List of Martial Arts - Deadly Martial Arts Techniques

Karate

Karate-do (or simply Karate) is essentially an art of selfdefense, but it is also far more than just a physical sport. It is a marvelous synthesis of physical, mental and spiritual disciplines. Karate learner employs techniques of hitting, jabbing and kicking. Karate rules out the use of a weapon. Training includes the fundamentals, Kata (form), basic Kumite (sparring) and free Kumite. Karate developed over a long period in ancient China. Later, it was introduced to Okinawa, gradually becoming a unique art of combat. Since 1922 when it was introduced from that island to Japan, it has made remarkable progress, going through many scientific modifications. There are many Karate styles and in most countries the sport is rather fragmented. In Japan today, lessons are offered by city wards, suburban
cities, towns, prefectures, etc., as well as at the Dojo of the various Karate schools and within the school system itself.

Judo

Judo is a unique art of self-defense developed in Japan from the art of grappling with one’s enemy and defeating him on the
battlefield. The fundamental Judo technique is to utilize the strength of the opponent to one’s own advantage.
Beginners first learn falling methods and then throws, strangles and hold-downs. Practice is done in white, plain Judogi, consisting
of trousers, jacket and belt or Obi. Dr. Jigoro Kano (1860–1938) organized modern Judo by modifying and coordinating the two schools of Jujutsu, a major martial art in the Edo Period (1603–1867). He also devised a scientific training system based on modern athletic principles. The Kodokan in Tokyo is the headquarters of Judo in Japan. Offices in prefectures, city wards, suburban cities, towns, etc.,
hold classes from time to time. All Judo activities in Japan are controlled by the All-Japan Judo Federation, including members from schools, business firms, police, Self-Defense Forces, public and private Dojo (drill halls).

Aikido

Aikido is half sport, half religion. It means an elevation from the traditional physical arts to a spiritual martial art. Its techniques incorporate woven elements of philosophy, psychology and dynamics. The basic form is the circle and the straight, upward line. Created in Japan by Morihei Ueshiba (1883–1969), Aikido embodies the principles of Judo, Karate and Kendo into one form of non-body contact self-defense. It features throwing exercises, holding techniques and “atemi” or a body blow aimed at keeping one’s opponent’s power in check. Adherents of Aikido claim an ability to lead an opponent’s “ki,” spirit power, and to throw him with little effort, sometimes even without touching his body. This martial art is performed without a weapon, as a rule, but one may be used if an opponent is armed. Practice is usually performed in either a white Judogi or Japanese Hakama (split-skirt). In Japan today, lessons are given in city wards, towns, prefectures, etc. and visitors are welcomed to observe practicing.

Kendo

Kendo (literally the Way of the Sword) or Japanese fencing is an ancient martial art still practiced widely throughout the nation. It is practiced with the long Japanese sword, Katana, and with its bamboo counterpart, Shinai. Historically, this form of defense was refined during the Muromachi Period (1392–1573), but not until the Edo Period did the now common protective clothing and bamboo stave appear allowing for safe competition and demonstration. In 1952, the original type of Kendo was reborn as a sport, having renounced its martial character. A Kendo match is engaged in by two opponents wearing a protective mask, a breastplate and gloves and both people wielding a bamboo sword. The match is won by effectively hitting the three parts of the body and jabbing the throat.
Classes in Kendo are offered in city wards, suburban cities, towns and prefectures. One begins by learning the forms, striking at the air in various ways with a bamboo sword. In December, each year, the All-Japan Championships are held in Tokyo under the auspices of the All-Japan Kendo Federation, which was formed in 1952.