Martial Arts – Define and Set Goals: Part 2

Protection/Defense

Probably the second most common reason why people take a martial arts class is to learn techniques and methods of how to protect themselves from physical threats. This is a very important motivating factor, and if you have experience physical harm first hand, then this can be a very strong and personal motivating factor. The following arts are by no means the only ones that teach you self defense, but they are notable as having defense as a major focus of their training:

• Hapkido
• Krav Maga
• Other various non-traditional arts centered on defense. Woman’s courses and law enforcement are popular.

Cultural Interests

Another strong and compelling reason that some enter martial arts is to learn about the cultural aspects of the particular art. Many of the arts have long and interesting histories and can require deep immersion into the art in order to fully understand and benefit from it. Some martial arts that are deep with tradition originate from China, Japan, and Korea. There are many, many different arts available, so contact a studio in your area for more information.

• Lado
• Shaolin Kung Fu
• Shotokan Karate
• Wing Chun
• Bujinkan
• Kuk Sool Won

In the class or practicing at home, you will need quality equipment to enhance your training experience.