We always have been fascinated on how Asians do it in movies. They always seem to be like flying in the air. Understanding the continent’s rich history will give us a glimpse on the varied forms of martial arts that came from them. Here are the top five of the most potent and popular forms of martial arts hailing from Asia.
Aikido
Aikido is a martial art from which originated from Japan. It was developed by Sensei Morihei Ueshiba after putting together all his beliefs in the fields of martial arts, philosophy and religion. The main goal of Aikido is to defend oneself while at the same time protecting their opponent from serious injury. Thus this martial arts is focused on blending with the motion of the person attacking and redirecting this force rather than doing a head-on collision with it. Aikido practitioners uses very little physical strength as they are mostly using entering and turning movements, as well as throws, joint locks, and safe falls.
Karate
Karate is another martial art form that originated from Japan. It was developed from indigenous fighting methods and was characterized by striking methods using the fists, knees, feet, elbows, and hands. Like Aikido, Karate also became a philosophical practice for most of its practitioners. Karate is known not only for teaching fighting skills but also for instilling values, ethical principles, and spiritual appreciation among its students. Nowadays, most people practice karate not only as a sport and self defense mechanism but also for self perfection and cultural preservation.
Judo
Like the previous martial art forms that we discussed, Judo also came from Japan.
It was developed by Kano Jigoro. Judo became closely associated with Jiu Jitsu and these two have been borrowing and lending techniques from one another. Judo had been known for its grappling techniques which enabled individuals to become capable of throwing or pinning an opponent to the ground, immobilizing him to the point of submission. With Judo, even physically smaller players gain leverage over bigger ones as long as he or she knows how to strike properly.
Muay Thai
Muay thai is a combat sport hailing from Thailand. It is the national sport of the said country. Literally speaking, Muay Thai translates to “eight limbs”. Muay Thai or the Art of Eight Limbs makes use punches, kicks, elbows, and knees in striking methods. These eight points of contact are seen as an advantage of Muay Thai over other martial art forms that uses only four or two points of contact (as in boxing). Several mixed martial artists have included Muay Thai techniques in their routines.
Kung Fu
Kung Fu is a very popular martial art form as it has been the subject of many films. Kung Fu has been developed from several fighting styles indigent in China. Wushu is another term connected to Kung Fu. However, these two martial arts are distinct from one another. Kung Fu literally means Chinese martial arts, while Wushu directly translates to method or skill.
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