Many people want to know what the best martial arts to train are. Such a question is not always easily answered, as many factors go into what one person may call the "best martial arts." The problem with many martial arts nowadays is not the art itself, but the translation of the martial art from its original source to the lineage of students that come from it. Another idea to consider is that each person's idea of "best" is not always the same. And lastly, the dedication and mastery of an instructor is the ideal way to find the "best" martial arts, not judging how good a school is ONLY on style or fancy décor.
All combat arts are the same. Some may look a little different from others, but the strategies used are universal. Therefore, there is no such thing as the best martial arts, merely superior martial artists. The quality of instruction a person receives is of the utmost importance, as many claim to teach the way but do not them selves fully comprehend the art. A person who is taught badly will produce bad students. This is the reason many people say things like, "black belts can't really fight," or "this art is better than that art." In reality, many things could cause this thinking. Insufficient training, never fully learning the art to begin with, and "adding" changes to the art can greatly modify the way it was originally conveyed. Also, many instructors of old kept many things secret, or even taught a "pseudo" art to outsiders (especially Americans) to protect their family heritage. The notion that best martial arts exist is a misconception that stems from many causes that are not seen nor understood by the general public.
A simple idea that people often don't think about is the fact that everyone values things differently. Not all sign up for MA lessons to become the most dangerous fighter around. Some students join for social reasons, exercise, or for status. The term "best martial arts" is a subjective word because it is an opinion. If by the combat arts we mean staying alive, then most certainly it is important to choose an excellent martial artist as a teacher. When a person finds "the" instructor, they will know it. It will be very obvious that this person has an ability beyond the average person and is not selling something fake. Research and expectations from the student will help him/her choose their own best martial art that will accomplish their goals.
One quality of superior martial artists lies in the example he/she sets. This person should have a sound understanding of the art they are proclaiming to be experts in and can demonstrate techniques that work and also explain the rationale behind why they work. Beware of teachers that say things like, "don't ask questions, all questions will be answered in the long run." This usually means "I don't know, but am too egotistical to admit it." Also look out for schools that don't place a strong emphasis on kata (or forms) training. This is an essential step to warriorship, and one that is very easily tossed aside nowadays. If the techniques or sparring look very sloppy and appear to be more of a kickboxing match this might not be a good realistic self-defense system. Trust your gut instinct as to whether or not it is a good fit for you and your goals.
Clearly, the best martial arts are all styles given the teacher has the knowledge and skill. A few things to think about when evaluating the "best martial arts" are the background and lineage of the martial art, the individual goals for training, and a good eye for finding a qualified, knowledgeable instructor. It is also important to keep one's personal goals in mind while searching for the best martial arts. Finding the true path to knowledge and understanding in martial arts is one well worth searching for; It is a journey that can bring satisfaction and confidence to your life.
All combat arts are the same. Some may look a little different from others, but the strategies used are universal. Therefore, there is no such thing as the best martial arts, merely superior martial artists. The quality of instruction a person receives is of the utmost importance, as many claim to teach the way but do not them selves fully comprehend the art. A person who is taught badly will produce bad students. This is the reason many people say things like, "black belts can't really fight," or "this art is better than that art." In reality, many things could cause this thinking. Insufficient training, never fully learning the art to begin with, and "adding" changes to the art can greatly modify the way it was originally conveyed. Also, many instructors of old kept many things secret, or even taught a "pseudo" art to outsiders (especially Americans) to protect their family heritage. The notion that best martial arts exist is a misconception that stems from many causes that are not seen nor understood by the general public.
A simple idea that people often don't think about is the fact that everyone values things differently. Not all sign up for MA lessons to become the most dangerous fighter around. Some students join for social reasons, exercise, or for status. The term "best martial arts" is a subjective word because it is an opinion. If by the combat arts we mean staying alive, then most certainly it is important to choose an excellent martial artist as a teacher. When a person finds "the" instructor, they will know it. It will be very obvious that this person has an ability beyond the average person and is not selling something fake. Research and expectations from the student will help him/her choose their own best martial art that will accomplish their goals.
One quality of superior martial artists lies in the example he/she sets. This person should have a sound understanding of the art they are proclaiming to be experts in and can demonstrate techniques that work and also explain the rationale behind why they work. Beware of teachers that say things like, "don't ask questions, all questions will be answered in the long run." This usually means "I don't know, but am too egotistical to admit it." Also look out for schools that don't place a strong emphasis on kata (or forms) training. This is an essential step to warriorship, and one that is very easily tossed aside nowadays. If the techniques or sparring look very sloppy and appear to be more of a kickboxing match this might not be a good realistic self-defense system. Trust your gut instinct as to whether or not it is a good fit for you and your goals.
Clearly, the best martial arts are all styles given the teacher has the knowledge and skill. A few things to think about when evaluating the "best martial arts" are the background and lineage of the martial art, the individual goals for training, and a good eye for finding a qualified, knowledgeable instructor. It is also important to keep one's personal goals in mind while searching for the best martial arts. Finding the true path to knowledge and understanding in martial arts is one well worth searching for; It is a journey that can bring satisfaction and confidence to your life.
Article by Brandon Compton, martial artist, enthusiast, and MA business owner. Check out our selection of Taekwondo equipment and other martial arts gear at http://www.taekwondoequipmentshop.com.
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