ARTICLES

Page 3 Martial Arts Styles

Kumdo - Kumdo, meaning "way of the sword", is very similar to Kendo. Practitioners, using the jukdo (bamboo sword) for striking, wear a helmet and hard body protector so that they are able to practice full contact strikes to the head and body. Kumdo is an exacting art, with an emphasis on precision and attitude over speed and strength. Kumdo also encompasses practice with the wooden sword and, eventually, the sharp sword (Kumbub).

Kung Fu - An extremely disciplined, powerful martial art where strength is built in low stances and powerful blocks. Some Kung Fu blocks are so powerful that it can break the arm of someone who is punching you. Kunf Fu has many systems like Hung-Gar, WuShu, Wing Chun, and others. Kung Fu is for the patient, and mentally and physically strong person. It was the basis for many later forms of martial arts. Over the years, kung fu developed into different styles such as Wing Chun, Drunken boxing and styles based on animal movements like the crane or snake. The reason for such diversity was simple. People rarely traveled far from their homes and kung fu evolved in different locations. In northern China , martial arts emphasized kicking and leg work. In the South, various forms of boxing were most common. Top kung fu stars today have mastered different styles as well. Jet Li is best known as a practitioner of wu shu which uses many different styles emphasizing fluid motion. Jackie Chan learned kung fu while training in a Chinese opera school in Hong Kong and boosts a mastery of the "five animal styles" of kung fu which is highlighted in the film Shaolin Wooden Men. Today many kung fu styles exist and are still passed on as family traditions and through classes.

Kyudo - "The Way of the Bow" When the bow became obsolete as a weapon the spiritual aspect of archery was developed as a discipline for peace and self-cultivation. This was achieved by uniting the vigor of the warrior tradition with the dignity of the ceremonial. As a path for personal growth and development, the concept of Reisetsu - respect for the other, became the moral discipline which united these two aspects and formed the foundation for the practice of Kyudo. In meeting desire, negative thoughts, and physical difficulties the practice of Kyudo offers the individual the opportunity to meet their limitations, and to enjoy the challenge of this confrontation. One soon realizes that the problems faced are not to be found in the bow, or the immovable target, but in oneself. If this is accepted and the practice is carried out sincerely then the energy of the shooting begins to enrich one's life. Technique cannot be considered without an understanding of spiritual energy. Neither aspect can function without the other. The acquisition of technique grows with the increase in body-mind awareness to form a harmonious working together of the bow, body and spirit.

Mowie Di Do - is a american created mixed martial art form which combines Jeet Kune Do kickboxing, Boxing, Savate, Wing chun techniques, Judo, Freestyle wrestling, Grappling, Kenpo applications (Ed Parker's), Muay Thai, Arnis (Weapons as sinawali for a example.) and Jujutsu techniques. Started as basic self-defense style which combines judo and boxing techniques. Adding savate footboxing styles as well. What the creator wanted was a effective, but easy martial art form that grows and grows with each practice. Making the practitioner more and more confident with each movement. In better words; "whatever technique you are training, it's the technique that would be the foremost used in combat. Others are secondary. Just defeat the enemy without compassion or respect." It stresses more boxing, muay thai and savate methods in a striker format. No katas, since the creator feels it hinders the student's ability to focus on the task on hand. Then there's Militant Mowie which combines each and almost every aspect of military tactics. From everything to survive and kill if need be. The creator theorized the technique can added more and more art forms with ease and can be on par with some of the finest Special Ops fighting forms. MM is very dangerous, which requires more study into it.

Muay Thai - (also referred to as Thai Boxing), and Savate (also referred to as Boxe Francais). Muay Thai is the oldest known form of kickboxing and is the primary building block of all other forms of kickboxing. Muay Thai is the national sport of Thailand and is one of the most popular sports in the world today. The history of Kickboxing in Thailand however, is clouded at best. When the Burmese army sacked and razed Ayuddhaya to the ground the archives of Thai history were lost, and along with them much of the early history of Muay Thai. The first great interest in Muay Thai as a sport is documented to have come around the year of 1584 under the rule of King Naresuan. The King himself was well trained in the art of Muay Thai and so were his soldiers. Soon the art spread to the public and new fighting techniques began to evolve. Matches were held in every town and village on a daily basis. The sport of Muay Thai made its way to Europe sometime around the 17th century where it was embraced with open arms. The sport was modified, primarily to outlaw the use of knees and elbows, and given the name Savate.

Naginata - Naginata is a Japanese martial art form for men, women, and children. The Naginata originated over 1,000 years ago. The Naginata is a weapon with a rich history, utilized and refined from the Nara Period (710-784 A.D.) to today. Employed initially by the Bushi, it later found itself the specific weapon of the Sohei or Buddhist monks. It is the school of the spear and, as such, is a shafted weapon. The length of its oval shaft varied, from 5' to 8', depending on battle conditions and personal requests. The most striking feature, however, was the blade; it could be anywhere from 10 inches to more than 2 feet, and was sharpened on a single side, fashioned in the manner of either Sakizori or Uchizori. As with most shafted weapons, it was most devastating when utilizing sweeping, circular motions. However, thrusts with the blade and also the heavy ishizuki on the butt end were acceptable tactical alternatives. It was a powerful weapon against horsemen and foot soldiers alike. The Naginata's length and weight made it an efficient weapon against the sword, and its circular execution made it one of the most graceful and fluid of classical Japanese combat systems. Naginata today is an art form that teaches etiquette, respect, patience, self-confidence, and self-control. The practice of Naginata nurtures stamina, beauty and grace of movement, and the building of character through discipline and concentration. Moreover, it prepares individuals to deal with the rigors of life, and in establishing a moral code based on chivalry and honor.

Ninjutsu - The traditional Japanese method of espionage; involves stealthy movements and the use of camouflage. Presently in the 34th generation, this school of Ninjutsu is the only authentic tradition which has survived the more than 900 hundred years since it's beginnings in feudal Japan through an unbroken chain of Grand Masters. It's Martial roots, however, extend through history to the cradle of modern civilization, China .

Savate - Savate takes its name from the French for old boot (heavy footwear used to be worn during fights) and is actually an amalgam of French street fighting techniques from the beginning of the 19th century. At that time, savate was a type of street fighting common in Paris and the north of France . And in the south, especially in the port of Marseille, sailors had developed a form of fighting involving high kicks, which was known as jeu marseillais (game from Marseille), which was later renamed chausson (slipper, after the type of shoes sailors wore). In contrast, at this time in England (the home of boxing and the Queensberry rules), kicking was seen as unsportsmanlike or as something that only cowards would resort to. (See Muay Thai)

Shintaido - Shintaido is a unique combination of martial arts and body movement that cultivates the spirit along with the mind and body. It has been called a moving meditation. In Japanese, Shintaido means "new body way." Shintaido's forms exemplify openness and freedom. The movements of Shintaido provide a new way of experiencing our relationship with ourselves, others, nature, and the spiritual world. Shintaido is also a healing art, and a form of artistic expression. Shintaido attracts people who are interested in change, self development, and re-connecting with their bodies, their community, their spiritual nature. Shintaido was started in Japan in the 1960's under the leadership of Mr. Hiroyuki Aoki, with a group of martial artists, musicians, actors, visual artists, and others who wished to combine traditional wisdom with aspirations for peace, freedom and equality. The Shintaido philosophy is grounded in body movement.

Shorinji Kempo - Shorinji Kempo traces its origins back almost 5000 years to India . From India , Buddhism spread to many countries, including China . Bodhidharma, the sixth century founder of Zen Buddhism, introduced kempo to the legendary Shaolin Temple ('Shorin-Ji' in Japanese), located in Honan prefecture. Here kempo became the main form of spiritual training for the buddhist monks and the monastery became famous for its fighting arts. Wall paintings can still be seen today in the Shaolin Temple of dark-skinned (Indian) monks practicing and teaching kempo to light-skinned (Chinese) monks. The Imperial Chinese Government, feeling threatened, destroyed the temple and persecuted the monks. The techniques however continued to be taught and practiced by various secret societies as a means of protection against bandits and corrupt officials. Many different forms of kempo were developed and kept alive by these secret societies.

Soo Bahk Do - Soo Bahk Do is an ancient, traditional Korean martial art comprising hand and foot techniques. The art is renowned for its disciplined approach and emphasis on the tradition and technical aspects of martial art. Like most traditional martial art systems, Soo Bahk Do has unlimited horizons. Consistent training leads to improvement not only in physical ability, such as flexibility, strength, stamina and speed, but also mental focus and application of will. These benefits develop a sense of calm and quiet confidence in the practitioner.Soo Bahk Do is one of the most popular forms of Korean martial art.

Stav - Stav (pronounced st-arv) has been described as European Tai Chi and Viking Kung Fu. Stav is a traditional system maintained by the Norwegian family Hafskjold for over 44 generations. It is designed to improve mind, body, and spirit. It is said the system has been practiced since 500 AD so it certainly is not a new style developed from the African or Eastern styles. While these descriptions do not cover the scope of Stav they perhaps give a taste of what can be gained. The core of Stav is 16 stances or body postures. These are combined with breathing exercises to give gentle, non-impact exercise to tone and relax. This is where the Tai Chi reference comes in. However, these stances, with the breathing techniques, can also be combined in a martial arts aspect that is very effective and again does not put excessive stress and strain on the body. The full range of Stav builds into a system to exercise the body and mind and helps bring into balance the turmoil of the modern world.

Sumo - Originally known as "sumai", meaning struggle, sumo began around 20 B.C. as military combat. Sumai used most of the modern sumo techniques, plus a variety of strikes. . It resembled other wrestling based arts such as mongolian wrestling and Indian wrestling. Before the 16th century almost all wrestling was practiced for battle. Evolving after the 16th century, it eventually became known as sumo. Rules, ranks, and a ring now make sumo into a sport of giants. The water ceremony, the bowing, the costumes, and pageantry are all reminders of the ancient military traditions are still recognized today in competition. To follow a competition is quite easy. The winner is the one who forces his opponent out of the ring or forcing his opponent to touch the floor with any body part above the knee, first. The techniques they employ range from slapping (tsuppari), sweeps (ketaguri), and a wide variety of sacrafice throws (utchari).

T'ai Chi Chuan - The forms of Tai Chi Chuan are a traditional Chinese approach to exercise, meditation, and personal growth. Practiced both for health and self-defense, its graceful, flowing movements are at the same time beautiful, healthful and powerful. Its practice promotes an inner calm and a tranquil attitude, enhancing self-awareness. Tai Chi springs from emptiness and is born of nature. It is the source of motion and tranquility and the mother of Yin and Yang. The body weight or center of gravity of the practitioner sinks into the abdomen and trunk of the body, thus allowing more relaxed and deep breathing. With the mind quieted, the heartbeat slows down, and different muscular, neurological, glandular, and organ systems function in a more balanced fashion. The practice of Tai Chi Chuan is harmony and understanding of the ways of the world.

Tae Kwon Do - Tae Kwon Do is the world's most widely practice martial art. Tae Kwon Do is a Korean fighting art that looks very similar to Japanese karate. It is an Olympic sport, an artistic discipline, a system of self-defense, and a way of life. Tae Kwon Do is an artistic discipline. The techniques are done with graceful and powerful movements. Students continuously strive to improve the artistic presentation of each technique. The art of Tae Kwon Do develops posture, graceful movement, excellent coordination, and attention to detail. We believe that everyone can benefit from exposure to this artistic discipline.

Taido - Taido is a scientific martial art which has taken the essence of the traditional Japanese martial arts and transformed it into one which can meet the needs of a modern society. In both Japanese print and television media Taido has been recognized as a martial art having "philosophical depth" and "creativity". It has been deemed as "the martial art of the 21st century". Taido is not a martial art where punching or kicking techniques are executed along a one dimensional line. Rather Taido's techniques are delivered by changing the body axis and balance. It is also characterized by the use of elaborate footwork in changing the angle of attack and by the use of one's entire body in the martial art. Taido, moreover, is not simply a sport as many forms of karate have become, but also involves a special type of training which requires a tremendous amount of self-discipline in terms of spiritual concentration. The essence of Taido lies not in the techniques of the art itself but in the utilization of the training acquired in Taido for the development and benefit of both self and society. Taido's techniques are designed with a dual purpose in mind. Not only are they used for one's personal defense but they play an important role in keeping one's internal organs healthy. Based upon the theories applied in the medical art of acupuncture, Taido has studied the effect of the angle of body movement upon the internal organs. This is realized, in part, through the Hokei, which are systemized routines of techniques and movements. These improve the students' offensive and defensive techniques while promoting the development of their health. Taido also encompasses, and emphasizes strongly, the breathing techniques. This is indeed another unique aspect of Taido as compared to other martial arts.

Tang Soo Do - Tang Soo Do is a Korean martial art which teaches empty hand and foot fighting, fighting forms, self-defense, and weapons. Tang Soo Do also teaches people to live a healthy and harmonious life. This ancient martial art traces its lineage back 2,000 years to the Korean peninsula. Tang Soo Do not only teaches physical techniques but also trains us to practice "DO" way of life through practice of the five virtues; "IN" -humanity, "UI"-righteousness, "YIE"-etiquette, "JI"-wisdom and "SHIN"-trust. When we reach the ultimate level of "DO", we can live in perfect harmony with the laws of nature.

Vovinam Viet Vo Dao - The Martial Arts Discipline known as Vovinam-Viet Vo Dao, was founded by Master Nguyen Loc in 1938.  He grew up during a period when Vietnam was still under French colonial rule. In that time, young men could either abide by the French policies, or join the revolution against the French. Master Nguyen Loc believed the only way to free Vietnam from the colonial rule was to take those with a strong will for liberty and independence, training them to attain a strong body and a rational mind. He practiced hard and researched many foreign forms of martial arts over a long span of time. He later founded a new form of discipline, which became known as Vovinam (Martial Arts of Vietnam). Since 1964, the title "Viet Vo Dao" (The Philosophy of Vietnamese Martial Arts) was added to the original, becoming Vovinam-Viet Vo Dao.

Wing Chun - Wing Chun is the name of a system of martial arts developed in southern China approximately 300 years ago. Its originator, the Buddhist nun Ng Mui, was a master of Shaolin Kung Fu and used this knowledge to invent a way to take advantage of the weaknesses inherent in the other Shaolin systems. This new system was well-guarded and passed on to only a few, very dedicated students. Later, the style became known as Wing Chun, after Ng Mui's first student, a woman named Yim Wing Chun. More recently, beginning in 1970, Bruce Lee, who trained primarily in Wing Chun but also some other arts, incorporated some of its techniques and ideas into his own Jeet Kune Do. His fame led to international interest in Wing Chun.

Yes we have missed out a few but perhaps you can forward information on styles that you know about so we can include them into our list.

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