How Many Types of Martial Arts Are There? 25+ Styles Explored (2025) 🥋

two person doing martial arts

Ever wondered just how many martial arts styles exist worldwide? Spoiler alert: the number is far bigger—and more fascinating—than you might think! From ancient wrestling in Egyptian tombs to the explosive kicks of Taekwondo, martial arts span continents, cultures, and centuries. In this article, we’ll break down over 25 distinct martial arts styles, explore their origins, and help you discover which one might be your perfect match.

Did you know that there are over 170 recognized martial arts styles globally, with new hybrids emerging every year? Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned fighter, our expert insights from MMA Ninja™ will guide you through the rich tapestry of combat disciplines—from the graceful flow of Tai Chi to the brutal efficiency of Krav Maga. Plus, stay tuned for tips on how to get started and gear recommendations to kick off your training journey!

Key Takeaways

  • There are over 170 martial arts styles worldwide, with more evolving constantly through hybridization and innovation.
  • Martial arts originate from diverse cultures, including Asian striking arts like Karate and Muay Thai, grappling arts like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and practical self-defense systems like Krav Maga.
  • Choosing the right martial art depends on your goals—whether for self-defense, sport, fitness, or spiritual growth.
  • Starting your journey requires finding the right dojo, proper gear, and embracing the beginner mindset.
  • Recommended gear brands include Hayabusa, Venum, and Fairtex for quality and durability.

👉 Shop Martial Arts Gear:

Table of Contents

Here at MMA Ninja™, we get asked one question more than any other: “How many types of martial arts are there?” It sounds simple, right? But that’s like asking how many songs exist. The answer is… a lot! And new ones are popping up all the time. It’s a wild, wonderful world of kicks, punches, throws, and philosophies. So, grab your water bottle, bow to the dojo, and let’s dive into the sprawling universe of martial arts.

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, here are some mind-blowing facts to get you warmed up:

Fun Fact 🤯 The Nitty Gritty Details
How Many? Estimates range from over 170 to more than 180 distinct styles globally. And that’s not even counting the endless sub-styles and hybrids!
The Oldest? This is a hot debate! Evidence of wrestling dates back to 3000 BCE in Mesopotamia and Egypt. India’s Kalaripayattu is also a contender, with roots stretching back over 3,000 years.
Most Popular? Karate takes the cake with a staggering 100 million practitioners worldwide. It’s a global phenomenon!
Hollywood’s Impact The rise of martial arts in the West, especially in the 20th century, was massively fueled by action stars like the legendary Bruce Lee.
Not Just Fighting Many martial arts are deeply spiritual, focusing on discipline, respect, and self-improvement, not just combat. Think of it as a workout for your soul, too.
Olympic Stars Several martial arts are Olympic sports, including Judo, Taekwondo, Karate, and Wrestling.

🥋 The Ancient Roots: A Brief History of Martial Arts Disciplines

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Ever wondered where it all began? The story of martial arts is the story of humanity. At its core, it started from the basic human need for self-preservation. Ancient civilizations, from the Greeks with their brutal Pankration (a gnarly mix of boxing and wrestling dating back to 648 BC) to the Chinese developing combat systems thousands of years ago, all created methods to defend themselves.

Artwork found in Egyptian tombs from around 2000 BCE depicts wrestling techniques, while ancient Chinese records mention combat styles used for warfare. These weren’t just random brawls; they were systems, often inspired by the movements of animals, designed for survival. Over centuries, these raw survival skills were refined, codified, and infused with philosophy, evolving into the complex arts we know today. This incredible journey through time is a core part of our MMA History coverage.

🤔 How Many Types of Martial Arts Are There, Really? Unraveling the Numbers!

So, back to the big question. Why is it so hard to put a number on it?

Well, the world of martial arts is constantly evolving. There are over 170 recognized styles, but this number is fluid. The lines between “traditional” and “modern” arts can be blurry. For example, Taekwondo, often seen as traditional, was developed in the 1940s and 50s, while Bartitsu, a hybrid European art, dates back to around 1900.

Then you have the explosion of hybrid martial arts. Since the mid-20th century, and especially with the rise of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA), practitioners have been blending techniques from various disciplines to create more effective and versatile systems. Think of Bruce Lee’s Jeet Kune Do, which famously took elements from Wing Chun, boxing, and fencing. This makes categorizing by region or origin tricky.

Furthermore, new styles are sometimes introduced by individual masters or even branded by a specific gym, creating even more variations. So, while we can list the major players, the true number is likely much higher and always growing. It’s a beautiful, chaotic, and ever-expanding family of fighting systems!

🌍 Global Gauntlet: Fighting Styles from Around the World


Video: What’s the Best Martial Arts Style or School for You?








Martial arts are a global language, spoken with fists, feet, and fierce determination. Every corner of the world has developed its own unique dialect of combat. The fantastic featured video below gives a great visual tour of many of these styles. Let’s take a trip around the world!

🐉 Asian Combat Arts: From Kung Fu to Karate

Asia is often considered the cradle of many of the world’s most famous martial arts. From the disciplined strikes of Japan to the fluid motions of China, the continent offers an incredible diversity of styles.

🇯🇵 Japanese Martial Arts: Bushido’s Legacy and Beyond

Rooted in the traditions of the samurai, Japanese martial arts are renowned for their emphasis on discipline, precision, and respect.

  • Karate: Meaning “empty hand,” this art from Okinawa focuses on powerful striking techniques, including punches, kicks, and open-hand strikes. If you’re curious about its many forms, check out our deep dive into How Many Styles of Karate Are There? Discover 15+ Unique Paths 🥋 (2025).
  • Judo: Founded by Jigoro Kano, Judo translates to “the gentle way.” It’s a grappling art that emphasizes using an opponent’s momentum against them through throws, pins, and joint locks.
  • Aikido: A truly unique art, Aikido focuses on blending with an attacker’s motion and redirecting their energy, using joint locks and throws to neutralize threats without causing serious injury.
  • Jujutsu: The “mother art” of many Japanese systems, this ancient samurai combat form includes a wide range of techniques: striking, throwing, grappling, and joint locks.
  • Kendo: The “way of the sword,” Kendo is a modern martial art that uses bamboo swords (shinai) and protective armor, cultivating focus and the spirit of the warrior.

🇨🇳 Chinese Martial Arts: The Wushu Wonderland and Kung Fu’s Diversity

“Kung Fu” (or Wushu) is an umbrella term for the hundreds of fighting styles that have developed in China over thousands of years. They are incredibly diverse, ranging from hard, external styles to soft, internal ones.

  • Shaolin Kung Fu: One of the most famous styles, developed by monks at the Shaolin Temple, it’s known for its acrobatic kicks and powerful strikes.
  • Wing Chun: A close-range combat system, Wing Chun emphasizes simultaneous blocking and striking, economy of motion, and directness. It’s the art that Bruce Lee first mastered!
  • Tai Chi Chuan: Often practiced for its health benefits, Tai Chi is a “soft” martial art that involves slow, flowing movements to cultivate internal energy (qi), balance, and relaxation. But don’t be fooled—it has deep self-defense roots.

🇰🇷 Korean Martial Arts: Kicks, Discipline, and Taekwondo’s Global Reach

Korean martial arts are famous for their spectacular and powerful kicking techniques, as well as a strong emphasis on mental and spiritual development.

  • Taekwondo: Known for its incredible array of high, fast, and spinning kicks, Taekwondo is one of the most popular and widely practiced martial arts in the world. It’s not just about fighting; it’s about building character through discipline and respect.
  • Hapkido: A comprehensive self-defense art, Hapkido incorporates joint locks, throws, grappling, and a variety of strikes to control an opponent.
  • Tang Soo Do: A traditional Korean art that emphasizes both hard and soft techniques, including powerful kicks and hand strikes, as well as fluid forms.

🇹🇭 Southeast Asian Striking: Muay Thai, Silat, and the Art of Eight Limbs

The martial arts of Southeast Asia are known for their brutal efficiency and unique weapons.

  • Muay Thai (Thailand): Known as “The Art of Eight Limbs,” Muay Thai utilizes fists, elbows, knees, and shins to create a devastating striking arsenal. It’s a cornerstone for many MMA Fighter Profiles.
  • Silat (Indonesia, Malaysia): A diverse group of fighting styles, Silat includes strikes, grappling, and the use of a wide variety of bladed weapons.
  • Lethwei (Myanmar): Often called Burmese bare-knuckle boxing, Lethwei is a hardcore striking art similar to Muay Thai but with one major difference: it allows headbutts.

🇮🇳 Indian Martial Arts: Ancient Combat Forms and Kalaripayattu’s Roots

India is home to some of the oldest and most fascinating martial traditions in the world.

  • Kalaripayattu: Believed by many to be one of the oldest martial arts, Kalaripayattu from Kerala is a comprehensive system that includes strikes, kicks, grappling, weaponry, and even healing techniques.
  • Silambam: A weapon-based art that primarily uses a long staff for both offense and defense.
  • Malla-yuddha: An ancient form of combat wrestling with a history stretching back thousands of years.

🇻🇳 Vietnamese Fighting Styles: The Hidden Gems of Vovinam and More

Often overlooked, Vietnamese martial arts are both beautiful and effective.

  • Vovinam: A modern martial art known for its spectacular acrobatic leg-locking techniques, where practitioners use their legs to grapple and control opponents.
  • Nhat Nam: An ancient style with a rich history, focusing on both armed and unarmed combat.

🇧🇷 South American Grappling: The Rise of BJJ and Beyond

When you think of South American martial arts, two styles immediately come to mind, both with deep cultural roots and proven effectiveness.

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ): A game-changer in the martial arts world! Evolved from Japanese Jujutsu, BJJ focuses on ground fighting and submission holds. Its philosophy is that a smaller, weaker person can successfully defend against a bigger, stronger assailant using leverage and proper technique. Its dominance in early MMA tournaments sent shockwaves through the community.
  • Capoeira: A unique Afro-Brazilian art form that combines elements of dance, acrobatics, and music. Developed by enslaved Africans, it was a way to practice fighting techniques under the guise of a dance. It’s known for its fluid, rhythmic movements and powerful kicks.

🇪🇺 European Combat Systems: Historical Fencing, Krav Maga, and Modern Self-Defense

Europe has a rich history of combat systems, from ancient wrestling to modern, reality-based self-defense.

  • Krav Maga (Israel): Developed for the Israeli Defense Forces, Krav Maga is not a sport but a brutal, no-nonsense self-defense system. It focuses on neutralizing threats as quickly as possible by targeting an opponent’s most vulnerable points.
  • Wrestling (Greco-Roman & Freestyle): One of the oldest forms of combat, wrestling is a foundational grappling art practiced globally and is a key component of MMA.
  • Savate (France): A French martial art known for its elegant and effective kicking techniques, combined with elements of Western boxing.
  • Systema (Russia): A Russian martial art that focuses on breathing, relaxation, and fluid, natural movements to absorb and redirect attacks.

🇺🇸 American Innovations: Hybrid Martial Arts, MMA, and the Melting Pot of Combat

The United States has become a true melting pot for martial arts, leading to the creation of innovative and hybrid systems.

  • Mixed Martial Arts (MMA): The ultimate combat sport, MMA combines techniques from a variety of disciplines—striking, grappling, wrestling—to find the most effective all-around fighter. It’s the reason we at MMA Ninja™ exist! Keep up with the latest in our MMA Industry News section.
  • Jeet Kune Do (JKD): Developed by the iconic Bruce Lee, JKD is more of a philosophy than a style. It translates to “Way of the Intercepting Fist” and emphasizes simplicity, directness, and adapting techniques to the individual.
  • American Kenpo: A hybrid system developed by Ed Parker, Kenpo Karate is known for its rapid-fire hand strikes and practical self-defense applications.

🌍 African Martial Traditions: Unearthing Ancient Practices and Modern Adaptations

Africa has a vast and often underappreciated history of indigenous martial arts, many of which are still practiced today.

  • Dambe (West Africa): A brutal form of boxing where one fist, the “spear,” is wrapped in rope. It’s a test of toughness and power.
  • Laamb (Senegal): A form of wrestling that has become a national sport, combining grappling with striking.
  • Zulu Stick Fighting (Southern Africa): A traditional martial art using one or two sticks for striking and blocking, requiring immense skill and courage.

🎯 Your Journey: What Martial Arts Style Is Right For You?


Video: Types of Martial Arts || Martial Arts Around the World.








Okay, so we’ve established there are a ton of martial arts. The big question now is, which one is your soulmate? Choosing a martial art is a deeply personal decision. It depends on your goals, personality, and what you want to get out of your training. Let’s break it down.

💪 Self-Defense vs. Sport: Defining Your Goals in the Combat Arena

First, ask yourself: Why am I doing this?

  • ✅ For Self-Defense: If your main goal is to learn how to protect yourself in a real-world situation, you’ll want a style that focuses on practicality and efficiency under pressure.
    • Top Picks: Krav Maga is designed for the street, with no rules and a focus on ending a confrontation quickly. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is fantastic for self-defense, especially for a smaller person against a larger attacker, as most fights end up on the ground. Boxing is also highly effective for developing powerful, instinctive striking skills for real-world encounters.
  • ✅ For Sport & Competition: If you’re drawn to the thrill of competition, look for styles with a strong tournament scene.
    • Top Picks: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has a massive and growing competition circuit. Judo and Taekwondo are Olympic sports, offering a clear path for competitive athletes. Muay Thai and Kickboxing are excellent if you love the striking aspect and want to test your skills in the ring.
  • ❌ The Mismatch: Don’t pick a highly stylized, weapon-based art like Kendo if your primary goal is to defend yourself in an alley. Conversely, the brutal eye-gouges of Krav Maga won’t win you any points in a Judo tournament. Align your choice with your objective!

🧘‍♀️ Mind, Body, Spirit: Holistic Benefits of Martial Arts Training

Martial arts are so much more than just fighting. They are a path to personal growth, offering incredible benefits for your mind and spirit.

Benefit How Martial Arts Delivers
Confidence Boost Mastering new techniques and overcoming challenges in the dojo builds a profound sense of self-worth that carries over into all aspects of life.
Stress Relief Hitting pads, executing forms, or engaging in a focused sparring session is an amazing outlet for stress and frustration. It helps release endorphins and reduces anxiety.
Discipline & Focus The structured nature of training teaches patience, perseverance, and the ability to concentrate, skills that are invaluable outside the gym.
Full-Body Fitness Martial arts provide a fantastic workout, improving cardiovascular health, strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination.

If you’re looking for a practice that emphasizes the mental and spiritual side, consider Tai Chi, with its focus on slow, meditative movements, or Aikido, which teaches harmony and control. This journey of self-improvement is a key tenet of our Mixed Martial Arts Philosophy.

👶 Kids and Martial Arts: Starting Young on the Path of Discipline

Is it a good idea to get your little ninja into martial arts? Absolutely! It’s one of the best things you can do for a child’s development. Classes are often available for kids as young as four to six.

Here’s why we at MMA Ninja™ think it’s a knockout choice for kids:

  • Teaches Respect: The first thing you learn in a dojo is to bow. This instills a deep sense of respect for instructors, training partners, and the art itself.
  • Builds Confidence: As kids learn new moves and earn new belts, their self-esteem soars. They learn to believe in their own abilities.
  • Improves Focus: Martial arts require concentration and active listening, which can translate to better performance in school.
  • Promotes Fitness: It gets kids active, helping them maintain a healthy weight and develop coordination and balance.
  • Learn Self-Defense: It empowers children with the skills and awareness to protect themselves if necessary.

👴 Never Too Late: Martial Arts for Adults and Lifelong Learning

Think you’re “too old” to start? Think again! One of our senior instructors started his BJJ journey at 45 and is now a formidable black belt. It’s never too late to step onto the mat.

Adults can gain immense benefits from martial arts training. It’s an incredible way to:

  • Stay Fit: It’s a fun way to get a full-body workout, improve heart health, and build functional strength without just lifting weights.
  • Relieve Stress: Had a tough day at work? Punching a heavy bag or flowing through a kata is one of the best stress-busters around.
  • Learn a New Skill: It challenges your mind and body, keeping you sharp and engaged.
  • Improve Flexibility & Balance: Training helps maintain mobility and balance, which is crucial for healthy aging.
  • Join a Community: A good martial arts school becomes a second family, a place of support and camaraderie.

🚀 Getting Started: How to Begin Your Martial Arts Training Adventure


Video: How to Pick a Martial Art | For Beginners.







Feeling inspired? Ready to take the first step? Here’s your beginner’s guide to getting started on this incredible journey.

🔍 Finding the Right Dojo or Gym: Your Training Home

This is the most crucial step. A great instructor and a positive environment will make or break your experience.

  • Do Your Research: Look up schools in your area that teach the style you’re interested in. Read online reviews and check their credentials.
  • Visit and Observe: Before committing, visit a few different schools. Watch a class. What’s the vibe? Is the instructor patient and clear? Do the students seem supportive of each other?
  • Take a Trial Class: Most reputable schools offer a free trial class. This is your chance to see if the teaching style and class structure work for you. Don’t be afraid to ask questions!
  • Trust Your Gut: Ultimately, you should feel welcomed and motivated. Your dojo will become your sanctuary, so choose one that feels right. For more tips, check out our MMA Coaching section.

Gear Up: Essential Equipment for Martial Arts Beginners

You don’t need to break the bank on day one, but having the right gear is important for safety and performance. For your first class, comfortable athletic clothing is usually fine.

Here’s a basic rundown of what you might need as you progress:

Martial Art Style Essential Gear Recommended Brands
BJJ / Judo Gi (uniform), Belt, Mouthguard Elite Sports, Fuji, Hayabusa
Boxing / Kickboxing Boxing Gloves (14-16oz for sparring), Hand Wraps, Mouthguard Ringside, Venum, Hayabusa
Muay Thai Boxing Gloves, Hand Wraps, Shin Guards, Mouthguard Fairtex, Yokkao, Venum
MMA 4oz MMA Gloves, 16oz Boxing Gloves, Shin Guards, Mouthguard, Groin Protector, Headgear (for sparring) Hayabusa, Venum, RDX Sports

Ready to gear up? Find the best equipment for your journey:

First Steps: What to Expect in Your First Martial Arts Class

Feeling those first-day jitters? That’s totally normal! Every black belt was once a white belt who was nervous about their first class. Here’s a general idea of what to expect.

  1. The Welcome: You’ll be greeted by the instructor, who will likely give you a quick tour and introduce you to some fellow students.
  2. The Warm-Up: Every class starts with a warm-up to get your body ready and prevent injuries. This will include stretching, cardio, and mobility drills.
  3. The Basics: The instructor will then guide you through the fundamental techniques of the art. This could be basic stances, footwork, punches, kicks, or simple grappling positions. The focus will be on learning the movements correctly and safely.
  4. Partner Drills: You might be paired up with another student to practice a technique in a controlled, light-contact manner. Don’t worry, they’ll usually pair beginners with more experienced students who can help guide you.
  5. The Cool-Down: The class will end with a cool-down and some final stretches.
  6. Respect and Etiquette: You’ll notice a strong emphasis on respect. This often involves bowing at the beginning and end of class and addressing the instructor formally.

Our biggest tip? Just have fun and embrace the learning process. No one expects you to be perfect. Ask questions, stay hydrated, and be proud of yourself for starting!

🏆 Conclusion: Your Martial Arts Odyssey Begins Now!

two man kickboxing

Wow, what a journey! From ancient wrestling in Egyptian tombs to the high-flying kicks of Taekwondo, the world of martial arts is as vast and diverse as the human spirit itself. We started with a simple question—how many types of martial arts are there?—and discovered that the answer is beautifully complex: over 170 styles, constantly evolving and blending.

Whether you’re drawn to the grace of Tai Chi, the raw power of Muay Thai, the strategic ground game of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, or the practical efficiency of Krav Maga, there’s a perfect martial art waiting for you. And remember, it’s not just about fighting—it’s about building confidence, discipline, fitness, and a community.

If you’re ready to take the plunge, start by finding a great dojo, gearing up with quality equipment, and embracing the beginner’s mindset. Your first class might be nerve-wracking, but every expert was once a beginner. The most important thing? Enjoy the process and keep punching forward!

Ready to explore more? Check out our MMA Coaching and Fighter Profiles for inspiration and tips.

Gear up and get ready! Here are some top-quality brands and resources to kickstart your martial arts journey:

❓ FAQ: Your Burning Martial Arts Questions Answered

man in white shirt and black pants sitting on white floor

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is a melting pot of fighting styles, but some disciplines dominate the cage:

  • Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ): The king of ground fighting, BJJ teaches submissions, positional control, and leverage. It’s essential for grappling exchanges.
  • Wrestling: Both freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling provide takedown skills and control, crucial for dictating where the fight takes place.
  • Muay Thai: Known as “The Art of Eight Limbs,” it offers devastating striking with fists, elbows, knees, and shins.
  • Boxing: Sharpens hand striking, footwork, and head movement.
  • Judo: Offers throws and clinch control, often used to transition fights to the ground.

Together, these arts create a well-rounded MMA fighter capable of handling all phases of combat.

Read more about “🥋 Unlocking the Secrets of Chinese Martial Arts: 15 Styles You Must Know (2025)”

How do different martial arts styles complement each other in a mixed martial arts training regimen?

MMA is about blending the best of many worlds. Each style fills gaps left by others:

  • Striking arts like Muay Thai and boxing develop stand-up skills, timing, and power.
  • Grappling arts such as BJJ and wrestling teach control, submissions, and defense on the ground.
  • Clinch arts like Judo and Muay Thai clinch work help fighters control opponents in close quarters.
  • Self-defense systems like Krav Maga add practical, real-world tactics.

Training across these disciplines ensures fighters are versatile, adaptable, and prepared for any scenario inside the cage.

What are the key differences between Eastern and Western martial arts disciplines?

  • Eastern Martial Arts: Often emphasize philosophy, tradition, and holistic development. Styles like Karate, Kung Fu, and Taekwondo combine physical techniques with mental and spiritual growth. Many have formalized ranking systems and rituals.
  • Western Martial Arts: Tend to focus more on practical combat and sport. Examples include boxing, wrestling, and historical European martial arts (HEMA) like fencing. Modern Western systems like Krav Maga are pragmatic and designed for real-world self-defense.

Both have their merits, and the best fighters often borrow from both traditions.

Can training in multiple martial arts styles improve overall performance in mixed martial arts competitions?

Absolutely! MMA is inherently multidisciplinary. Training in multiple styles:

  • Expands your skill set: You learn striking, grappling, and clinch techniques.
  • Improves adaptability: You can respond to different opponents and situations.
  • Enhances conditioning: Different arts challenge your body in unique ways.
  • Builds mental toughness: Facing diverse challenges fosters resilience.

Many top MMA fighters, like Georges St-Pierre and Amanda Nunes, have backgrounds in wrestling, BJJ, and striking arts, proving that cross-training is a recipe for success.

Additional FAQs

What is the easiest martial art to learn for beginners?

While “easy” is subjective, arts like Tai Chi and Boxing are often recommended for beginners due to straightforward techniques and accessible training methods. However, mastery requires dedication regardless of style.

Are martial arts suitable for children with special needs?

Yes! Many schools offer adaptive programs tailored to children with various abilities, focusing on building confidence, coordination, and social skills.

How can I avoid injuries when starting martial arts training?

  • Choose a reputable school with qualified instructors.
  • Always warm up and cool down properly.
  • Use appropriate protective gear.
  • Communicate with your instructor about any health concerns.
  • Progress at your own pace and avoid overtraining.

Read more about “🥋 Judo Martial Arts Uncovered: 12 Secrets Every Fighter Should Know (2025)”

Ready to start your own martial arts journey? The world is your dojo. Step in, train hard, and become the warrior you were meant to be! 🥋🔥

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