Martial art is an extensive system of techniques and practices aimed for self-defense, fitness and competition. It is a vast field having number of styles and school of thoughts. The styles of martial arts are classified mainly with their region of origin. Some of the martial art styles with respect to their origin are explained below.
Capoeira: The Capoeira is originated from the region of Brazil. It was developed in 1500’s by African slaves who were taken to Brazil and made to work in sugar cane farms forcefully. The art incorporates certain elements of dance and music. It is a combination of complex and speedy moves.
The word capoeira is originated from the word Tupi which refers to low vegetation areas in Brazil. The weapons used in capoeira are actually tools used in the sugar cane farms such as sugar cane knife and ¾ inch rod.
As the slaves were not allowed to practice the art, they used to practice it in the form of dance. The practicing of this art in the form of dance by slaves is called roda. They danced in a circle on music produced by beating, striking or hitting objects. The dance moves include back flips, somersaults, headstands and acrobatics. The martial artist do not remain in any fixed position but keeps on moving from one leg to another to prevent the enemy from coming close.
The footwork included in the capoeira is known as Ginga. The basic kicks or hits included in the capoeira are side kick, front kick, low turning kick, high turning kick, inside kick and outside kick.
Brazilian jujutsu: Another interesting style of martial arts is Brazilian jujutsu. It is a modern style of martial art which combines judo and traditional Japanese jujitsu style. The Brazilian Jujitsu incorporates various stand-up techniques and ground fighting techniques for winning the game. Using Brazilian jujutsu martial art style, a smaller person can easily defeat a larger person. The main idea of jujutsu revolves around gaining superiority over the opponent and then applying locks, chokes and other techniques.
The training of Brazilian jujutsu is very practical. It involves practice of on ground fighting techniques without any preset forms.
Burmese boxing: It is another style of martial arts. It is also called Lethwei. It is known to be a bit hard and offensive style. It is quite similar to Thai boxing. Burmese boxing does not include equipment such as heavy bags. The training can be done alone or with a partner. The players are divided into four categories i.e. youth, novice, intermediate and professional. The players are promoted from one category to next on winning the contest. The contest involves four rounds without any time limit. A visible shock ends the round. However, the end of the final round is marked by bleeding and giving up of one of the participant. The last round is quite hard as the bleeding to end the round should be from head wound.
Apart from these styles, there are several other styles of martial arts practiced throughout the world for self-defense and spiritual & physical development.
