Understanding the Different Types of Martial Arts

Stepping into the world of martial arts can feel overwhelming at first. There are so many styles, each with its own focus and training methods. This guide breaks down the main systems, showing what they offer for fitness, confidence and self-defence. At martial arts training with Birmingham Martial Arts Centre, you can explore the style that best fits your goals and personality.

What are the main types of martial arts and how do they differ? Striking arts use punches, kicks and footwork, grappling arts focus on throws and holds, hybrid systems blend multiple skills, and traditional/internal arts emphasise posture and mindfulness. Each discipline develops balance, strength and confidence in its own unique way.

Your Map of Martial Arts: How the Styles Differ

Every martial art builds physical strength, coordination and confidence, but in different ways. Some focus on fitness and competition, others on mindfulness and personal growth. While the training methods vary, all martial arts share the aim of improving discipline, resilience and everyday wellbeing.

Striking Arts: Punches, Kicks and Footwork

Striking systems teach stand-up techniques using the hands, feet and body.

• Karate: Precise strikes, kata (forms) and sparring drills.

• Taekwondo: Known for dynamic kicks and speed.

• Kickboxing: Combines boxing punches with powerful kicks.

• Muay Thai: Uses elbows, knees and clinch work as well as punches and kicks.

These arts build cardio endurance, balance, reaction time and strong posture.

Grappling Arts: Throws, Holds and Groundwork

Grappling focuses on clinching, throws and ground control.

• Judo: Takedowns and throws with controlled landings.

• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ): Ground-based submissions and positional control.

• Wrestling: Clinch work, pins and explosive takedowns.

Grappling improves whole-body strength, problem-solving and the ability to stay calm under pressure.

Hybrid & Modern Systems

Some disciplines blend skills from striking and grappling for real-world or competitive scenarios.

• Mixed Martial Arts (MMA): Combines striking, grappling and submissions.

• Krav Maga: Practical self-defence drills, situational awareness and escape strategies.

Training is progressive, controlled and designed to be safe while building functional skills.

Traditional & Internal Arts

Traditional arts often focus on forms, partner drills and flowing movement.

• Kung Fu: A broad family of Chinese systems with striking, stances and weapons.

• Aikido: Uses redirection and joint locks with an emphasis on control.

• Tai Chi: Slow, mindful movement to refine balance and posture.

These arts improve flexibility, coordination, mobility and stress relief.

Weapons Training (Where Offered)

Some schools introduce safe, structured weapons practice.

• Kobudo: Traditional Okinawan weapons such as the bo staff.

• Eskrima/Arnis: Filipino stick and blade drills focusing on timing and distance.

Weapons training enhances coordination, awareness and respect for safe handling.

How to Choose the Right Style for You (Beginner-Friendly)

When choosing a martial art, consider:

• Your goals: fitness, self-defence, mindfulness or competition

• The pace: fast and intense vs calm and technical

• Contact level: light partner drills vs full sparring

• Practicalities: class times, location and travel

• Community: supportive training environment and culture

A simple process is: try a taster class → meet the coach → set 8-week goals.

What to Expect in Your First Class

Most beginners will go through:

• A warm-up to loosen muscles and joints

• Fundamental stances and guard positions

• Basic strikes, kicks or drills depending on style

• Light partner work or padwork

• A cool-down stretch to finish

Coaches ensure the pace is beginner-friendly and etiquette is explained clearly.

Essential Starter Kit

To get started, all you need is:

• Comfortable clothing

• A water bottle

• Optional gloves, shin guards or a gi (uniform), depending on the style

Investing in uniforms and protective gear usually comes after your first few sessions.

Staying Consistent Without Burnout

Aim for 2–3 sessions a week and supplement with light stretching or mobility at home. Small goals and milestones keep motivation high, while rest and recovery prevent fatigue. A training diary can help track progress.

Community, Confidence and Personal Growth

Beyond fitness, martial arts classes create a supportive network. Training partners and coaches encourage you, helping build resilience, confidence and friendships. The discipline learned on the mats often translates into everyday calmness and self-belief.

Types of Martial Arts at a Glance

Style	Primary Skills	Typical Contact	Fitness Focus	Beginner Fit
Karate	Punches, kicks, forms	Light–moderate	Cardio, balance	Excellent
Taekwondo	Fast kicks, footwork	Light–moderate	Flexibility, speed	Excellent
Kickboxing	Punches, kicks, combos	Moderate–high	Cardio, strength	Good
Muay Thai	Punches, kicks, elbows, knees	High (controlled)	Power, endurance	Good
Judo	Throws, pins, holds	Moderate (grappling)	Strength, balance	Excellent
BJJ	Ground submissions	Moderate–high	Core, problem-solving	Excellent
Tai Chi	Flowing movements, posture	Low	Flexibility, calm	Excellent

FAQs

Which martial art is best for beginners? Karate, Taekwondo, Judo and BJJ are all accessible and beginner-friendly.

Is martial arts suitable for older adults? Yes. Arts such as Tai Chi and Judo can be adapted for all ages.

How much contact is involved in different styles? It varies: striking arts use pads and light sparring, grappling arts involve holds, while internal arts are low-contact.

How quickly will I see fitness improvements? Most beginners notice changes in strength, flexibility and confidence within 6–8 weeks.

What should I bring to my first session? Comfortable clothing, a water bottle and enthusiasm—specialist gear can come later.

Martial arts is about more than just technique—it’s about finding the right fit for your goals and enjoying the journey. Start your martial arts training with Birmingham Martial Arts Centre today and discover a welcoming environment where beginners thrive.