Martial Arts and Self-Defense

DID YOU KNOW?

In the United States there is a violent crime committed every 22 seconds.

There are millions of people all across the world who practice martial arts and self-defense. Some are masters of the arts while others are first-time students, but one thing that all martial arts and self-defense pupils share is a respect for the history of martial arts. This is because they respect how spiritual and sacred all forms of martial arts and self-defense are.

The history of martial arts and self-defense goes back thousands of years. It is one that is full of various different martial art and self-defense styles and techniques, one in particular being Tai Chi Chuan.

An Ancient Martial arts and Self-Defense Style - Tai Chi Chuan

Better known in its short forms, Tai Chi, or Chinese boxing, it is one of the most ancient, historical, and distinctive Chinese forms of martial arts and self-defense. This art focuses on the importance of breathing techniques and non-aggressive self defense techniques, as well as discipline and meditation.

Its masters can effortlessly fend off attackers by using graceful movements that redirect the energy or force of the attacker without having to use violent aggression. But be aware it takes years to master just the breathing and meditation techniques of Tai Chi.

Tai Chi is specifically designed to provide relaxation in the process of body conditioning exercise, which teaches its students the mental power and peace of meditation. This is why Tai Chi differs so greatly from so many of the other martial arts and self-defense styles.

Any history lesson in martial arts and self-defense needs to include Tai Chi because it was one of the very first martial art forms to be accepted and practiced worldwide.

Kung Fu

When talking about martial arts and self-defense one can also not forget kung fu, a martial art that focuses on exercise and a spiritual transcending. The various different movements that are employed in this martial art form are mostly imitations of the fighting styles of animals, and have such names as:

* Dragon
* Horse
* Snake

Kung Fu is a spectacular martial art to watch in action. If you ever get a chance go to a sparring tournament, you won't be disappointed.

The Most Well Known Martial Art - Karate

Karate is another of the major martial art forms that needs to be included in the list of prominent martial arts and self-defense styles. Karate can be considered as a form of self-defense, a form of physical fitness, or even a way of life. It is one of the most commonly practiced self-defense tactics in the world.

Karate classes can be great for kids and adults alike who are interested in getting fit and learning discipline, respect, and competition.

What About Defending Yourself On The Street?

Martial arts are definitely part of a healthy life both physically and mentally. However, when it comes to actually protecting yourself on the street they are not necessarily the most effective.

It takes years to master most martial arts and fancy self-defense techniques and because of the sudden violent and brute force of attackers even people trained in martial arts and self-defense often "freeze" in fear during a street attack. Also many martial arts moves are very complicated and can’t be instinctually remembered in a life or death situation.

At Diet Health and Fitness we recognize the importance of martial arts and self-defense in learning mental and physical health, but if you really want to protect yourself you need to the secret hand to hand combat techniques used by the military special forces, such as the Navy Seals.