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The phrase 'Martial Arts' often brings to mind scenes of ancient Chinese warriors in fierce battles or Samurai and Ninjas dueling in bamboo groves. While many renowned martial arts hail from Japan, China, and other parts of Asia, numerous combat styles have emerged from other regions worldwide. Here’s a look at ten of the most fascinating.
10. Highland Wrestling
Scots are celebrated for their ferocity in battle, though few would draw parallels between Jackie Chan and William Wallace. Yet, many Scotsmen were well-versed in martial arts. Highland wrestling, the foundational combat style taught to young Scots, often involves techniques passed down through generations. Historical accounts reveal that English knights were frequently surprised by the prowess of unarmed Scotsmen, who could effortlessly unseat fully armored opponents. Today, Highland wrestling is primarily preserved by reenactment groups and living historians, as many of its original techniques have faded into obscurity.
9. Pankration
The ancient Greek Olympics were notoriously harsh, but the most savage event was Pankration, meaning 'All Powers.' This intense blend of boxing and wrestling permitted nearly every tactic, including groin strikes, eye gouging, and even finger snapping. The Olympics aimed to keep citizens battle-ready for military service, and Pankration proved invaluable against invading forces. Today, Greeks continue to practice Pankration as a sport, and its ancient techniques still influence modern Mixed Martial Arts.
8. European Fencing
During the 14th and 15th centuries, swordsmanship was a crucial skill for young men in Western Europe, as nobles often carried rapiers and were quick to challenge others to duels. European Fencing is a highly refined and intricate combat art, with countless manuals and guides published across the continent. Fencers were renowned for their precise strikes, elegant footwork, and exceptional body control, rivaling even the Samurai. Each European region developed its own unique style, adapting to various types of swords.
7. Apache Knife Fighting
The Apache tribe excelled in using various weapons against settlers and rival tribes, but their deadliest skill lay in knife combat. Every Apache carried at least one knife, essential for survival in their hunter-gatherer lifestyle. In battle, they often wielded up to a dozen knives, throwing them with deadly accuracy or delivering precise strikes to vital areas like the chest, throat, or Achilles tendons. Today, the US military employs Apache descendants to train special forces in survival and knife combat, contributing to the reputation of Navy SEALs as the world's finest knife fighters.
6. Sambo
Sambo is a contemporary martial art, combat sport, and self-defense system that originated in the Soviet Union. Officially recognized as a sport in 1938 by the USSR All-Union Sports Committee, it was introduced by Anatoly Kharlampiev. Sambo has three main competitive forms: Sport Sambo, resembling amateur wrestling or judo; Combat Sambo, designed for military use and akin to modern mixed martial arts with striking and grappling techniques; and Freestyle Sambo, which follows a distinct set of rules established by the American Sambo Association.
5. Nguni Stick Fighting
The foundation of the Zulu warriors' renowned combat prowess lies in their traditional stick fighting. Armed with freshly cut saplings and small hide shields, Zulu fighters engage in intense duels. While the sticks inflict mostly superficial cuts, the pain from each strike is excruciating, and participants are certain to endure multiple hits. This practice hardens the Zulus against pain and fear, enabling them to face British gunfire with unwavering courage. Nelson Mandela, the iconic South African leader, recounted his childhood experiences with stick fighting.
4. Krav Maga
Originating in Israel, Krav Maga was born on the streets, crafted by Jewish vigilantes protecting their communities from anti-Semitic gangs. Unlike traditional martial arts, Krav Maga prioritizes ending confrontations swiftly through 'Overwhelming Force,' making its techniques among the most lethal. Today, it is predominantly used by military and law enforcement, including US Special Forces and the FBI.
3. Capoeira
Capoeira blends combat and dance, making it one of the most visually stunning fighting styles. Originating in Brazil, it was developed by African and Native American slaves who learned to fight using only their feet while their hands were bound. After slavery ended, Brazil's emperor banned Capoeira, deeming it too dangerous. Practitioners then masked their training as 'games,' accompanied by music to resemble dance. Today, Capoeira matches are still performed to music, appearing as acrobatic dances, yet they incorporate powerful kicks, throws, and takedowns effective in real combat.
Honorable Mention: Mau r?kau, Kaparjutsu, Gilma, Dambe, Gouren and Bandou
2. Savate
Emerging in 19th-century France, Savate was created by street fighters who donned heavy boots and aimed to kick each other in the head—'Savate' itself is old slang for a worn-out shoe. Transitioning from streets to boxing schools, it remains a popular competitive sport in France, renowned for its devastating head and face kicks designed to incapacitate opponents instantly. Savate schools also teach weapon techniques, reflecting its street-fighting roots, with weapons like walking canes, short knives, and even wooden chairs.
1. Jeet-Kune-Do
Contrary to popular belief, Jeet Kune Do is not an Eastern martial art but was created in America by Bruce Lee, an American citizen. Inspired by the straightforwardness of Western combat styles such as boxing and wrestling, Lee grew disillusioned with the complexity of Kung Fu. He distilled fighting to its core principles, emphasizing that the most effective move is the one that secures victory. Notable figures like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, John Saxon, Jim Kelly, and Steve McQueen, who were friends of Lee, also practiced this art.
