Training in martial arts is becoming increasingly more popular around the world, especially as people want to learn how to defend themselves for various reasons. There are so many different types of martial arts, so if you’re going to learn defence skills, which one should you choose?
Here are a few popular martial arts types for self-defence you can try learning in the new year.
Jiu-jitsu
Jiu-jitsu is a highly effective martial art for self-defence because it doesn’t rely on chance, luck, and physical power. Instead, it mainly focuses on calculated techniques and skills. Once a seasoned jiu-jitsu fighter gets hold of their opponent while standing up or on the ground, they are likely to quickly and directly apply the finishing move.
Taekwondo
Taekwondo is among the most popular martial arts for self-defence. It prioritises kicks over other hitting techniques. Since your legs are longer than your arms, your opponent rarely gets close to you. Furthermore, the legs can strike faster than the arms when attacking an opponent. This aspect makes Taekwondo unique and highly effective.
Judo
Heavyweight martial artists mostly play Judo. It primarily involves throws, locks, sweeps, and grappling. The objective of these techniques is to throw your opponent to the floor by locking their joints and holding them down. In Judo, it’s not the moves that matter. Instead, it’s the final result that counts.
Boxing
Boxing is a sport dominated by a lot of punching. You can only punch your opponent from the beltline up. Disregarding this rule often results in a deduction of points and can result in disqualification. Typical moves in this game include throwing jabs, uppercuts, etc. It’s worth noting that some players prefer aggressive punching, overthrowing strategic blows.
Muay Thai
Muay Thai is a deadly and versatile mixed martial art that can boost your self-defence. Players mostly use elbows and knees strike. You might also spot opponents grappling each other by their arms, head and shoulders to secure some close range elbows and knee hits.
Wrestling
Wrestling is among the most efficient martial arts one can train for to improve self-defence. It enhances confidence, physical strength and stability. One of its most effective moves is the double leg takedown, as it usually catches the opponent off-guard.
Krav Maga
With Krav Maga training, you become more confident when faced with situations requiring self-defence. Essentially, this game’s creators had life or death situations in mind. The game teaches you to target the various weak points and heavily attack them to neutralise the opponent as quickly as possible.
Combat Sambo
Combat Sambo makes you better at self-defence because it improves toughness. It takes bits from boxing, wrestling and judo, and combines them into one art. Notably, it’s one of the more complex martial arts to learn.
Karate
Karate primarily consists of powerful linear strikes, blocks and kicks. This martial art originated in China and is a common feature in Chinese movies. It focuses heavily on full contact sparring, competition and conditioning.
Mixed Martial Arts
As the name suggests, mixed martial arts encompasses various techniques to make you an effective all-around fighter. They emphasise improving your striking, wrestling, grappling, and other fighting techniques. You can become a proficient and almost unbeatable street fighter when you learn this. The finishing move is usually a submission or a knockout in professional fights; however, close contests are typically decided by points.
Wrapping Up
These are only a few martial arts you can use for self-defence. Each of them has its unique tactics that make you prevail over your opponent.
Regardless of your preferred choice, you need to train for at least a few months to become proficient at these sports. When you eventually become a pro, remember that some moves can cause severe injuries. Avoid using your skills to hurt others.
