Krav Maga Institute NYC : How many martial arts styles are there ?
Krav Maga Institute NYC

Krav Maga Institute NYC : Igor Dyachenko’s knowledge

Krav Maga Institute NYC : There are many martial arts styles, and this can make it challenging to pick a martial art to learn. Different styles attract different people, and you may only be looking to broaden the scope of your martial arts knowledge.

So, how many martial arts styles are there?

The short answer is that there are more than 170 martial arts styles. You should be aware that martial arts are evolving and diversifying all of the time. A great example of this evolution is karate.

What began as karate has branched off into different forms and styles. This is a natural process as karate students become masters. At this point, they begin to develop their own style, modifying the martial art, moving it in a certain direction.

Karate now has six styles, each adapting techniques, and philosophies in a specific direction.

The six methods of karate are:

  1. Shotokan Karate

  2. Goju-Ryu

  3. Isshin-Ryu

  4. Kyokushin

  5. Shito-Ryu

  6. Shorin-Ryu

  7. Wado-Ryu

Martial arts styles

The many forms of martial arts broadly fit into different fighting styles. Firstly, we have stand-up and striking martial arts. These martial arts styles include karate, boxing, kung fu, Muay Thai, Taekwondo, and kickboxing.

Secondly, we have martial arts styles that fit into the category of ground fighting or grappling. These martial arts include Jujutsu, Brazilian Jiu-Jutsu, Sumo, Luta Livre, and wrestling, as well as catch wrestling.

Thirdly, some martial arts styles focus on takedowns and throwing techniques. These martial arts include Judo, Aikido, Shuai Jiao, and Hapkido.

Furthermore, there are martial arts that specialize in weapons fighting. For example, Kendo, Kali, Laido, and Goju-Ryu karate.

There are also new forms of martial arts that combine techniques from a mix of established martial arts. Often promoting full-contact competition, these include MMA, Ninjutsu, and Jeet Kune Do. These may not be appropriate for a young child, and you might want to choose another art, such as karate.

You may want a softer, low-impact, health-centered, or meditative style. The most popular of these is Tai Chi but you can also practice Chi Gong-based styles and Baguazhang.

Igor Dyachenko teaches karate, with its many benefits to health, personal protection, and mental development. Krav Maga Institute NYC