What do you think makes a good Martial Art style?

Question

I will think hard about the answers, but if I can't find one answer I like the most: I will allow the question to be open for voting.

Answer 1

Everyone will seek something different from the martial arts, and many will stay for reasons other than those they first sought out training for.

Personally, I believe a martial arts system must involve a cohesive multi-pathed journey that enlightens the practitioner physically, spiritually, mentally, and emotionally. A true martial arts should attempt to develop the whole person to be a better, more complete, more rounded person - not just a better fighter, or a tougher opponent.

Any art which includes learning, philosophy, social awareness, physical challenges, spiritual concepts is worthy of the term martial arts system or style. Any art that simply focuses on one element is lacking in overall benefit and outlook and for me personally, does not rate the martial art system or style title.

I adhere to the idea that martial arts training should make you an all around better, more peaceful, more confident, more happy, more sympathetic, more friendly, more helpful person that you were before you began training. I realize this does not always fit the more recent affection many have for such things as UFC, or MAA which are often seen as pure sporting events, but as an instructor who is pretty long in the tooth - it's the small changes in people lives that make martial arts powerful, not their ability in the ring.


Ken C
9th Dan HapMoosaKi-Do
8th Dan TaeKwon-Do
7th Dan YongChul-Do

Answer 2

I tend to be more honest than worring about getting best answer, this wont be any exception.

I think not only good but the best martial art is the one that works for you... plain and simple. The answer to this will be diff. for each person. Some think that tradition is best while others think eclectic forms are better. Some like one single system while others like a hoge poge. For me I take from what I have learned and if it works it stays, if it dosen't it go's ---plain and simple. I train for pure self defense of myself and others. I care nothing for kata, points and all the "other stuff" that is cramed down "martial artist" in an attempt to influence or control. To some that means I'm only a thug or streetfighter, to me that is ok if someone thinks that. I can be labled a thug or streetfighter and you can be labled a martial artist. If ever the need arises I'd take my way of thinking over "theirs" anyday. I practice Martial Skill, not an Art. I am dedicated to Aikido, BJJ/MMA and practice Kali when ever I can. For me this is the way. For you it is, without doubt, different. That is not only ok it is best.

Answer 3

something that has a good practical usage - there is no point learning how to do something if it will only work if ur attack is standing in that position, in that stance, grabbing like that or attacking with that. A good martial art should prepare you for all attacks and teach you for all situations

Answer 4

try Shotakan, Japanese style

Answer 5

lots of blood and splatter and blood and boom and headshot and even more boom!!!11 kung-fu is cool