Martial arts is a term that is used to describe a system of fighting that is very unique but often quite varied. The system has codes and rules to it. It is not one that has weapons, especially any type of modern day weapons, but one that focuses the body and the mind to have them work as one. It is used for traditional uses, for sport in competitions around the world, for fitness, for self defense although it does not teach to go out and fight but to defend and for improvement of the self. For this aspect, there are several things that martial arts can do. It can help to keep you mentally disciplined, provide self cultivation such as that of meditation and provide for self confidence. Character development is the key to martial arts.

Martial arts have been practiced for many years. It can be dated as far back as 2500 years ago in the Zhou Dynasty. Here, students would master the Six Arts which including rites, calligraphy, mathematics, charioteering, archery and music.

The systems that are used within martial arts are quite varied. Here are some of the various focuses of them.