My project is not about proving which style is superior, but which style is most efficient when it comes to self-defense. Effective at teaching self-defense, effective at fighting in self-defense situations and easiest to use. Perhaps one style may take years to learn enough to defend yourself, while other styles only take 10 months to learn enough to defend yourself. My project will attempt to make clear what styles are more apt in the area of self-defense.
When it comes to the martial arts, there are 2 main groups of thought- defense before spirit, or spirit before defense. Either the martial art style is based in the martial or the art of the martial arts. Krav Maga is very martial, while Tai Chi is very artistic. So obviously when it comes down to self defense, some styles will be more effective with less training time, because the style is based on defense and fighting.
A problem that arises from modern day martial arts is the tournament circuit. So many schools nowadays have changed their curriculum to suit the needs of the tournaments, more flashy moves and less realistic fighting styles. The sport of fighting has increased in popularity, and therefore has changed the way fighting is taught, because instead of always training to fight in real life situations, many schools teach to fight only in the safety of the ring. But, with the rise of real life self-defense classes many martial arts are reviving the self-defense aspect of the art.
It is this aspect, the resurgence of self-defense in the martial arts and in individual styles is what I am studying.
Waaler⎯
ReplyDeleteYou raise a very good point about how the martial arts have transformed in contemporary times. Your example of the tournament circuit, especially, makes this disparity evident: nowadays, "flashy" moves are indeed rewarded with three-foot trophies, regardless of how useless they may be for realistic self-defense. Ed Parker, founder of the martial arts school I train in, American Kenpo, once said, "There are no pure styles of karate. Purity comes only when pure knuckles meet pure flesh, no matter who delivers or receives." It's great that you're evaluating how well "pure knuckles meet pure flesh" in each of these styles instead of arbitrarily declaring one as "pure." I'm looking forward to seeing your conclusion. Good luck.
I believe that martial arts can allow you as the individual to become in touch with your true essence. Through training you begin to learn your strengths and weaknesses, both mental and physical. "Martial Arts Academy
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