Essentials of Martial Arts

The term ‘Martial Arts’ is derived from the Roman god of war named Mars. Martial arts is a standard set of rules and conduct that are adapted to form a fighting style for combat. In addition some martial arts are part of a religious and traditional lifestyle. These are of East Asian origins like Buddhism, Taoism and Hinduism.They are recognized as not just a way of life but also a code of honor and sometimes, combat sports.

Methods of martial arts lessons in Singapore also include sparring, simulated combat and form or kata where students practice specific routines and movements as part of a training technique. Martial arts systems can be divided into different categories depending on the techniques they employ. These vary between striking, using punches or kicking, grappling, where practitioners throw or hold an opponent and martial arts that employ traditional and modern weapons.

From its earliest origins martial arts have adopted a mystical series of rules, of conduct, things like humility, respect and discipline became essential components. Many of the fighting styles can be traced back to a mixing of Indian and Chinese attitudes.  Much of this is described in Sun Tzu famous book on war from 350BC.

When European styles spread throughout the world, many of the the codes became obsolete because of the invention of modern firearms, many codes were also banned for various reasons, while some were made into performance dances and sporting events. The Olympics showcase such arts as judo, boxing, taekwondo, wrestling and fencing, all technically classed as martial arts.

During the nineteenth century with increased trade between the east and west many diplomats, merchants and engineers came into contact with they old romance fighting styles and growth in interest from their traditional homelands came resurgence in interest in traditional eastern martial arts. Hollywood became obsessed with martial arts in the 60’s with the arrival of legendary Bruce Lee. Today Jackie Chan and Jet Li help keep the interest in martial arts alive outside of China.

All martial arts lessons in Singapore have a system of testing and evaluating where students are graded and periodically assessed by their teachers. Successful passing of martial arts exams gives the student another belt or new title to acknowledge their progress. Competitions are usually for different levels or forms of martial arts and are either light, medium or full. These forms describe the amount of contact involved. Some sparring sessions require protective equipment to be worn for safety, and some moves might be banned if found to be dangerous or too violent.

Chinese Martial Arts lessons, Wushu and Kung Fu training consists of differing components. These are basics, forms, applications and weapons, which are also tied into philosophy, ethics and medicine.The basics are adapted as the main part of many of the disciplines whether internal or external.Stances, the postures or position adapted when fighting. Meditation is essential in mastering breathing and concentration. While practicing forms provide the necessary knowledge of the pattern and progression within the discipline.  Application and understanding of techniques are tested through sparring with partners both for demonstrating comprehension and public displays.