Outlaw MMA & Fitness
What is Martial Arts?
Explore the History, Philosophy, and Disciplines that define the World's oldest Combat Traditions.
Overview
Definition & Purpose
Martial Arts are codified Systems and Traditions of Combat practiced for a variety of Reasons — Self-Defense, Military and Law Enforcement Applications, Competition, physical Fitness, mental and spiritual Development, Entertainment, and the Preservation of cultural Heritage.
The Practice of Martial Arts encompasses a wide Range of Techniques and Philosophies that vary significantly across different Cultures. From ancient Warrior Traditions to modern competitive Sports, Martial Arts have shaped Societies around the World for thousands of Years.
Etymology
Etymology
The Term "Martial Arts" is derived from the Sino-Japanese Word 武芸 (bu-gei), which translates literally to "Martial Arts." The Word "martial" refers to War or Combat, while "Arts" denotes Skills or Techniques.
This Terminology was popularized in the 1960s–70s through mainstream Culture, particularly through Hong Kong Martial Arts Films featuring iconic Figures like Bruce Lee. The Term also has Roots in Latin, meaning "Arts of Mars" — referring to the Roman God of War.
Bu-gei
The Sino-Japanese root of "martial arts" — literally translating to the skills and techniques of combat.
Arts of Mars
From the Latin — referring to the Roman god of war.
Disciplines
Categories of Martial Arts
Martial Arts can be categorized based on various Criteria — from the Techniques taught to their cultural Origins and intended Application.
Traditional vs. Contemporary
Traditional Styles may include Folk Wrestling or historical Forms, while contemporary Styles often encompass modern hybrid Martial Arts like MMA.
Armed vs. Unarmed
Armed Martial Arts involve Weapons such as Swords or Staffs (e.g., Kendo), while unarmed Martial Arts focus on Hand-to-Hand Combat Techniques like Boxing or Judo.
Striking vs. Grappling
Unarmed Martial Arts divide into Striking Disciplines (Punching and Kicking) and Grappling Disciplines (Throwing, Takedowns, and Joint Locks).
Application & Intent
Some Martial Arts are designed for Self-Defense or Combat Sports. Others focus on Choreography, Demonstration Forms, physical Fitness, or Meditation.
External vs. Internal Styles
Within Traditions like Chinese Martial Arts, there is a Distinction between external Styles (focusing on physical Techniques) and internal Styles (emphasizing mental Discipline and Energy).
Cultural Variations
Traditional Korean Martial Arts emphasize inner Peace achieved through Meditation alongside physical Training, reflecting how Culture shapes each Discipline's Philosophy.
Evolution
History & Evolution
Historically, Martial Arts evolved from practical Fighting Systems used by Warriors into structured Practices that also incorporate Elements of Philosophy and Spirituality.
In modern Times, many Forms of Martial Arts have gained worldwide Popularity as competitive Sports. Judo was included in the Olympics in 1964, Taekwondo in 2000, and Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has emerged as a prominent Discipline combining Techniques from various Fighting Traditions.
Train at Outlaw MMA
Ready to start your Martial Arts Journey? Explore our Classes or get in Touch.