowed, fighting in a standing position is allowed, and strikes from a standing position are also allowed. You will be taught all this in Muay Thai as nowhere else. Therefore, if you do not allow a pass to the legs, a Thai boxer has a huge chance of winning. After all, what is the probability that an experienced fighter will attack you on the street?
Well, with boxing everything is clear - firstly, here in the shortest period of time you can learn to defend yourself - due to a very narrow arsenal. Secondly, this is martial arts No. 1 when working with a group. Thirdly, there is a large number of competent specialists, many of Soviet training.
And finally, let me remind you of a couple of eternal truths:
- it’s not the style that wins, it’s the fighter
- before training, you need to inquire about the achievements of the coach himself, both sports and coaching
- you need to exercise where you want to exercise, every time you force yourself to go to training because you don’t want to, it won’t work out
- It’s better to start practicing with a friend, or better yet with several. This will allow you to kick each other so as not to miss training, and it’s more fun together + there will always be someone to pair up with.
- in most gyms you can come to a trial training session, or even several, for free. Don’t rush, go to several gyms, see different trainers, different styles, and stay where you like best.
- do not buy expensive equipment right away. The simplest things - bandages, gloves, kimonos can be bought inexpensively. Everything else, especially good companies can wait up to six months. Firstly, you need to make sure that you will stay here for a long time, and secondly, they won’t look at you askance as if you were a beginner in a $200 Hayabusa kimono with a black belt that came with it)))
From the very beginning of their history, people tried to come up with the most sophisticated techniques for inflicting pain and injuring the enemy. It all started with claws and teeth, then there was the era of sticks and stones, and gradually all this resulted in systems of a wide variety of martial arts.
Some types of martial arts are really more like an art, for example, like a dance, while others have left nothing from the battle except extreme efficiency and lethality. We will consider the latter:
An ancient martial art from Cambodia, also known as Labokka-tao. Translated from the ancient language, it is translated as “beating the lion.” Bokator originated on the battlefield, during the clash of ancient armies, and not in daily small skirmishes, so it is not surprising that this system takes into account the use various types weapons - sticks, spears, etc.
This is a Canadian invention. Today it is no longer practiced, but during the Second World War Combato proved to be an extremely lethal form of martial arts, which Canadian soldiers used against opponents (Canadians fought mainly in Italy and Northern Europe, approx. website).
Jeet Kune Do
In Chinese it sounds like " Tse-quan-dao“, translated means “The Way of the Leading Fist.” This style, developed by Bruce Lee, contains all the most effective techniques all martial arts that the “Little Dragon” mastered. For his style, Bruce chose only those elements that were truly useful in battle, putting effectiveness rather than entertainment in the foreground.
There is a unique, the only video that has reached us -.
Sib pal ki
This martial art has been in service with the Korean armies for hundreds of years. It is built on three main elements - lunge, blow, cut. Sib stick ki differs from other Korean martial arts by placing more emphasis on efficiency and less on philosophy.
Although Capoeira is now more of a dance than a fighting style, in the very beginning this fighting art was quite fearsome. It appeared several hundred years ago in Brazil, in slave settlements. Capoeira was created so that a runaway slave could defend himself if caught, which is why it quickly became banned.
Kajukenbo (kajukembo)
This American-Hawaiian hybrid appeared relatively recently, around the time of World War II. The name is no coincidence: “ka” - karate, “ju” - judo, “ken” - kempo, or Chinese boxing. The history of the origin of this martial art is interesting - it was invented by the Hawaiians for self-defense both from street gangs and from drunken American sailors.
The word, familiar to Russian ears, means “self-defense without weapons” and is a lethal combination of striking and wrestling techniques. This martial art was developed by order of the Red Army in the 20s of the last century. Sambo includes the most effective techniques and tactics of various types combat sports, martial arts and folk types of wrestling: Azerbaijani (gyulesh), Uzbek (uzbekcha kurash), Georgian (chidaoba), Kazakh (Kazaksha kures), Tatar (tatarcha korәsh), Buryat wrestling; Finnish-French, free-American, English wrestling of Lancashire and Cumberland styles, Swiss, Japanese judo and sumo and other types of martial arts.
Balintawak Eskrima
Also known as Balintawak Arnis or simply Balintawak. This martial art originates from the Philippines. The technique is so effective and sophisticated that the Spanish colonialists banned the Filipinos from practicing Baliwantak after several mass riots. The style flourished in the 50s of the 20th century.
Although the English word “spear” in translation means “spear,” the name of this type of combat is in no way connected with edged weapons. The English acronym SPEAR (Spontaneous Protection Enabling Accelerated Response, site note) means “spontaneous protection with accelerated counterattack.” The style is almost entirely based on the use of natural human reflexes and is used by many police services around the world.
GRU special forces combat system
As the name suggests, it is used by Russian military intelligence. An extremely effective fighting style, where the enemy is incapacitated as quickly and reliably as possible. Experts say that there is only one analogue in the world that is comparable in effectiveness and lightning speed - Krav Maga, used by Israeli special forces.
Krav Maga
Actually, the Israeli twin of the previous type of combat. Fast and reliable is the main message. None sports competitions Krav Maga is not held, there are no amateur sections.
Muay Thai
In its homeland it is called “the art of eight limbs”, in the West the popular name is “Thai boxing”. Due to the active use of elbows, knees, feet and legs, even sports matches often lead to serious injuries. Muay Thai is a very ancient fighting art, but it gained worldwide popularity relatively recently, after the release of the film “Kickboxer,” where Jean-Claude VanDamme played the main role.
Vale Tudo
Widely known under the names “Fight without rules”, “Mixed style Fight” or “Mixfight”. Translated from Portuguese, “vale tudo” means “anything goes” or “whatever works.” This martial art of Brazilian origin came to Russia not so long ago - the first championship in “Fightings Without Rules” took place in 1995, where Russian fighter Mikhail Ilyukhin, having reached the final, lost first place to the Brazilian champion named Ricardo Morais. Currently the most famous Russian athlete This style is Fedor Emelianenko.
This world-famous martial art is based on merging with an opponent's attack and redirecting the attacker's energy. Simply put, the enemy's strength is used against him. Leaving range to throw your opponent off balance is common. This art is so traumatic that no competitions are held in traditional aikido styles. In addition, the founder of Aikido, Morihei Ueshiba, rejected the very possibility of any rivalry: ““There are no and cannot be competitions in Aikido.”
Originally from medieval Japan, translated means “the art of being invisible.” Ninjutsu is an invention of the Japanese spy clans, or "ninjas", there is no concept of "rules". Anything can be used as a weapon; any means are suitable to achieve the goal. Ninja training began from infancy, literally from the cradle itself, which was rocked so that when it hit the wall, it helped the baby learn to group when hit. Ninjas mastered swimming before walking, they could walk along a slack rope like across a wide bridge, and the ability to “merge” with the environment for camouflage is still legendary. Usually, a clash between an ordinary ninja and an ordinary samurai did not bode well for the latter, because the samurai, with his laws of honor, was initially vulnerable. Due to their extreme unscrupulousness, ninja performers were also called “genin”, or “non-human”.
In contact with
The ability to defend plays an important role in the history of every nation. Under the influence of natural, historical and cultural factors, many hand-to-hand combat tactics were created and developed, each of which absorbed elements of the ethnic group of its country. Methods of striking and inflicting pain on an opponent became more and more effective, and over the course of many centuries, ordinary fighting with stones and sticks turned into a real martial art.
We present to your attention the 10 most dangerous martial arts in the world, each of which has transcended its country of origin and become popular in many corners of the Earth.
10. Jiu-jitsu
This is a very effective and tough way of fighting, which appeared during street fights, and is now included in the list of sports disciplines.
9. Kajukenbo
This is an explosive mixture of boxing and karate. It arose in the first half of the twentieth century in Hawaii, as a street fight. The Aborigines thus protected themselves from arriving sailors and gangs.
8. Capoeira
This method of fighting, included in the 10 most dangerous martial arts in the world, originated in Brazil during the time of slaves and their owners. Fugitive slaves defended themselves this way from soldiers and slave traders. The fighting technique was so skillful that capoeira was banned legally. But the Brazilian blacks did not want to part with it, and this struggle lives to this day in the form of a dance with combat elements.
7. Sambo
This type of struggle arose in the 20s of the twentieth century in the ranks of the Red Army, as self-defense without the use of improvised means. Sambo is a universal wrestling in which you can use not only arms and legs, but also elbows, knees, throws, jumps and choking techniques.
6. Bojuka
Bojuka is also one of the ten most dangerous fighting techniques in the world, since its use is aimed at a rapid victory over a real enemy, and there are no specific rules and prohibitions in this martial art. It arose at the end of the last century and is actively used in the training of bodyguards.
5. Jeet Kune Do
Its creator is the legendary Bruce Lee. This is a mix of many combat techniques, aimed at causing maximum damage to the enemy in a minimum of time. In this way, Bruce Lee turned pompous Chinese fighting techniques into effective street fighting.
4. GRU special forces combat techniques
Soldiers use it special purpose. There are no analogues to Russian martial art in any country in the world, so it is considered one of the most dangerous.
3. Muay Thai
This technique certainly deserves to be included in the top of the most brutal martial arts in the world. Everything is used in it: feet, knees, elbows, head.
2. Aikido
Perhaps each of us has heard about this martial art. But not everyone can master it skillfully, because aikido implies the ability to control human and earthly energy, redirect it in the right direction and fight without aggression and malice. To become a true professional in Aikido, you need to learn the ancient Eastern teachings and become spiritually enlightened; what at first glance is done very easily is achieved through incredible physical and spiritual efforts. In the arsenal of a professional, Aikido becomes the most dangerous weapon.
1. Bokator
This name translates as “fight with a lion.” This wrestling originates from Southeast Asia and owes its origin to observant men copying the habits of animals during combat. Bokator, among other “animal” martial arts, is considered the most dangerous, since, like Muay Thai, there are practically no prohibited techniques in it.
It is still not clear which martial art is best suited for self-defense? Fencing? Well, walking around gateways with a dull sword is not a good idea. Some weird martial art that's being talked about all over the world? Street fighting skills are also not always enough, because the hooligans who decide to pick your pockets most likely know them no worse than you. It’s very difficult to say right away, probably everyone has their own opinion, and for some, boxing is enough. Therefore, there is no point in extolling one martial art over others, instead we will offer 7 highly effective types of martial arts that are ideal for self-defense. Very short review and the right to choose at your own discretion.
Jujutsu
Country of origin: Japan
Also known as: juju
Nickname:"The Art of Softness"
Famous fighters: Ice-T
History of Jiu-Jitsu
Many of today's and popular martial arts styles, including judo, aikido and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, have their origins in classical Japanese jiu-jitsu.
By and large, without jiu-jitsu, the modern massacre fair would not be what we know it in its current form. It may seem to some that the Jiu-Jitsu Federation paid us extra, but in fact, many martial arts would lose their effectiveness.
So, jiu-jitsu, or as they say in Japan, jujiju, was one of the fundamental methods of samurai combat training. Well, of course, when it comes to Japan, then the matter, one way or another, is connected with samurai, or with technology, or with geishas, or with very bad porn.
As you know, the samurai’s equipment made him a killing machine, but in battle anything can happen, and in frequent cases when a warrior was left without a sword, dagger and bow, he had to fight with the last weapon he had left - with his hands and feet, and more often everything, against an armed enemy.
The literal translation of "jujutsu" can be confusing. “The Art of Softness”... are you serious!? Powerful and effective techniques, invented in order to, if not kill, then simply kill the enemy with bare hands, least of all smack of softness.
Why is Jiu-Jitsu one of the best martial arts?
Jiu-Jitsu is one of the most effective martial arts in the world because it uses the aggression and momentum of the attacker against himself. In essence, this is the art of counterattacks, self-defense in its purest form. For a chained and tired samurai, there was no point in throwing himself at the tip of a spear or sword; it was easier for him to kill the enemy with his own energy. In addition, hitting armor with your hands and feet is not entirely effective, but dodging, intercepting a blow and impaling the enemy on his own weapon is quite useful.
The basic principle of jiu-jitsu is “not to go into direct confrontation in order to win”, not to resist, but to yield to the onslaught of the enemy, only directing his actions in right side until he is trapped, and then turn the enemy's power and actions against him.
Combat techniques of jiu-jitsu are based on knowledge of human anatomy, physiology and psychophysiology, as well as on filigree technique brought to the point of automatism and the nuances of strategy and tactics of fighting. There is no place for all sorts of dance steps and film-style techniques. There is only one task: destroy your enemy or enemies as quickly as possible, using any methods in your arsenal.
Taekwondo
Country of origin: Korea
Also known as: Taekwondo, Taekwon
Nickname:"The Path of the Brush and Fist"
Famous fighters: Barack Obama, Steven Seagal, Jessica Alba, Willie Nelson
History of Taekwondo
Taekwondo is very closely intertwined with the history of Korea itself, and this is probably why last years is developing as successfully as Kim Jong-un’s southern neighbor.
There were originally nine kwans (schools) of taekwondo that were recognized by the Government South Korea. Each school had its own unique style of taekwondo. In 1955, the nine kwana were combined into the one that is commonly studied today. In order to describe the history of this art in more detail, a separate article will be needed, it is enough to just say that all political events, including the notorious Korean War, had a strong impact on the appearance of martial arts.
Why is Taekwondo one of the best martial arts?
In films with high intensity martial arts, when a fighter kicks quickly and vigorously in one frame, he is most likely using taekwondo. Actually, powerful high kicks are what make taekwondo so effective look martial arts
The main beauty of taekwondo is not only that good hit legs can incapacitate an opponent, but the fact is that this martial art is extremely effective against several opponents. Unless, of course, they know taekwondo.
The word “taekwondo” is made up of three words: “tae” - leg, “kwon” - fist (hand), “do” - art, the path of taekwondo, the path to improvement (the path of the hand and foot).
Taekwondo is the only martial art on this list that is an Olympic sport. But Olympic restraint and fear of lethal outcomes did not make it any less effective.
Krav Maga
Country of origin: Israel
Also known as:"Contact fight"
Famous fighters: Eyal Yanilov
Story
Krav Maga has long been recognized as one of the best martial arts for self-defense in the world. This type of martial arts owes its birth to the outstanding fighter Imi Lichtenfeld. He initially taught his fighting system in Bratislava to help protect the Jewish community from Nazi militias. He created a group of trained young men with characteristic surnames and noses, who did their best to protect the Jewish population from the growing, and at the same time very radical, manifestations of anti-Semitism.
After arriving in Palestine, Lichtenfeld began teaching hand-to-hand combat in the Haganah. After the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, he became the chief instructor in physical training and hand-to-hand combat at the Israel Defense Forces Combat Training School. Lichtenfeld served in the IDF until 1964, constantly developing and improving his system. After his retirement, Krav Maga was adapted to civilian realities. In fact, Krav Maga is his brainchild.
Why is Krav Maga one of the best martial arts?
Krav Maga is designed to quickly neutralize a threat. The techniques are simple and often very dirty. However, the Jews did not have to choose. There is even a saying: “If the technique looks good and beautiful, then it is not Krav Maga.”
There are three main principles of Krav Maga:
The most important thing is to neutralize the threat.
- Simultaneous defense and attack. Unlike many martial arts styles, Krav Maga's attacks and defenses are intertwined throughout the fight.
- All blocks are built to open the fighter up for a counterattack.
All Krav Maga attacks target vulnerable areas of the human body, such as the eyes, face, throat, neck, groin and fingers. There is no place for ceremony, philosophy and other nuances inherent in martial arts. This art was created to quickly and as painfully as possible eliminate an opponent. That is why it was adopted by the Israeli Defense Forces. There is no need to bow to the military, the military needs to kill, or at least cut them down.
This is a deadly fighting style that respects no etiquette. It was born on the basis of combat techniques of other martial arts, in street fights with Jewish pogromists with exactly one goal - to help the Jews survive. So if you need a simple and effective way to survive in real conditions, and not a beautiful ceremonial martial arts with your inner culture, then all your attention is on Krav Maga.
Aikido - martial art of Steven Seagal
Country of origin: Japan
Nickname:"The path of harmony of spirit"
Famous fighters: Steven Seagal, Matt Larsen
History of Aikido
Aikido is not exclusively a fighting system. The founder of Aikido, the legendary Morihei Ueshiba, studied several areas of traditional jujutsu, kenjutsu, as well as the art of calligraphy. Based on the knowledge he gained, he formed his own system - Aikido - as opposed to traditional bu-jutsu (the art of killing). Aikido - budo (the way to stop killing), teaches the killing techniques of bu-jutsu, but not for the purpose of killing, but with the goal of stopping them, making a person strong, helping others, uniting all people on the basis of love. As they say, goodness must come with fists.
Ueshiba once said: “Controlling aggression without causing harm is the art of peace.”
Aikido is also a highly spiritual martial art. The word aikido means “the way of harmony of spirit” (“Ai” means harmony, “ki” means spirit or energy, “do” means way, road or way).
Why is Aikido one of the best martial arts?
As a preface, Aikido is one of the most difficult of all Japanese martial arts. If you want to quickly, in a short time, learn self-defense, then aikido is not your help here.
Aikido is a derivative of jujutsu, and similarly emphasizes merging with the opponent's attack, redirecting the attacker's energy, and ending with a painful hold or throw. Aikido fighters use the aggression and inertia of an opponent to disable him or render his attacks useless.
However, one should not think that since mastering aikido takes a long time, and the style itself promotes peace and tranquility, then it is of little use. This is one of the best martial arts suitable for self-defense.
Wing Chun - Bruce Lee's martial art
Country of origin: China
Also known as: Ving Tsun
Nickname:"Singing Spring"
Famous fighters: Bruce Lee, Robert Downey Jr., Christian Bale
History of Wing Chun
The history of Wing Chun is a mixture of facts and legends. The majority is that it was developed in the 17th century as an offshoot of one of the more complex styles of martial arts studied by hard-nosed Buddhist monks. There is talk of a nun named Umei who created a martial art that could be effective regardless of size, weight or gender.
Why is Wing Chun one of the best martial arts?
Like other wushu techniques, it is based on the “chi sao” technique - “sticky hands”, thanks to which the fighter learns to constantly be in contact with the enemy with his hands, feel all his movements and prevent him from carrying out his techniques. But Wing Chun fighters fight on short distance, where you can reach the enemy with your hand, or even better, with your elbow. In order to break through to a fairly close distance, special types of movements are used. Kicks are used in combination with punches. Usually the legs hit the opponent's knees simultaneously with the upper level attack with the arms.
What Wing Chun masters are truly proud of is their balance between attack and defense; they can attack and defend at the same time. And real masters are famous for their ability to choose a position wisely, so wisely that it is literally impossible to take them by surprise.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu - the martial art of Chuck Norris
Country of origin: Japan/Brazil
Also known as: Jiu-Jitsu, Gracie Jiu-Jitsu
Nickname:"Human Chess"
Famous fighters: Carlos Gracie, Helio Gracie, BJ Penn, Joe Rogan, Paul Walker, Michael Clarke Duncan
History of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Like Aikido, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is an adapted version of Jiu-Jitsu. Brazil is very fond of martial arts, and therefore they were happy to develop the technique shown by the outstanding jiu-jitsu master Mitsuyo Maeda during his visit to the sunny country.
The founders and creators of Brazilian jiu-jitsu (bjj) are the brothers Carlos and Helio Gracie. Carlos showed the knowledge he received from Maeda to his many brothers, trying to teach the eastern wisdom to everyone except the frail and too young Helio. The disgruntled boy, who already had a complex from the fact that he was much younger and frailer than his brothers, took and developed the basics of Brazilian jiu-jitsu. This new style of martial arts allowed him to use leverage and choking rather than brute force to control the fight.
But the real popularizer of martial art was Helio’s son, Royce Gracie. While performing in the UFC, he used BJJ techniques to easily put down opponents many times taller and heavier than himself. After Royce’s success, the popularity of BJJ increased significantly.
Why is Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu one of the best martial arts?
BJJ is undoubtedly one of the most effective styles martial arts in the world. Almost all MMA and UFC fighters have studied BJJ intensively. The style teaches fighters to use leverage and proper weight distribution to defeat stronger opponents.
Creating leverage is isolating an opponent's limb into a specific body position that will force the joint to move in a straight line (rotate on its axis) outside of its normal range of motion. As the pressure on the limb increases, the opponent, who was unable to avoid this position, surrenders. He can surrender verbally or pat the opponent several times (patting oneself is dangerous because the opponent may not hear). Choke is used to disrupt the oxygen supply to the opponent's brain, which can cause them to become unconscious if they do not surrender soon enough. It's clear how dangerous and deadly it is dangerous look sports, therefore, in some countries, BJJ sections and tournaments are not approved by law.
Muay Thai
Country of origin: Thailand
Also Known As: Thai boxing
Nickname:"The Art of Eight Limbs"
Famous Fighters: Tony Jaa
History of Muay Thai
Muay Thai is a Thai martial arts style with very deep roots. The national Thai fighting style, which is not only a sporting but also a cultural heritage of the country. The secrets of Muay Thai were passed down from elder warriors and fathers to children, from generation to generation, and perhaps it was thanks to this traditional struggle that Thailand, surrounded by sworn enemies, managed to survive through the ages.
A most cruel spectacle from which one could emerge either victorious or defeated. They fought for life and death, in the literal sense of the word. It was impossible to give up - shame and contempt for life, so the defeated one left the battle either severely beaten or dead.
Over the years, only one thing has changed in Muay Thai - thanks to the introduction of points, it is no longer necessary to die, but the martial arts itself has not become softer, and deaths are still not uncommon.
Why is Muay Thai one of the best martial arts?
Muay Thai is not only one of the most effective martial arts styles in the world, it is also one of the best martial arts for self-defense. In modern Muay Thai, you can strike with fists, feet, shins, elbows and knees - because of this it is called "eight limb fighting". Essentially, every part of the body turns into a weapon, a deadly weapon. Hands became daggers and sabers; elbows with clubs and hammers; the knees are like axes, and the shins and forearms protect the body like armor. There are many discouraging lethal blows that at one time helped Muay Thai achieve a number of impressive victories over representatives of other martial arts. And to this day this severe martial arts evokes sacred fear and admiration in everyone.
Let's start with the fact that the most best school- the one that suits you personally, your physical fitness and seeing yourself in martial arts. You can succeed in any of them if you have the desire - but to master the heights of sumo, an asthenic person, for example, will have to spend more time. In the end, martial arts are the same training, only with striking or throwing techniques.
Different types of martial arts develop different qualities and even muscle groups. Some of them teach you to use the opponent’s energy, others are aimed at practicing powerful punches, others - with legs, and others will build up endurance or develop jumping ability.
In some ways, martial arts are reminiscent of yoga: in them you can find your spiritual path, or you can take only the technique and learn to stand up for yourself. Below is a description of the most popular types of martial arts that will help you decide on the choice of school.
Jujutsu
This martial arts is suitable for those who want to learn self-defense techniques. Jiu-jitsu emphasizes the fighter’s skills on the ability to defend himself, free himself from holds, and use tactics not of attack, but of using the enemy’s strength to his advantage.
Kicks and punches are present, but the technique does not descend into hand-to-hand combat. The main thing here is the effective use of energy (your own and others), which allows you to defeat a larger and stronger opponent. Jiu-jitsu is not an aggressive type; this martial art improves dexterity and dexterity.
Taekwondo
This Korean martial art is so popular that in 1988 it was included in the program Olympic Games. Translation of the name into Russian: “the path of the hand and foot,” which clearly hints at the upcoming mastery of the art of striking with all limbs. Taekwondo combines both offensive combat and self-defense techniques; moreover, it is an exercise, an official sport, meditative techniques and an entire Eastern philosophy.
In the modern state of taekwondo, the emphasis is on defense and control. The emphasis is placed on kicks from a standing position, since legs can reach further and cause more damage than hands. Martial arts techniques include various sweeps, painful holds, open palm strikes and grabs.
Aikido
One of the youngest martial arts in Japan. Just like many martial arts of the Land of the Rising Sun, Aikido includes physical and spiritual practices. It is also effective in developing strength, agility, and the ability to stand up for oneself - regardless of physical characteristics. Aikido is an art of defense for everyone, because there are no restrictions on age or physical development.
Aikido techniques mostly involve using an opponent's attack, controlling his energy, strength and movement, which ends with throws or grabs. The name itself reflects this: “aiki” means “connection with power”, “do” means the path.
Wushu
A very spectacular full contact sport. This Chinese martial art has a lot of strength, acrobatics, jumping, balancing, beautiful poses and strikes (like in the movies). Another name is kung fu, since the term “wushu” itself refers to all traditional Chinese martial arts.
There are hundreds of subtypes of wushu, in some places there is more acrobatics and “stagecraft”, in others there are powerful strikes and techniques, sweeps and “twirls”. The main thing you need to know before choosing this martial art is that wushu develops strength well, and the fighting styles taught in Russian schools Kung Fu, reminiscent of Thai boxing.
Judo
Translated from Japanese - “soft (flexible) path.” Judo is based on throws, painful holds, and choking. Movements should be economical physical strength, there is less waste of energy, but more improvement of the spirit, more self-defense, more sports training. More than 20 million people practice judo all over the world, as it has a good educational character and teaches harmony of soul and body.
Unlike boxing, karate and other striking styles, judo explores hand-to-hand combat techniques only for throwing and grappling. This martial art formed the basis of other modern martial arts: the creators of aikido, sambo, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu practiced it.
Despite sports orientation and following the competition rules, no one would want to meet a judoka in an extreme situation. These are always prepared people who will repel any villain in a dark alley.
Sambo
Sambo is a system of self-defense without weapons, which was developed in the USSR. The martial arts are based on judo, Armenian koch, Tatar kuresh and many other martial arts.
Practical sambo is based on a set of effective defense and attack techniques that have already been practiced over centuries of donor martial arts. It is noteworthy that sambo is constantly developing, incorporating new techniques and techniques into its arsenal. The philosophy of martial arts resembles the principles of the GTO: physical development, readiness for self-defense, detaining the enemy, instilling moral fortitude.
Karate
Or karate-do, translated from Japanese as “empty sleeve.” From 2020, martial arts will become an Olympic sport, although initially it was a hand-to-hand style for self-defense.
Nowadays karate is incredibly popular, in part due to spectacular demonstrations. Masters on demonstration performances show the strength and power of practiced blows, breaking thick boards with a palm strike or splitting blocks of ice.
Unlike many Japanese martial arts, karatekas do not use holds, painful and choking techniques. But they know how to hit the opponent in vital points of the body with precise and powerful blows. Crushing and biting urakens, spectacular and swift ura-mawashi-geri... Perhaps you cannot find a more Japanese style.
Boxing
Boxing is a classic that there is no point in talking about in detail. It is only worth mentioning that this sport produces fighters who REALLY know how to work with their hands, and it is difficult to compete with them in a street fight. By the way, everyone remembers the star’s fight UFC Conor McGregor with professional boxer Mayweather? Same thing.
If you want to sign up for a boxing class, you should know about some nuances. Firstly, it is difficult for a boxer to cope with an armed opponent, and secondly, with kicks. The third point is that in an extreme situation you will not have gloves, a referee, ropes or a girl with a sign. On the other hand, dodging punches and knocking out is in the blood of boxers, so attack and defense are balanced here.
Thai boxing
Muay Thai is a martial art in Thailand; it is very popular all over the world and competes with karate, judo and sambo. Perhaps this is the art of combat that is closest to a real fight. The rules are tough here, but the blows are the same. Here there is full contact, striking techniques with hands and feet, and the targets are the most vulnerable places on the body.
Grappling and throwing are also important, especially chokes. If you master this martial arts, you will be able to confidently walk through the most dangerous areas city (but it’s better not to anyway), because the training will be harsh. The Thais are preparing real fighters without rules who can withstand any opponent.
You may find it difficult to balance training and public speaking at work, as you will sometimes have bruises on your face and grab marks on your neck.
Kickboxing
Another type of martial arts that prepares you for real fights. Kickboxing was formed by karate masters who did not want to obey sports rules martial arts A new style absorbed kicking techniques from several eastern directions and fist technique boxing
Kickboxing is popular in culture because it is spectacular, dynamic and somewhat “bloody” - full contact leaves cuts and bruises, so athletes usually use a mouthguard, a helmet (to protect the head from kicks) and a groin (for girls - a cuirass).
Kickboxers are similar to CrossFitters in that they build strength, endurance, coordination, speed and flexibility.
Professional boxers, Muay Thai, judokas, sambo wrestlers are always dangerous opponents. Choose the martial arts you like, but don’t forget: best fight- the one that did not take place. In this sense, running can also be called a martial arts for real pacifists.
Well? Which of these directions did you like? Maybe it's time to go for a trial training session? Book a lesson using our free Sport Priority mobile app near your home or work in your city, plan your training schedule and learn useful facts and stories from the world of sports in your spare time.
