Martial Arts – Define and Set Goals: Part 3

Physical Contact

Over the past several years, there has been an explosion of martial arts in the mainstream eye. This is because promotions like UFC, Pride and K1 have brought the sport into the homes of thousands via national broadcasts. These arts have a full contact type of style and many times are not traditional Asian arts, but rather they are a mixture of many different styles together:

• Muay Thai
• San Shou
• Studios that promote “MMA” or mixed martial arts. These studios will combine grappling, planted stance fighting (boxing, kickboxing), and throws and submission holds.

Competition and Sport

To train in martial arts for competitive or sports reasons takes a special breed of person. The demands and commitment to an art for competitive reasons is beyond what the vast majority or people are willing to make. There are numerous sacrifices and great mental strength is needed to overcome both physical and mental obstacles. Most studios will not offer competitive training. You will need to research and inquire where such training is available. It may not come from a studio at all but come by way of a single individual whom is a master of the art. Martial arts for shows and demonstrations include the following styles:

• Tae Kwon Do
• WuShu (especially wai jia quan style)
• Non-traditional martial arts studios

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