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Sports: Martial Arts

[ Background | Equipment | Where ] Background

Martial arts encompasses several forms of self-defence that originated in the Orient. The sport originated from military skills, and is based on traditions of honour and discipline. Not only do the martial arts teach you self-defence, but they are great for conditioning and stress-relief. The more common styles of martial arts in North America are Karate, Judo and Tae Kwon Do. All three are now sports in the Olympic Games.

• Karate ("empty hand") is an ancient Japanese method of unarmed combat using all parts of the anatomy to punch, kick, strike or block.
• Judo ("gentle way") is a Japanese art of self-defence using skill and speed instead of strength. Judo uses choke holds and throws for self-defence instead of punches or kicks.
• Tae Kwon Do ("way of the hands and feet")is a Korean form of unarmed combat, similar to Karate.

Equipment

The common pieces of equipment are: a uniform (Gi or Dobok), a belt and a protective cup. Uniforms and belts are purchased through your chosen martial arts academy when you register for classes.

Where