Home

Martial Arts

History, Martial Art Styles, General Information.,,
     Chinese, Japanese, Korean Philipino

Individual Styles: Aikido Bunjinkan Capoeira  Ki-Aikido Hoshinkido Hapkido Iaido  Karate  Jendo  Judo  Ju-Jitsu Kung Fu  NinJutsu Taekwondo San Shou  Shaolin  Sindo  Tai Chi  Wado-Ryu  
Regional Associations and Resources

Mostly Commercial         
Wrestling
(all forms)

General Information on Martial Arts
 
    Martial Arts History
  History of Martial Arts "The history of the martial arts is complex and not well documented however, some evidence of early martial arts is known...With records of martial arts being practiced in China as early as 5000B.C, the Chinese influence on modern hand to hand combat is unmistakable"... Read on
Brief History of Martial Arts   or History2 
History of Martial Arts in Europe  a nice site with a lot of well-presented information on styles in the European Countries.
Historical European martial arts
   an educational non-profit organization dedicated to the study and practice of historical fencing and the exploration and promotion of our Western martial heritage.
The Roots of Martial Arts
Training links for Martial Arts from Challenger Martial Arts
 
  Martial Arts Styles
  Martial Art Styles  articles, Who is who, FAQ on each style
Martial Arts History and Styles  a resource collection from various sources.
Overview of Selected Martial Arts - brief summaries of some of them
Overview of the  Martial Arts 
USADojo - learn about martial art systems from this encyclopaedia by origin or style
  Virtual Library: Martial Arts  the first stop for all links to the martial arts
  Martial Art news Tracking the latest articles and news about martial arts across the web, especially tutorials, history and lineage articles, and other topics. It allows you to submit an article that will be reviewed by all and will be promoted, based on popularity, to the main page.
  Martial Arts Media  * Martial Arts portal features web search, directory, images, videos, news, discussion groups and much more.
Martial Arts Tutor  Free video tutorials and articles for 18 different martial arts.
Mixed Martial Arts
MMA Station     a well resourced Mixed Martial Arts directory on the web with a large database of fighters, organizations, schools, fight gear, news sites and forums - everything MMA
Fight Link mixed Martial Arts Magazine; information, articles, headlines, events, fighters..
 
   General Information on Martial Arts- various links covering range of information, arranges alphabetically
  Agatsu a reality based martial arts training.  Agatsu is not a new martial arts style but rather a system of self defense. Site includes forum, articles, training tips, links, photos and much more
Ask Sensei -a Martial Arts site using a question and answer format, intelligent, healthy and artistic approach. English and Spanish
Australian Martial Arts Association  for the furtherance of all martial arts in Australia without prejudice towards race , colour , gender , sexual preference or political and religious beliefs;. it provides membership to both traditional and eclectic styles of martial arts, representing many Karate styles plus Kung Fu , Tae-Kwon -Do , Judo , Ju-Jitsu Aikido , weapons arts and Kick-Boxing
Black Belt magazine for self defence; news, articles, dictionary, resources and pronunciation.
Black Belt International This unique website gives the opportunity to network world wide and develop student exchanges and much more Have a virtual tour of your club online FREE, not just a listing, a professional website networking worldwide to develop martial arts.
British Martial Arts Association  articles, information and a members only section
Martial Arts Definitions with Full descriptions on all styles and forms with their history, and Weapons
 
  IFMAOM  The Governing Body and International Headquarters of the International Federation of Martial Arts and Oriental Medicine; to provide support and Promote the development of Martial Arts & Oriental Healing Arts and Medicine in the World through mutual cooperation, friendship, education, international seminars and training camps.
Internal martial Arts (under reorganisation); information for students of serious internal martial art study with useful information and materials for practical study and do not aim to be the most complete oracle for all information
Karate Depot  provides information covering, history, technique, organisations and equipment  for the major martial arts
Kixa -  Central Power Ancient Indonesian Knowledge, developing the natural inner strength of the body through breathing techniques called Central Power. Creating a formidable self defence system suitable for women and men.Withstanding blows to the body and punching solid iron are some tests of Central Power. Non contact system.
Black Belt Magazine  for those who are new to the martial arts and may not know where to start, to provide a solid foundation from which to research a specific art, find a school and a suitable instructor suitable to your needs, and have the information you need to get started in the martial arts.  
Martial Arts Org - Iran-Features player profiles.
Ultimate Martial Arts server, covering styles, legends events, Dojo finder, search engines.... 
Koo Self Defence A unique complete total body cardiovascular workout program for health, fitness, street self defense and martial arts training developed by Master Roger Koo. A home training video series is available.
Overviews of Iaido, Kendo, Jodo  from the British Kendo Association
 

Chinese Martial Arts  
  Chinese Martial Arts Introduction to 
Internal Chinese Martial Arts
Chinese Boxing in Northern Ireland;
Chinese Boxing International "to teach, research and preserve the Chinese Boxing Energy related arts. These arts are useful vehicles in the pursuit of truth related to realistic martial art"
International Chinese Boxing Association newsletters, events, hall of fame..
Yong Tjun history and philosophy from the Belgian Missing Link School
Chinese Martial Arts  a comprehensive look at the subject
 
Japanese Martial Arts  The arts associated with Japan are:
 Aikido, Judo, Jujutsu, Japanese Sword Arts, Ninpo and Ninjutsu

 
See individual styles for detail
 

top

  Winjutsu information source for Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu, Ninpo, Ninjutsu and other Traditional Japanese Martial Arts
 
Korean Martial Arts  

top

  Tae Kyon, Korean Martial Art Form  officially classified as an Intangible Cultural Asset No. 76 by the government of Korea. But centuries ago when tae kyon was created, it was a means for fighting battles as well as for protecting one's family and property. And for a long time afterward, it continued to stand as one of the most formidable fighting methods in existence.
Korean Martial Arts FAQ  a compilation of information acquired over the years from
various sources, but it is FAR from complete
 
Filipino Martial Arts

top

  Filipino Martial Arts Magazine articles, information, events, news, seminars, techniques, etc.. pertinent to the Filipino martial arts.
History of Filipino and Indonesian Styles from the Magda Institute California
Filipino Stick Fighting Modern Arnis is a Filipino martial art which emphasizes self-defense against various weapons.  It is a very practical art like Kenpo.  It teaches how to defend against an armed or unarmed attacker. Arnis utilizes two 25” rattan sticks in many of its techniques. 
Skirmen or armed combat; history and philosophy from the Belgian Missing Link School, including Filipino Stick fighting
See Jendo

Martial Arts Styles

Aikido

Aikido is a practical, healthy, non-violent, non-aggressive Japanese martial art developed early in the 1900's by its founder, Morihei Ueshiba (1883-1969)., now known as O-Sensei (venerable teacher). In Japanese, Aikido means: "The way of coordinating the mind, body, and spirit of the practitioner." Aikido looks almost impossible when watching a skilled performer (man or woman) defeat several attackers at a time. While it looks difficult, after training it really is not. Anyone who spends the time and effort to learn this incredible martial art can walk through life with confidence. Aikido training involves physical, mental, spiritual and ethical disciplines. It includes empty hand techniques and defenses against multiple attackers, knife, gun, and club.  More ....from the American Institute of Martial Arts     See also Aikidofaq

Contact our Aikido Librarian, Duncan, from the www.Aikido4Beginners.co.uk  if you have  questions to ask about Aikido
                                                                                        UK  USA Australasia

top
  Aikido FAQ  - a great way to learn about the martial art.
Aikido Philosphy from .com
Aikido Portugal   APADA  Portuguese Aikido organization, since 1975.
Aikiweb The source of Aikido information with a strong links portal
International Aikido Association  information about aikido, our organization, the member federations from nations around the world, issues and projects on our agenda, aikido events past and coming, and more
Shodokan Aikido founded by Kenji Tomiki Shihan. History, competition, pics, clips...Aikaido FAQ Tendoryu-Aikido Tendoryu Aikido in Berlin, Kawaraban - translations from Master Shimizu, gallery, media page and information on training.
Aikido videos on U-tube  by Duncan Francis
Aikido
- a beginners guide by Duncan Francis

Aikido in the UK
    The Ellis Schools of Traditional Aikido "It is our aim to keep Traditional Aikido alive in the UK".  
    Aikido UK / USA from 1955; Henry Ellis a direct student of the legendary master Kenshiro
    Abbe sensei.  Origins of the Martial arts in the UK;
   Kenshiro Abbe  Biography   See Kyushindo above,  the teaching and philosophy of
   Kenshiro Abbe sensei
 
Akaido in the USA
   The American Institute of Martial Arts in New Haven, Connecticut - Aikido school teaching
   world class martial arts for health, fitness and self defence. Chief Instructor Bob Liedke is an
    Internationally known martial arts writer and star of Panther Production video series,
   "Safe Escape Aikido."  What is Aikaido?, Samurai History, Internal Energy  
   Aikido Association of America   history, benefits of Aikido, activities, services, seminars.

Aikido in Australasia
   Aikido New Zealand Community instructor profiles, events calendar, articles, blogs, forum. Resource links
   Akaido in Aukland  The Japanese martial art of self defence. Aikido video clips, techniques and more
   Aikido Australia State locations and contacts; news
   Aikido Melbourne - Aikido-Joga -a seamless integration od Aikido and Joga; The principles
 
Ki-Aikido  Ki- aikido differs from some other forms of aikido (and many forms of martial arts) on the emphasis on Ki (energy/attitude) and harmony. Literally, Aikido can be interpreted to mean "The path of harmonious energy." This is the keystone of Ki Aikido philosophy  more... top
  Aikido Resources on the Internet 
ki-aikido centre 
Chicago Ki Society Annex - the Japanese MA of Aikido and the concept of Ki or Chi.
Chicago Ki Society  - the Ki-Aikido (a Japanese martial art) dojo in the metro Chicago area
Ki-Society USA with extensive directory of State Dojos, events calendar, competition results.
Ki Federation of Great Britain
ki-aikido Germany  
Irish.ki-aikido association
USA Ki-Aikodo Soc  
Unofficial USA Ki-Society 
 
Capoeira  Capoeira was created by African slaves, in Brazil, approximately 400 yrs. ago as a martial art. Capoeira possesses a very unique style that brings together beauty and power, developing mental balance, physical conditioning, self-defense, music and a profound sense of art, all at once. Capoeira can be done by anyone of any age or size. More than a martial art, Capoeira is also a social event filled with tradition and history.   More.... top
  A view of Capoeira as a martial art
Capoeirista a useful resource with history overview, glossary, school list, calendar of events for the community, rated links, Forums on the net
Capoeiraof San Jose What is capaeira?, History, Movements etc, links to sites around the World
Capoeira.com "the largest Capoeira community on the internet" with resources covering a wide variety of Capoeira-oriented topics; online community of people, forums,chat etc, magazine
The Capoeira List a portal with extensive links to the art
 

 

  Jendo
Jendo started in the Philippines in 1973.  It was founded by Grandmaster Jonathan "June" Makiling Abaya of Mandaluyong City, Philippines.  The term Jendo means "The Economical New Way".  Literally, the first letter of the word Jendo canme from the founder's name Jonathan or June, the second letter e - means economical, the third is n - means new and the last two letter means Do which means way.    For more information see  Philippine Jendo Association
 
  Philippine Jendo Association A Filipino martial arts founded in Mandaluyong City, Philippines by Grandmaster Jonathan "June" Makiling Abaya in 1973 base on his concepts and principles called " TRI-FORCE ". History
USA Jendo Filipino Martial Arts  The official governing body  of Jendo Filipino Martial Arts in the United States of America founded by Punong Guro Robert Stallard.   It has some useful background on Jendo.
Jendo Martial Arts Resource - what is Jendo?; history and development, concepts and principles
 
    Karate a Japanese word meaning "empty hands" indicating that karate is a martial art that does not require weapons other than the natural weapons of the body.  The word “empty” also refers to the concept of the practitioner of karate being void of aggressive thought. There are 5 main Karate Styles: Goju-Ryu, Kenpo, Shotokan, Shito-Ryu and Wado-Ryu.
See Wikipedia for background
                                                            Karate Training
top
Bunjinkan and Ninjutsu The Bujinkan (Divine Warrior House) is  based on fighting tactics assimilated from nine ryu-ha (traditions; school) that were born on the battlefields of feudal Japan as far back as the 7th century. The soke (grandmaster; spiritual family head), Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi, oversees the training of thousands of students worldwide from his honbu (headquarters) dojo in Noda City, Japan. Bujinkan derives its fighting style from the waza (techniques) and kata (stylized forms) of the nine ryu-ha. Only three are Ninjutsu in origin with the remaining six being of mainstream bujutsu (martial techniques) origin  More.... top
Wado-Ryu Karate a style of Japanese karate founded in 1939 by Hironori Ohtsuka (also spelled Hironori Otsuka).  Wado means “way of peace” and is one of the four major styles of Japanese karate along with Shotokan, Goju Ryu and Shito Ryu;  more...  top
Kung Fu  A Chinese martial art developed approx 250-300 years ago.  Differing sections are Wing Chun Kung Fu and  Shaolin Kung Fu.   See also Sindo an offshoot of Indonesian martial art top
  Wing Chun Definition by Wikipedia places emphasisis on close range combat
    What is Wing Chun from the BBC h2g2, a useful summary and introduction
Wing Chun Interactive  a tutorial website teaching the principles and applications of Wing Chun
Wing Chun Archives who, what, where, when, how, why.......
Wingtsunkungfu from Vancouver, British Columbia; Canadian schools, interactive sessions, contests, special events, semiars.... 
Planet Wing Chun (Kung Fu). World portal for the Wing Chun community
Wing Chun World to share accurate and unbiased information about the Chinese martial art of Wing Chun Kung Fu in all its variations
Rochester Wing Chun has articles, essays and Faq's on the style and useful links to local (Bay Area) clubs and Wing Chun resources
   Centerline Academy  provides instruction in the Neptune Beach, Florida area; History
Wing-chun.US  provides private instruction in Wing Chun in Chandler and Prescott Valley, Arizona, but also has useful sections on history, tactical defence and articles
 
  Shaolin  Definition by Wikipedia characterised by direct explosive attacks and high-kicking aerial manoeuvres
    Shaolin Gung Fu Institute styles, history, philosophy and very useful Shaolin Gung Fu technique
Shaolin Wushu - what is it? (foundation, roots, history) , Method and Art of Combat
Shaolin International Federation "Shaolin Kung Fu is as vast and complex as the universe. This site will barely scratch the surface of its depths. An ancient Shaolin Master once said: 'Study Shaolin Style in great depth, then absorb the special qualities of other styles. Set for your high ideals. Study for wisdom and train the body. Never fear evil. Always fight for Justice.'";Styles, news, events, about Shaolin Kung Fu
The Shaolin Temple " In the past, Shaolin was first known as a religious court and Buddhist school. As time elapsed, their patented Shaolin Kungfu, the best of Chinese Wushu, had become famous all over China, until present  day where it is famous throughout the entire world." The Elements, Progression, Weapons, Feats.
Shaolin Kung Fu Library online  read all about it!
Chinese Shaolin Centre
 "to bring to the student a sense of the art, history, legends and training by
devoting tremendous attention to all facets of the students' training"
British Martial Arts:   Shaolin and Chow Gar background information, Directory Listing, Martial Art Resources 
Tai Chi. Best known for the early morning slow motion routines in many parks in China, it is sometimes referred to as a 'soft-style' martial art and is derived from 'tài jí quán' or 'supreme ultimate fist' (Tai> Supreme or Grand, Ji (Chi)> Ultimate, Quan (chuan)> Fist or Boxing.). It focuses on relaxation, perception, posture and body alignment with the objective of  using the body as a whole is used to neutralise or evade attacks
 
top

Contact our Tai Chi Librarian, Kellen, from the Tai Chi Society if you have
         questions to ask about Tai Chi

  Taichi Today  news, articles,events; famous styles, forum, links
     First Taijiquan Science Seminar Aug 2007 at Changchun citt
First Tiajiquan Science Seminar official site
Tai Chi The site provides Tai Chi training productions, but it also has some useful online resources for the style, including  a beginners area to introduce Tai Chi and its concepts, and links to sites about Tai Chi Chuan, Health and fitness, software downloading, and martial arts.
Iran Taichi (English/Persian)-Provides information on Wushu Tai Chi in Iran.
Tai Chi Society  Sydney, teaching Tai Chi for six generations. History of Tai Chi, What is TaiChi?, Benefits, Articles on principles and posture, alphabetical Links Directory.
Benefits of Tai Chi for older people  - National Institute of ageing
 
Taekwondo. top
San Shou A brother sport of Draka, San Da, and Shoot Boxing. Originally developed by the Chinese military based upon intense study of various traditional methods and combined with modern advanced in sports medicine and training methodology. It is also a compete martial art that teaches striking, kicking, leg kicks, kick catches, sweeps, takedowns and throws;   What is San Shou top
  Sanshou.com The Official San Shou Resource on the Web; articles, community, fighters, coaches, events and a good set of links to other San Shou resources
History of San Shou  "During the Cultural Revolution in China from 1966 -1976. martial arts sparring competitions were outlawed. During this time ones fighting   skills were demonstrated during street fights and underground tournaments. It was not until the late 1970's to early 1980's that tournament fighting appeared in the People's Republic of China"
SanShou.org;  a good introduction to the sport; history, competition tips, comparison with Muay Thai and Boxing, events
 
Judo Judo comes  from the fighting system of feudal Japan. Founded in 1882 by Dr. Jigoro Kano, Judo is a refinement of the ancient martial art of Jujutsu;  more... top
  The International Judo Federation. world championship news. rules, events, forum, news archive
World Judo Organisation:  World Class Judo, Interviews and Global Index of Club

Judo World  -  Judo information and articles, as well as a detailed description of many of the judo techniques.
Judo Sport Everything you need for your judo training! Ask the Judo Professor your judo training questions.
Judo Photos see the sport in action at major tournaments and improve your technique
Judo Information - a great service from here. strong links section to National and club sites
Judo for the disabled.  special needs judo in the UK and Olympics; general information, rules, grading, competitions mostly in European Countries and results.
 
 National Judo Sites
  Northern Ireland Judo Federation   Starting judo, about Judo, history, competition, find a club,
  Links to country and county  federations websites in the UK, and world-wide.
  Judo Scotland
  Irish Judo Association calendar, competitions, glossary, map-based club contact details, links
  Welsh Judo Association calendar, alphabetic club details
  Judo Net for Belgium interests
   US Judo Association official site; calendar of events, camps, clubs, hall of fame, national team championships...
   US Judo National Governing Body for the Sport of Judo in the United States; events, results, Olympics, State information with links.
  US Judo Federation
 with an aim to introduce Judo in every American community and school. Junior Nationals, news, development, results
 
Ju-Jitsu "Compliant Art"As a martial art it therefore has certain aspects ideal for self defence. Within Japan, jujutsu is the largest traditional soft style martial art today. Jujutsu uses principles of countering an attack by using the opponent's strength against himself. Striking techniques (atemiwaza) based on pressure points, are used along with joint manipulations and throws to subdue and control an opponent. The fundamentals of jujutsu are very simple to learn and truly is a martial art for all ages. On the other hand, the advanced methods of jujutsu take years of dedicated study. top
  Kamishin Ryu is heavily jujutsu (grappling) oriented.  Kamishinryu's teachings are jujutsu in nature and consist of a cohesive blend of Japanese based martial arts. The art emphasize's the control, joint locking, chocking, throws and fluidity of jujutsu with effective atemiwaza.  Nippon Kobudo Kamishinryu was founded in the Kanagawa prefecture of Japan by Albert C. Church with sponsorship by Shogo Kuniba, Head Family, 3rd lineage generation successor of Motobu-ha Shitoryu.
 
 
  Kamishin.com  The Official Kamishin Ryu website; introduction, modern and ancient heritage.
 
  Aiki Jujitsu (Self Defense at Stanford University)
All Japan Ju-jitsu International Federation -about the Federation and about Ju-jitsu.
Belbudo.com Official site of Jiu-jitsu and Self-defence of Belarus;  Martial art, training, competitions, exams, festivals, special preparation for men and women, protection against weapons, knives, sticks, rope, lessons, photo and video
Dentokan Jujutsu A non commercial jujutsu club in Oxfordshire, UK; Kata lists, articles, martial arts resource links
International Sport Ju-jitsu Association (ISJA) - the governing body for Sport Jujitsu through-out the world. The ISJA serves as an umbrella organization to major jujitsu groups around the world. It's sole purpose is to promote the growth of Sport Jujitsu.
US Ju-Jitsu  a useful source for information on the art of Ju-Jitsu and the activities of the USJJF
The Jitsu Foundation  a founder member of the governing body for JuJitsu in the UK. We organise over 200 events for 3000 members in over 100 clubs each year. We also have clubs in Austrailia, Brazil, Canada, Holland, New Zealand, South Africa and USA
Meadowbank Ju-Jitsu Club Edinburgh teaches jitsu to both men and women. Has some useful Jitsu resources and local links

International Budo Federation of Australia  for all styles in Australia (Includes many Jujitsu and Judo styles as well as karate).. Offers help with insurance, child protection policies, gradings and international recognition etc. links to many styles including international links. Also coaching and training venues throughout Australia.
 
Iaido Sword Art Iaido is the art to pull and cut the sword, in one, combat crucial movement. It goes back on the sword combat schools of the Japanese Samurai.
However, in the course of the centuries these exercises (jap. Kata) lost their martial purpose. Instead of weapon in the fight, the sword became a mirror-image-ritual instrument of control and training of the self.
top
Two major styles:
Muso Jikiden Eishin Ryu - founded by Hasegawa Mondonosuke Eishin (17./18. Jh.). Japanese Federation: Zen Nihon Iaido Renmei.
Muso Shinden Ryu - founderdby Nakayama Hakudo (1869 bis 1958). Japanese Federation: is a section of the Zen Nihon Kendo Renmei
 Iaido Kendo
with sword (katana), or look alike (iaito) with bamboo sword-alike (shinai)  
traditional exercise (kata)for one iaidoka fight of two kendoka
in Gi and Hakama  in armour                  
Hoshinkido Hapkido

 

a new Korean martial art system that has been recognized by the Korea Kido-Hapkido Association since January 1st, 1999.based on the original and traditional Hapkido and complemented by the traditional self-defence techniques from Korean Hoshinsul top

Other Styles  to follow

Regional Associations and resources covering several martial art disciplines top
  International
  Martial Arts Cafe   International martial arts resource, includes, club directory, martial arts events diary, articles and forums.
  UK
  UK Martial Artist a useful resource for active martial artists in the UK including a Club Database, where prospective students can search for a club by region, a diary of events, forum, articles and news Contact us to promote your club, association or business on this website. We are keen to provide a thorough database of martial arts classes held throughout the UK

 

Mostly Commercial top
  Irish Martial Arts Commission IMAC; representating Aikido - Bujutsu - Karate - Kendo - Iaido - Kickboxing - Kung Fu - Ninjutsu - Tae Kwon Do  and  Sambo Wrestling in Ireland, suporting clubs and development