What is the best form of martial arts; and how do I learn it?

Question

I'm 16 and male, and I lift weights. I don't necessarily want to learn how to "kick someone's a**" (although that would be nice to include, too). What I really want to learn is how do defend myself in as many situations as possible, as well as the philosophy behind the art form.

What form of martial art should I learn?
What is the best way to learn that form?

Thank you!

Also, i'm 1/8th Chinese, so I have a slight bias towards Chinese forms of martial arts.

I'd love to hear about all the forms, too, so tell me whatever you can! Thanks again.

Answer 1

EVERY Martial Art has it's own strength and weakness, So there is NO such thing as a "best" Martial Arts discipline, only GOOD Martial Artists or practitioners who've trained to perfect their techniques.

I've studied Martial Arts for the better part of 15 years (particularly Tang Soo Do and Hapkido; both are Korean Martial Arts disciplines.)

During this time, in my opinion the whole of Martial Arts (meaning EVERY discipline in the world) can be divided into two main groups Standing Game and Ground Game.

A Standing Game Martial Art is classified by fighting techniques that are used when the opponents are on their feet, Examples are: Tae Kwon Do, any disciplines of Karate (Goju Ryu, Shotokan, Isshinryu, Kenpo, etc.), Capoeira, Arnis, Muay Thai.

A Ground Game Martial Art is ANY discipline that involves ground fighting or wrestling on the ground, Examples are: Judo, Jujitsu (Japanese or Brazilian), Hapkido or Aikido (which also uses throws and joint locks and manipulation, but they also focus on ground fighting techniques).

studying one (or more) discipline that falls within each type of these two catagories will give you a well rounded fighting ability in handling yourself in a fight both when you kick or punch while your on your feet, and if your opponent happens to take you to the ground.

But the first thing you must do, is find out what Martial Arts disciplines are available to you where you live, and try out the classes on a trial basis (like a week or two if the class allows) and then enroll in the classes if they interest you.

Make sure that they emphasize perfecting your technique and not try to move you "through the turnstyles" or "sell" you your belt ranks; meaning that you actually earn your belt ranks, and actually take the time to teach you the proper way to learn your techniques.

You must also train on a regular even daily basis, whether in class or on your own, because your instructor can only do so much in teaching you, YOU must perfect your technique and work to improve yourself, because no matter how long you study Martial Arts, you're never going to "Master" it all, the belt you wear around your waist has no reference to what you actually know, it only means you've met the proper requirements to progress further.

Another thing is, that they shouldn't focus on how many tournaments their students have won or placed in, or how many trophies the school has on the walls, while it is impressive to have such winnings and accolades, but they are otherwise unnecessary because competition is the LEAST important aspect of Martial Arts.

so you should look for a good school and not a "Mcdojo's" or cookie cutter school or organization.

A Martial Arts school is the best way to learn Martial Arts, books and videos are only good for reference to perfect or research new ways to perform the techniques you will learn.

If there is a type of Chinese Martial Arts discipline near you and you are partial to it, then I suggest you begin there.

you're also taking a more active role in exercising bu adding weight training, Martial Arts will add another degree of muscle toning, flexibility, and coordination, as well as provide you with a good cardio workout if you are not already doing so.

good luck in finding a GOOD place to train my friend, no matter WHAT discipline you decide, it's good to have a good foundation to build on.

Answer 2

I have never trained in karate, but it is much, much more than "just punches and kicks, that anyone could do without experience"; besides the best techniques are the simple ones. Effectively using those simple moves, of course, is a whole different story. As to which martial art you should study, it depends on you. Take a look at the dojos near where you live, ask questions, try out a free class if available, and then decide.

Answer 3

Uhm to be truthfull, there is no best martial art. There are a lot of good ones, but not a single one is the best. For all around, I would say kung Fu, but like I said there is no best art. Learning a lot of different styles would be the best. Ground offense and defense/ standing, countering and defense with a weapon would help you shape a best martial art

Answer 4

As a Taekwondo Instructor I would suggest visiting the different types of schools in your area. Each Martial Art has its strengths and weaknesses. Even in Taekwondo each school will teach and focus on different aspects of the art.

Talk to the instructors and find out which school is best for you.

Answer 5

There is no best art, only a best artist.
The quality and frequency of your training far outweigh the style of your training.
Please do yourself a favor and find a good school, not a good style.
Tips:
Never pay for rank testing
Never sign a contract
Research the teachers claimed lineage

Answer 6

I think one martial art won't do. I recommend learning at least two, one for standing fight and one for ground fight. My favorite are Boxing and Wrestling. If you are really committed you can practice also some fencing; for the weapons aspect. These arts will enhance your mental, and physical qualities as well. They'll get you really ready for fighting if you take them seriously, and put some effort.

Answer 7

If you want to learn the best form of self defense possible....learn brazilian jiu jitsu. Period.

Best way to learn is to sign up at a school that teaches it.

Answer 8

You should learn from the best instructor in your area. Visit schools, talk to instructors & watch classes before deciding.
The best way to learn is from that instructor.

Answer 9

there are three areas you need to be proficient at to be the baddest dude you can be. take the formula of the ultimate fighting championship. you need to be well versed in jiu jitsu, wrestling, and some sort of striking- my preference being muay thai kickboxing. learn those three skills and you'll be one bad mofo

Answer 10

Tae Kwon do would be about the best and learn it from a YMCA or an instructor with experience