The Martial Arts are both ancient and contemporary. There are different views on why the techniques that are taught work: body alignment combined with the manipulation of one's internal energy (Ki, Chi, or Qi), or more scientific approaches such as body mechanics combined with biophysics and basic physical laws.

Martial arts began in India with Buddhism. From India, they spread through Asia into China, Korea, Okinawa, and finally mainland Japan. Originally practiced in secret by Buddhist monks, the martial arts are now a part of daily life for almost a billion people around the world.

However mystical the arts seem, their power and effectiveness can be directly linked to basic physics concepts such as Newton's three laws of motion.

Different styles emphasize different techniques. Karate is full of linear, direct, powerful strikes and blocks. Jujitsu emphasizes compromising your opponent's balance. Aikido is based on circular motions and the redirection of your adversary's own power. Taekwondo focuses on extremely fast kicks and quick back fist strikes.

However, all of today's arts evolved from the same history. Elements of each can still be seen in the others. Several of the traditional Shotokan karate kata are recognizably Wudan in origin.

Many martial arts techniques are based on geometric shapes: right angles, triangles, and circles are common in the movements, attacks, and blocks of all styles. Other systems are based on the behavior and movements of animals, such as the Shaolin kung fu animal forms. Examples are the tiger, dragon, preying mantis, and phoenix styles.

 

 

The top image is from the 2002 National ISKF tournament in Orlando, Florida. The bottom image demonstrates yoko-geri kekomi, a side thrust kick.