Tag: Combat

Possessing proper self-defense skills is imperative for women to know. One of the most searched questions on Google is what is the best self-defense for women?

Check out our list of martial arts below that are considered some of the best self-defense for women. Going through all the qualities that make them an excellent choice for women to learn.

Why Should Women Learn Self-Defense

Before we examine the best self-defense for women, let’s go over why women need to learn self-defense skills. Here are twelve reasons why women should learn how to defend themselves.

1. Personal Safety: Women are a more likely target of violence than men. Learning self-defense skills will help improve their personal safety.
2. Prevention & Awareness: Learning self-defense will keep women safe from attacks and help prevent them by learning awareness. Having this ability to sense danger can keep them out of dangerous situations.
3. Boost Confidence: By learning a form of self-defense, a woman will become more confident in herself. Confidence will help them physically and mentally deal with a dangerous situation.
4. Physical Fitness: Along with learning self-defense, women also learn the importance of good physical fitness. It’s better to be physically ready to deal with a bad situation than not be in shape.
5. Independence: When a woman knows how to protect themselves, this gives them a greater sense of independence. They can go to more places alone and feel comfortable without having fear.
6. Empowerment: The best self-defense for women gives them a sense of empowerment. Giving them the confidence to take an active role in their own personal security.
7. Preparedness: You never know what could happen and must stay ready. This is especially true if you’re a woman.
8. Raise Awareness: Along with preparedness is awareness. As a woman, you must be ready for anything that can and will happen.
9. Self-Discipline: When you learn self-defense, you also develop self-defensive. This positive trait is crucial to further improve your self-defense skills.
10. Positive Influence: A woman cannot only improve their self-defense skills but the self-defense skills of other women. They can be role models for women who want to be strong and independent. 
11. Crisis Management: Good self-defense skills enable you to better manage crises or help others in crises.
12. Community: The best self-defense for women creates a sense of community for them. You aren’t alone and have a group behind you that will support and defend you.

What martial art is the best self-defense for women

Boxing

The first style on our best self-defense for women write-up is the sweet science of boxing. The art of pugilism has been one of the most practiced forms of self-defense for decades.

This fighting style has various qualities that make it great for women looking to learn how to defend themselves.

The Positives of Boxing for Self-Defense

Boxing has a lot of positive qualities, but we’ll list five specific positives for this article. Here are five positives that make boxing one of the best self-defense for women.

1. Effective Striking Skills: Boxing enables women to have the skills to defend themselves against an attacker. Attackers may think twice about attacking a woman once they start getting blasted with hard combos.
2. Hand-Eye Coordination: Boxing teaches students proper hand-eye coordination. If a woman is ever faced with an attacker, they can better see the strikes coming and react.
3. Realistic Training: Boxing training forces a person to spar against another opponent and react to their movements. This type of training will better prepare a woman to defend herself.
4. Fitness: Boxing is the best training to get you in shape. When you’re in shape, you can better defend yourself.
5. Mental Toughness: Boxing training has a special quality of instilling toughness into its students. It can teach women not to let anyone make them victims and fight back.

The Negative of Boxing for Self-Defense

Although boxing is a great martial art, it has one glaring flaw: a lack of ground fighting. Women will be protected on their feet, but not if they’re grabbed or taken to the ground. They could have good striking skills, but it won’t matter if a bigger man is holding them down on the ground.

Muay Thai

The art of eight limbs, known as Muay Thai, is an incredibly effective striking art. Its various strikes and clinch work has made it a popular choice of self-defense for women.

The Positives of Muay Thai for Self-Defense 

Muay Thai has numerous benefits that will help a woman in a self-defense situation. Here are five positive benefits that make Muay Thai a great form of self-defense for women.

1. Striking Proficiency: Muay Thai includes some of the most proficient striking techniques of any martial art. Especially the leg kick that will make someone think twice about starting an altercation.
2. Clinching: One of the biggest positives of Muay Thai is the clinching techniques, which will come in handy in a fight. There’s a lot of grabbing and clinching in a fight, which allows a woman to set up nasty elbows.
3. Range Management: Muay Thai will teach you how to manage the range in a fight. You’ll be able to control the punching, kicking, and clinching ranges.
4. Conditioning & Fitness: Muay Thai stresses the importance of fitness in order to maximize the power of your strikes. You may be a girl, but you certainly won’t hit like one.
5. Simplicity: What makes Muay Thai so effective is its simplicity. The techniques are straightforward and easy to learn.

The Negative of Muay Thai for Self-Defense

Muay Thai will leave you well-prepared on your feet. Even more so than in boxing due to the clinching, elbows, knees, and throws.

But Muay Thai’s biggest flaw is once a fight hits the ground. A woman adept at Muay Thai will be well-prepared on her feet, but she’s still vulnerable on her feet. See Rodtang vs. Demetrious Johnson as an example of this flaw.

Judo

The classic grappling style of Judo is considered one of the best self-defense for women. It has proven effective techniques that have protected many people in dangerous situations.

The Positives of Judo for Self-Defense

Judo has numerous positives as one of the best self-defense for women. Here are the five positive benefits of learning Judo for self-defense.

1. Throws & Takedowns: In an altercation, there’s a lot of grabbing and pushing. These movements play right in Judo, making throwing an attacker to the ground easy.
2. Utilizing Opponent’s Force: Judo is all about using an opponent’s force against them. Since an attacker will try to implement their force, this makes it easy to throw them on their head.
3. Balance & Coordination: Judo teaches you to stay calm while keeping your coordination and balance. This is a crucial skill to learn when in a dangerous situation threatened with violence.
4. Ground Control: BJJ is known for more pins, but many of the martial art’s techniques were adopted from Judo. You’ll also learn how to control an attacker on the ground by practicing Judo.
5. Adaptability: Judo is one of the world’s most adaptable grappling martial arts. You can easily adapt the techniques you learn in the Gi and implement them on the street.

The Negative of Judo for Self-Defense 

The biggest negative against Judo as a self-defense system is its lack of striking and striking defense. It is one of the best forms of grappling you can learn, but it will leave a woman quite vulnerable to strikes. See Ronda Rousey’s losses as an example of this flaw.

BJJ

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) has become one of the most popular and best self-defense for women. It was created specifically to give a smaller person an equal advantage against a bigger person in a fight.

The Positives of BJJ for Self-Defense 

BJJ has numerous positives that make it one of the best self-defense for women. Here are five positives for women to consider when looking to learn a form of self-defense.

1. Defend Against Larger Opponents: BJJ was tailor-made to defend yourself against a bigger opponent. Being a woman, it is imperative that you learn grappling techniques that work against bigger opponents.
2. Escapes & Reversals: There might be a time when you’re on your back with a bigger attacker on top of you. BJJ’s escape and reversal techniques are a must in situations like these.
3. Submissions: BJJ has a lot of submissions taught within the martial art. You may be up against a bigger person, but they can be choke-out like anybody else.
4. Leverage Techniques: BJJ techniques are all about leverage and taking angles. Strength helps, but the grappling art is all about getting leverage on your opponent.
5. Transferable Skills: The techniques you learn in BJJ are transferrable to the street. You can see many instances of the techniques working in real-life situations on Youtube.

The Negative of BJJ for Self-Defense 

Like in Judo, BJJ will make a woman prepared to grapple and take a fight to the ground. Although, they will not be prepared to defend themselves against strikes. They could still fend off the attack but get hurt in a striking exchange if BJJ is all they know.

MMA

Mixed martial arts(MMA) is one of the most complete fighting systems on the planet. It encompasses all of the martial arts previously mentioned in this best self-defense for women article.

An eclectic style that teaches various forms of striking and grappling. Its diversity and effectiveness have made it one of the most popular fighting styles practiced today.

The Positives of MMA for Self-Defense

MMA is one of the most complete fighting systems that a woman could learn. Here are five positives as to why MMA is the best self-defense for women.

1. Versatile: MMA is one of the most versatile martial arts in the world. There is no other martial art that covers the amount of striking and grappling techniques that you see in MMA.
2. Realistic Sparring: The sparring in MMA is the most realistic type of sparring that you can do. It’s not a street fight, but it’s the closest way you can practice for one.
3. Ground Control: Like in Judo and BJJ, MMA teaches you how to control an opponent on the ground. On top of this control, you will also learn how to strike on the ground effectively.
4. Adaptability: The techniques taught in MMA are adaptable to an altercation on the street. These techniques are proven effective.
5. Mental Preparedness: By learning MMA, you will be mentally prepared to defend yourself in any situation that may happen. You will be able to calmly assess the situation and react accordingly. 

The Negative of MMA for Self-Defense

From a glance, MMA is the best self-defense for women. It’s great for self-defense, but the problem with MMA is that it’s sport-based.

This is a problem that all of the styles listed actually have. The techniques are taught within a sport setting, where the rules of the sport are respected.

This can be a problem on the street, as an attacker will not abide by any rules. MMA is a great choice, but keep this in mind if you learn this style.

Should a Woman Learn More Than One of These Self-Defense Systems?

The best self-defense for women is learning multiple styles of self-defense. By learning multiple styles, they would be better prepared to defend themselves in a dangerous situation.

If you’re a woman reading this, please go learn proper self-defense. It will enable you to live a better life without fear and give you the confidence to live better.

Mixed Martial Arts is getting bigger every year, and the best MMA gyms in the world keep producing great fighters. Many of the more established MMA gyms are still on top, but other emerging teams are making a name for themselves.

Here’s a list of the best MMA gyms of 2023. Read below as we detail the history of these teams and their best fighters.

You can also check a list of the best Muay Thai

Best MMA Gyms

American Top Team

• Founders: Dan Lambert/Ricardo Liborio
• Head Coach: Marcus “Conan” Silveira
• Head Trainers: Mike Brown, Steve Mocco
• Established: 2001
• Location: Coconut Creek, Florida
• Notable Fighters: Dustin Poirier, Amanda Nunes (Former), Robbie Lawler (Former), Alexandre Pantoja (UFC Flyweight Champion), Johnny Eblen (Bellator Middleweight Champion), Yaroslav Amosov (Bellator Welterweight Champion)

American Top Team (ATT) has been a powerhouse of an MMA team for over twenty years. It has continued to thrive since Dan Lambert propositioned Ricardo Liborio to build the world’s best MMA gym in 2001.

ATT has continued their tradition of producing world champions and top MMA fighters. There have been generations of fighters to come from the gym in almost every weight class imaginable.

This includes being the training center for some of the greatest fighters of all time. American Top Team is able to continue this success due to the team being a tight unit.

Former fighters like head trainer Mike Brown have stayed on at ATT to help the next generation of fighters. This has been the formula for success at American Top Team.

It is also one of the best MMA gym affiliations in the world, with affiliates worldwide. ATT has shown no signs of slowing down and will continue to be one of the world’s best MMA gyms.

American Top Team – Headquarters, 5750 SR 7, Coconut Creek, Florida, 33073, U.S.

American Kickboxing Academy

• Founder/Head Coach: Javier Mendez
• Head Trainers: Bob Cook, Daniel Cormier, Cain Velasquez, Leandro Vieira, Rosendo Sanchez
• Established: 1985
• Location: San Diego, California
• Notable Fighters: Islam Mackhachev (UFC Lightweight Champion), Usman Nurmagomedov (Bellator Lightweight Champion), Daniel Cormier (Retired), Khabib Nurmagomedov (Retired). Umar Nurmagomedov, Ruslan Magomedov

Like ATT, American Kickboxing Academy (AKA) has continually been among the world’s best MMA gyms. They have produced countless champions and hall-of-fame fighters.

It is one of the oldest fight gyms in the world, producing world champions for five decades. The gym started as top kickboxing but evolved into a top MMA gym as the sport developed.

Mendez’s decision to make AKA an MMA gym turned out to be the correct choice. In nearly every generation of mixed-martial-arts, AKA has produced a world champion.

American Kickboxing Academy has long established itself as a top MMA gym with no signs of slowing down.

American Kickboxing Academy, 7012 Realm Dr, San Jose, CA 95119, U.S.

Eagles MMA

• Head Coach/Founder: Khabib Nurmagomedov
• Established: 2020
• Location: Daegastan
• Notable Fighters: Islam Mackhachev (UFC Lightweight Champion), Usman Nurmagomedov (Bellator Lightweight Champion), Umar Nurmagomedov, Ruslan Magomedov

Since retiring from MMA, former champion and MMA GOAT Khabib Nurmagomedov has transitioned to being a successful coach. While a fighter, he also coached part-time at AKA and his home gym in Dagestan.

Khabib has now gone on to establish his own gym in Dagestan called Eagles MMA. It acts as a sister gym to AKA.

The Russian and Dagestani fighters train at Eagles when their home and AKA when they’re in the US. Nurmagomedov has proved to be an equally great coach and is now producing champions. We will definitely be seeing more from his fight team in the future.

Eagles MMA, Moscow, Russia.

Kings MMA

• Founder/Head Coach: Rafael Cordeiro
• Head Trainers: Ricardo Testai
• Established: 2010
• Location: Huntingbeach, California
• Notable Fighters: Anderson Silva (Retired), Kelvin Gastelum, Yair Rodriguez, Giga Chikadze, Beneil Dariush

Kings MMA quickly established itself as one of the world’s best MMA gyms after being established in 2010. Founder Rafael Cordeiro was a long-time trainer at the legendary Chute-Boxe Academy in Curitiba, Brazil.

The renowned trainer moved to the US a decade ago and has continued training the world’s best fighters. Kings MMA has been home to legends and top fighters for the last thirteen years.

Even being the new home for boxing icon Mike Tyson, we’ve seen in videos doing pad work with Cordeiro. Kings MMA is known for producing top fighters and will look to continue this legacy.

Kings MMA 7391 Warner Avenue Huntington Beach, California, U.S.

Xtreme Couture

• Owner/Founder: Randy Couture
• Head Coach: Eric Nicksick
• Head Trainer: Dennis Davis
• Established: 2006
• Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
• Notable Fighters: Francis Ngannou, Sean Strickland, Marvin Vettori, Jiri Prochazka, Miesha Tate

In recent years, Xtreme Couture has reclaimed its spot as one of the world’s best MMA gyms. Although, during the early 2010s, the gym was in financial trouble, many of its top fighters left.

This was until Eric Nicksick took over as head coach and breathed new life into the gym. Under Nicksick’s leadership, Xtreme Couture would rise from the ashes, and top fighters began joining the gym.

One of the more notable fighters was former UFC champion Francis Ngannou. This success led Xtreme Couture and Eric Nicksick to win gym and trainer of the year in 2021.

Xtreme Couture has continued to ride this wave of success to remain one of the top MMA gyms.

Xtreme Couture 4055 W Sunset Rd, Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.

Alliance MMA

• Founders: Eric Del Fierro, Brandon Vera
• Head Coach:  Eric Del Fierro
• Established: 2007
• Location: Chula Vista, California
• Notable Fighters: Dominick Cruz, Alexander Gustafsson, Brandon Vera (Retired), Cat Zingano, Phil Davis

Since 2007, Alliance MMA has been one of the top training camps for MMA fighters. The gym has produced numerous world champions like Dominick Cruz and Brandon Vera.

On top of producing world champions, Alliance has also produced generations of top MMA fighters. The gym is now a full-fledged affiliation with affiliate gyms from California to the Philippines. 

Alliance MMA 795 3rd Avenue, Chula Vista, California, U.S.

Serra-Longo Fight Team

• Founders: Matt Serra, Ray Longo
• Head Coaches: Matt Serra, Ray Longo
• Established 2001
• Location: Long Island, New York
• Notable Fighters: Aljimain Sterling (UFC Bantamweight Champion), Chris Weidman, Merab Dvalishvili, Matt Frevola, Al Iaquinta (Retired)

UFC Hall-of-Famer and former champion Matt Serra has been a respected coach for over twenty years. Serra and his best friend and business partner Ray Longo have produced numerous UFC champions.

Most recently, reigning UFC Bantamweight Champion Aljimain Sterling has called Serra-Longo Fight Team home for years. 

Since the original gym was founded in 2001, multiple affiliations have been established in the New York area. Most recently Long-Weidman MMA (LAW MMA), which is run by Longo and former UFC champion Chris Weidman.

Serra-Longo Fight Team continues to prove it one of the best MMA gyms in the world.

Serra-Longo Fight Team Long Island, New York, U.S.

Pitbull Bros Martial Arts

• Founders: Patricio/Patricky Freire, Eric Albarracin
• Head Coach: Eric Albarracin
• Established: Scottsdale, Arizona
• Notable Fighters: Paulo Costa, Henry Cejudo, Patricio Freire, Patricky Freire, Tracy Cortez

Eric Albarracin is one of the world’s top MMA and wrestling coaches. Through his work in TUF Brazil, he made a lot of connections with Brazilian fighters.

Two of the most notable were the Pitbull brothers, Patricio and Patricky. Through their success as fighters, the two and Alberaccin got together to establish Pitbull Bros Martial Arts.

It has quickly become one of the best MMA gyms in the world. Top fighters like Henry Cejudo and Paulo Costa have made the gym their home base. Under head coach Albarracin, Pitbull Bros will look to be a home for top fighters.

Pitbull Bros Martial Arts, R. Praia de Barreta, 280, Natal, Rio Grande do Nrote, Brazil.

Jackson Wink MMA

• Founder: Greg Jackson, Mike Winkeljohn
• Head Coaches: Greg Jackson, Mike Winkeljohn
• Established: 1992
• Location, Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Notable Fighters: Clay Guida, Cub Swanson, Derek Brunson, John Dodson, Holly Holm

When you talk about the best MMA gyms in the world, you have to bring up Jackson Wink MMA. They have been the benchmark for excellence since MMA exploded in popularity.

For years, all the world’s best fighters have trekked to Albuquerque, New Mexico, to train under Jackson and Winkeljohn. They have produced countless world champions as coaches and continue to produce top fighters.

In recent years, they haven’t produced as many champions as many fighters have exited or retired. But any time you watch a UFC or Bellator event, you are bound to see a fighter from Jackson Wink MMA.

Jackson Wink MMA, 301 Dr Martin Luther King Jr Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102, U.S.

ONXS Sports(Trevor Wittman)

• Founder/Head Coach: Trevor 
• Location: Denver, Colorado
• Notable Fighters: Justin Gaethje, Kamaru Usman, Rose Namajunas

Some may dispute this choice as one of the best MMA gyms because ONXS is not an MMA gym. It is actually a company that makes the world’s best martial arts equipment that was founded by Trevor Wittman.

Coach Wittman has long been considered one of the best MMA coaches in the world. He used to run his own gym in Denver but has since shut it down to run ONXS Sports.

Trevor doesn’t take up training many fighters, but when he does, they usually become champions. Some of his personal students include Justin Gaethje, Rose Namajunas, and Kamaru Usman. All former world champions and top fighters in the world.

ONXS Sports 3550 Frontier Ave Unit D, Boulder, Colorado, 80301, U.S.

The MMA Lab

• Founder/Head Coach: John Crouch
• Head Trainers: Benson Henderson, Rob Emerson, Maria Henderson, Chris Zubrycki
• Established: 2007
• Location: Phoenix, Arizona
• Notable Fighters: Sean O’Malley, Benson Henderson, Alex Caceres, James Nakashima

Another team that’s long been established as one of the world’s best MMA gyms is The MMA Lab in Arizona. Head coach John Crouch established his gym in 2007 and would immediately establish The Lab as a top MMA gym.

The Lab has been a hotbed of MMA talent for 16 years. It is the home of former UFC champion and future hall-of-famer Benson Henderson, who helped The Lab become internationally recognized.

Today, The Lab is still producing some of the top fighters in the world. Sean O’Malley is looking to be their next UFC champion.

The MMA Lab 2710 W Bell Rd #1150, Phoenix, AZ 85053, U.S.

Kill Cliff FC(Formerly Sanford MMA)

• Founder/Head Coach: Henri Hooft, Greg Jones
• Head Trainers: Henri Hooft, Greg Jones, Jason Strout
• Established: 2017
• Location: Deerfield Beach, Florida
• Notable Fighters: Michael Chandler, Kamaru Usman (Former), Gilbert Burns, Michael Johnson, Aung La Nsang, Tyrone Spong

Kill Cliff FC (Formerly Sanford MMA) is the crew that once led the Blackzilians Fight Team. After the Blackzillians gym shut down, trainers Henri Hooft and Greg Jones moved on to establish Sanford MMA.

They recently partnered with Kill Cliff and renamed the name of the gym. Under Hooft and Jones’ leadership, the gym has established itself as one of the best MMA gyms on the planet.

This includes former team member Kamaru Usman, who trained at the gym for most of his reign. Kill Cliff FC now has over 40 members to their fight team and looking to develop more champions.

Kill Cliff FC, 366 Hillsboro Technology Dr. Deerfield Beach, Florida, 33441, U.S.

City Kickboxing

• Founders: Eugene Bareman, Doug Viney
• Head Trainers: Eugene Bareman, Doug Viney
• Established: 2007
• Location: Auckland, New Zealand
• Notable Fighters: Israel Adesanya (UFC Middleweight Champion), Alexander Volkanovski (UFC Featherweight Champion), Kai Kara-France, Dan Hooker, Shane Young, Brad Riddell

The gym that man considers one of the current best MMA gyms in the world is City Kickboxing. Head trainers Eugene Bareman and Doug Viney opened their small New Zealand gym in 2007.

They could not have envisioned the success that their small gym would achieve in a short time span. Their crew has become one of the best fight teams in the world.

Led by UFC world champions Israel Adesanya and Alexander Volkanovski. Not just current champions but two fighters that many consider all-time greats.

City Kickboxing has more top fighters like Kai Kara-France, who’s on the hunt for UFC gold. The gym is currently at its height and looking to keep its place as one of the world’s best MMA gyms.

City Kickboxing, 14 West Street, Newton, Auckland, New Zealand.

AMC Pankration

• Founder/Head Coach: Matt Hume
• Head Trainers: Demetrious Johnson, Gabe Walton, Matt Michaels
• Established: 1991
• Location: Woodinville, Washington
• Notable Fighters: Demetrious Johnson (ONE Bantamweight Champion), Bibiano Fernandes

The MMA pioneer Matt Hume has been considered a top coach for decades. He has produced countless champions at AMC Pankration. One of the best MMA gyms in the world.

This gym is home to MMA great Demetrious Johnson and former world champion Bibiano Fernandes. AMC Pankration is known for its excellence and has been successful for decades under Hume’s leadership.

Mat Hume’s expertise is so revered that he became the VP of ONE Championship. He also had a hand in the establishment of Evolve MMA based in Singapore.

When you’re one of the world’s best MMA gyms for decades, you belong on any best MMA gym list.

AMC Pankration 15327 140th Pl NE, Woodinville, WA 98072, USA.

In Indonesia, an effective fighting style called Pencak Silat is proven effective. You may have seen this fighting style portrayed in various popular action movies that were produced within the region.

Pencak Silat has a rich history; we want to tell you a little about this effective style. Read below as we detail the history of Pencak Silat and the various styles that have evolved over time.

What is Pencak Silat? 

Pencak Silat, or Silat for short, is an umbrella term that encompasses numerous styles that use the name. It was developed in Indonesia, but numerous southern Asian countries practice forms of this martial art.

It is a well-rounded fighting style that includes punches, kicks, throws, takedowns, submissions, and weapon use. Each of the hundreds of Silat styles teaches a variation of these techniques.

The History of Pencak Silat 

The history of Pencak Silat dates back centuries. It was developed in Indonesia, where “Silat” is used as a collective word for indigenous Indonesian martial arts.

An oral history of Indonesia and southern Asia indicates that these styles began with the arrival of Aji Saka: the primordial king of Java, which at its height, went from India to Java.

Aji Saka was known as a skilled swordsman and master of open-handed techniques. There are many depictions and records of the skill of Saka and his soldiers. From the sixth century on, the styles of Silat would gradually develop.

During the 17th century, European nations began being exposed to styles of Silat due to the spice trade. Several nations under the orders of the East India Trading Company would begin occupying Southern Asia.

Many natives, who were Silat practitioners, would fight the invading Europeans. Although, through these conflicts with European nations, there would be a proliferation of new Silat styles.

Modern Silat

In 1948, the term Pencak Silat was solidified to group together the native Indonesian fighting styles. Along with the coining of the term, the Indonesian Pencak Silat Association (IPSA) formed and is still running to this day.

Organizations like the IPSA would gradually begin to create Silat into a fighting sport. In Indonesia, Pencak Silat is taught in all schools as an extra-curricular event.

Pencak Silat has a similar place in Indonesia as Muay Thai in Thailand. It is ingrained into the Indonesian culture as both a national sport, as well as a national martial art.

The Styles of Pencak Silat 

There are over hundreds of Pencak Silat styles that are practiced throughout the world. It would be nearly impossible to name all of Silat’s sub-genres as new styles are constantly being created.

But out of the hundreds of styles, they come from 12 specific styles of Pencak Silat.

1. Betawi: Created in Jakarta, and is known for its swift and subtle movements.
2. Minangkabau: Minangkabau is a Silat style developed in West Sumatra, Indonesia. It’s known for its graceful movements and hand gestures.
3. Javanese: Javanese was developed on the island of Java. It’s known for its powerful strikes and emphasizes the importance of self-defense.
4. Sunda: Another style of Silat that was developed in West Java. This style has a particular emphasis on submissions and circular movements.
5. Bali: Balinese Silat has an emphasis on dynamic footwork and acrobatic movements.
6. Cimande: Cimande Silat is a West Java style of Silat that has an emphasis on counter-attacks.
7. Perisai Diri: Perisai Diri was developed for real-life self-defense situations.
8. Tapak Suci: A style of Silat that includes spiritual aspects, meditation, and energy manipulation.
9. Serak: A Silak style known for its close-quarter techniques and unique circular hand movements.
10. Harimau: Harimau, also known as Tiger Silat, is inspired by the movements of a tiger, like in the Kung Fu style of Tiger Claw.
11. Bukti Negara: Bukti Negara was developed by Dan Inonsato in the US, a friend and student of Bruce Lee.
12. Kuntao Silat: Kuntao Silat mixes techniques from Chinese Kuntao with Pencak Silat

The Techniques of Pencak Silat

The techniques of Pencak Silat are made up of various different groups. Each of the numerous Silat styles uses one or all of these types of techniques within their style.

1. Hand Strikes

• Pukulan: Punching Techniques
• Tepak: Open-handed Strikes
• Tumbuk: Hammerfist Strikes
• Sapu Tangan: Slapping Strikes

2. Kicking Techniques

• Tendagan: Front Kicks, Roudhouses & Spinning Kicks
• Sikut Kaki: Elbow Kicks(Kicks where the blade of the foot is used)
• Tangkisan: Kicking Defense Techniques(Blocks & Checks)

3. Grappling Techniques

• Kunican: Joint Locks
• Kurungan: Trapping Techniques
• Gulat: Throws, Takedowns, & Sweeps
• Bantigan: Slamming Technique

4. Weapon Techniques

5. Evasion & Footwork

6. Counters & Parries

7. Jurus: Forms that are practiced in styles of Silat

8. Energy Manipulation & Breathing

The Weapons of Pencak Silat 

Thirteen different weapons are used within the style of Pencak Silat. Each with their own Indonesian name.

• Toya: a bo staff made from a rattan tree, metal, or another type of tree.
• Tombak/Lembing: A spear of javelin that is made of bamboo.
• Parang: A machete-like blade with a length of anywhere between 10 to 36 inches.
• Golok: A large cleaver that can also range in size from 10 to 36 inches.
• Pisau: A short knife that is often dual-wielded.
• Kris: A double-edged dagger made from metal folded together and washed in acid.
• Celurit: A sickle that was used for farming, much like the kama in Japan.
• Tongkat/Galah: A hard and short stick or cudgel
• Pedang: A single-edged Indonesian sword.
• Klewang: An Indonesian single-edged sword that’s slightly curved. Generally measuring between 15 to 35 inches.
• Chabang: A short-handed Indonesian trident.
• Selendang: A durable silk piece used for strangling, gripping, and whipping.
• Kerambit/Karambit: A small curved knife that resembles a claw.

Pencak Silat Ranking Systems

There is no formal ranking system used within all forms of Pencak Silat. Each of the numerous styles uses its own ranking system.

Some of the types of ranking systems include:

• Uniforms & Accessories: Some Pencak Silat styles use different uniforms and accessories to separate the rank of the students. It could be anything from different colored uniforms, designs, or badges.
• Titles & Names: Some styles use different names and titles to indicate their practitioner’s level.
• Guru-Student Relationship: Like in numerous styles of Kung Fu, many forms of Pencak Silat have a guru-student relationship. The master would teach their style to their student for years until they award their student with the title of teacher.
• Oral & Traditional Recognition: In some communities, Silat teachers will create an event to recognize a student’s advance in rank. They often have to rehearse and demonstrate their abilities before their teacher promotes them.

The Format of a Pencak Silat Competition

Since there are numerous styles of Silat practiced throughout Malaysia and the world, they have different competition formats. Although, the competitions have similar criteria.

1. Scoring Systems: Points are awarded for successful techniques, including strikes, throws, and takedowns.
2. Equipment: Silat athletes generally wear their competition uniforms, gloves, and protective equipment like shin guards.
3. Weight Classes: Athletes are separated by weight classes in all forms of Silat competition.
4. Duration: Silat sparring competitions are made up of a round format.  Anywhere from 3-5 rounds that last between 2-3 minutes each.
5. Fighting Areas: Competitions usually take place in either a ring or a big mat, like a Karate or BJJ competition.
6. Ways To Win: Ways to win a Pencak Silat match include knockout, points, or a referee’s decision.
7. Fair Play: Competitors are expected to abide by a code of conduct and show respect to their opponents and officials. Any sign of disrespect could lead to an immediate disqualification and possible suspension.
8. Illegal Techniques: In Silat competitions, groin strikes, eye gouges, and strikes to the back of the head are prohibited.
9. Referees & Judges: Matches are overseen by a referee and judges sitting next to the scoring table.
10. Culture Elements: Like in Thai boxing, some forms of Silat competitions will have traditional music playing, along with ceremonial dances.

The World Pencak Silat Championships

Since 1982, the World Pencak Silat Championships has been put on by the PERSILAT: The top Pencak Silat organization in the world.

They put on this competition every two years that has predominantly taken place in Jakarta, Indonesia. Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand have also hosted the World Pencak Silat Championships.

The first world championship included seven different countries. As PERSILAT continued putting on the event, over 40 nations are now represented at the championship.

PERSILAT breaks down its event into four different categories of competition.

1. Tanding (Match)
2. Tunggal (Single)
3. Ganda (Double)
4. Regu (Team)

Indonesia currently leads the total medal count with Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.

The Raid Movies & Pencak Silat 

Styles of Pencak Silat saw a rise in popularity during the 2010s thanks to the success of The Raid movies. The movies follow an Indonesian police officer that uses his Silat skills to defeat drug lords. They’re considered two of the best action movies of the last 30 years.

Is Pencak Silat Worth Learning?

Many effective forms of Pencak Silat are worth learning. They’re well-rounded fighting styles that will help improve your self-defense skills. You probably won’t have the skills of Rama from The Raid, but you’ll be more than capable of taking care of yourself.

When we were kids, almost all of us pretended we were one of the Ninja Turtles. Many of us liked Raphael and had a plastic sai weapon that we swung around fighting off foot ninjas.

The martial arts weapon, the sai, has an interesting history we want to share. Going over how sais went from farm tools to weapons practiced by various Okinawan-based martial arts.

What is a Sai?

The sai is a traditional Okinawan weapon associated with Okinawan martial arts and ninjitsu. It is characterized by its distinctive fork shape, with a round, unsharpened prong in the middle.

On the sides, two sharp prongs stick out at right angles.

Each part of the weapon has a specific name in Japanese.

• Monouchi: The center prong that is either rounded or with a point.
• Yoku: The side prongs that function to trap an opponent’s weapon between them.
• Tsumes: The sharp tips of the side prongs.
• Moto: The Center that connects the three prongs.
• Tsuka: The sai handle.
• Saki: The sharp tip of the center prong.

They were predominantly used for thrusting attacks and defensive countering. The two prongs would be used for trapping and blocking.

Catching an enemy’s weapon and even doing techniques to disarm them. Once their enemy was unarmed, they could thrust the sais into their body.

Traditionally, the sai was made of wood, steel, or a mix of both. In modern times, manufacturers make plastic versions of sais that are built for practicing katas and forms.

There have been various styles of sai weapon developed throughout history. In Japan, the most popular style of sai was called “the jitte.”

The History of the Sai Weapon

The sai is a martial arts weapon that was originally a farm tool used for digging and removing weeds. It has been used in various Asian countries like Japan and China but most likely originated in China.

Most know the history of the sai weapon from how it was developed in Okinawa. When the Japanese seized control of the Okinawan Islands, they outlawed Okinawans from owning weapons.

This led Okinawan farmers to begin using farming tools to protect themselves against bandits and corrupt samurai. They would use everything from staffs, boat oars, sythes, and sais to defend themselves.

Many of these farmers were also practitioners of Okinawan martial arts, like Okinawan Kobudo. These weapons laws would also lead to the evolution of ninjas, who would use sais and other weapons on their missions.

The Japanese police force in the 1800s would even arm themselves with sais to defend themselves on patrol.

The sai weapon would be integrated into many other Okinawan-based martial arts as time passed. Later, the sai weapon would become immortalized through pop culture in numerous tv shows, movies, and video games. Most notably, Raphael from The Ninja Turtles.

Martial Arts That Use the Sai

Various Japanese martial arts would integrate the sai into their system. Here are some of the more notable martial arts that use the sai weapon in their curriculums. 

• Okinawan Kobudo: As mentioned above, Okinawan Kobudo is the primary martial art that began using sais in their system. In Okinawan Kobudo, students learn extensive sai techniques along with bo staff, tonfas, and nunchakus.
• Karate: Many early Karate practitioners also practiced Okinawan Kobudo. They would integrate this weapon training into their Karate teachings to make them a more full self-defense system.
• Kung Fu: While Japan used the Sai, Kung Fu styles also incorporated the use of sais in their training. Quite possibly long before sais started being used in Japan.
• Ninjutsu: Then there’s the art of Ninjutsu which was developed during Japan’s occupation of Okinawa. Like Karate practitioners, many ninjas were also Okinawan Kobudo practitioners, who were experts at using weapons adapted from farm tools.

Sai Weapon Techniques 

The sai is a diverse weapon with numerous offensive attacks but is mostly used for defensive counterattacks. They are generally used in pairs as they’re more compact than a sword and give users more protection than wielding one.

The techniques that are practiced with a sai include:

• Striking
• Blocking
• Parrying
• Disarming
• Joint Locks

Sais are used more as countering weapons. They block incoming attacks as they redirect them to counter or disarm an enemy.

The sai can even be used to lock on joint locks. As an enemy’s attack is blocked, you can use the sais to torque an opponent’s wrist.

More advanced sai practitioners would hide their attacks and defenses with flips and rotational movements.

Sai Training 

Training to learn how to wield sais include intense drilling of basic movements. Practicing movements for hours as they learn to sit in their stance while maintaining balance properly.

As you progress and put time into training with the sais, your movements will become more fluid and crisp. Eventually, even do more complex movements, like implementing twirls and flips into your Sai weapon techniques.

The Sai in Popular Culture

The sai weapon has been popularized in various shows, movies, comics, and video games. Everything from the Nina Turtles, Mortal Kombat, Street Fighter, and Avatar: The Last Airbender.

Raphael (TMNT)

Raphael from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is the most known sai practitioner from any story or game. Raphael is the red bandana-wearing turtle that is known for his fighting spirit and use of the sais.

Raph is known for being the brothers’ most passionate and ill-tempered. Because of TMNT, the sai went through a rebirth in popularity. Each year, millions of kids buy toy sais to be like Raphael.

Mileena (Mortal Kombat)

Mileena is one of the longest-running characters from the hit video game Mortal Kombat series. She is known for wielding sais that she uses in different fatality attacks.

Elektra (Marvel Comics)

The Marvel Comics hero Elektra is another character known for her use of sais. She was most notable for being included in the 2002 Daredevil movie and the 2005 self-titles Elektra film. Actress Jennifer Garner portrayed the character in both movies.

Korea has been the birthplace of some of the most practiced martial arts in the world. According to Google, many people often ask how many Korean martial arts are there.

We’ve researched and brought you our comprehensive Korean martial arts list. Check out the list of Korean martial arts below, with descriptions of each one included.

How Many Korean Martial Arts Exist?

Around twelve Korean martial arts are currently practiced around the world today. This number doesn’t include the countless lost arts that the public no longer practices.

You can break up the styles of Korean martial arts into four different categories.

1. Striking Martial Art
2. Grappling Martial Art
3. Weapon-Based Martial Art
4. Hybrid Styles

Gongkwon Yusul

Gonkwon Yusul is a fairly new Korean martial art that was developed in 1996 by Jeong In-Sun. It’s a modern self-defense style that incorporates various Korean and non-Korean martial arts techniques.

Resembling a form of MMA with various strikes, throws, and submissions that are presented like a traditional martial art. Gongkwon Yusul’s popularity has gradually increased since being introduced three decades ago.

Haidong Gumdo

Haidong Gumdo is a sword-based Korean martial art similar to the Japanese sword-based martial arts but with a Korean twist. In Haidong Gumdo, students practice with real and wooden swords called “jingum” and “mokgum.”

Practitioners of this martial art practice perform various sword fighting techniques. Both in a pattern or form while also in real-life sparring matches. Similar to a mix of Kendo and Kenjitsu.

Hapkido

Hapkido is a hybrid style that’s one of the most effective Korean martial arts that’s currently practiced. The name Hapkido translates to “the art of coordinated power.”

It took the principles and techniques of grappling arts like Judo, ssireum, and different striking styles. Combining them all together to make an effective and multi-faceted fighting style.

Hapkido is one of the styles practiced by the South Korean police and military, along with Taekwondo.

Hwa Rang Do

Hwa Rang Do is another one of the effective hybrid styles of Korean martial arts. Dr. Joo Bang Lee and Joo Sang Lee founded this style in the early 1960s. 

It’s an eclectic martial art that incorporates various striking, joint lock, throws, and weapon techniques. This martial art also emphasizes the spiritual growth of their students alongside their skill sets.

Kuk Sool Won 

Kuk Sool Won was created by Suh In-hyuk in 1958 after various attempts to establish a new style. It’s a comprehensive martial art that takes techniques from various Chinese, Japanese, and Korean martial arts.

The style encompasses a wide range of striking and grappling techniques, along with traditional Korean weapons training. This is an effective self-defense style with many beneficial techniques you could learn.

Kumdo

Kumido is also known by many as Korean kendo. When the Japanese occupied Korea, they outlawed Korean martial arts and implemented their own styles.

Koreans would pick up the art of Kendo and change the name to “Kumdo.” Like with Kendo, Kumdo also means “way of the sword.”

For Koreans, practitioners of Kumdo would put a Korean twist on the martial art to make it palpable. Changing the names of techniques into Korean and introducing Korean-style techniques. In Kumdo, they also call the bamboo sword they practice with a “shinai.”  

Shippalgi/Sipalki-Do

Sipalki-Do, sometimes called Shippalgi, is another one of the multi-faceted Korean martial arts. The name Sipalki can be translated to mean the eighteen techniques or skills that the style was founded upon.

The techniques taught at a Sipalki-Do school can vary depending on who the instructor is and who taught them. They may include striking, kicking, blocking, grappling techniques, and weapon training.

Many members of the South Korean military also practice this style of Korean martial art.   

Ssireum

Ssireum is one of the grappling style Korean martial arts that’s considered Korean sumo. Although, the techniques and history of Ssireum are vastly different from the history of Sumo.

It dates back over a thousand years or more in ancient Korea. As time progressed, the sport of Ssireum would evolve into the popular form of wrestling that millions watch today.

This style of wrestling is a mix of Greco-Roman, Judo, and Sumo wrestling that takes place in a dirt ring. The first wrestler who hits the ground loses the match.

Subak/Hwa Soo Do 

Subak is an ancient Korean martial art that was said to have served as the basis for Taekkyon and Taekwondo. The term Hwa Soo Do is another name referring to the art of Subak.

It focuses on hand strikes, kicks, joint locks, and throws. There are many Hwa Soo Do techniques that you can see displayed in both Taekwondo and Takkeyon.

Taekkyon

Takkyon may be the oldest of the Korean martial arts that is still practiced today. This striking martial art dates back centuries, taking elements from earlier styles like Hwa Soo Do.

The popular martial art is known for its fluid motion and dance-like movement. It involves many dynamic kicks, footwork, and sweeps that are played like a game.

In Taekkyon sparring, the goal is to knock your opponent off their feet using these fluid movements. Many top Korean Taekwondo athletes also excel at Taekkyon and vice-versa.

Taekwondo 

Of all Korean martial arts, Taekwondo is, by far, the most internationally practiced martial art. Taekwondo was developed after WW2 as a way to help Koreans re-discover their identities. 

The style consisted of many older Korean martial arts styles like Taekkyon, which they were banned from practicing. Koreans got behind the style that consisted of high-flying kicks, spins, punches, and a mixture of them all.

In just a few decades, Taekwondo became one of the most practiced martial arts in the world.  There are over 100 million Taekwondo practitioners worldwide, and it’s one of the few styles that’s an official Olympic event.

Tang Soo Do 

Tang Soo Do is a Korean martial art that was heavily influenced by the Shotokan style of Karate. Also, other traditional Korean martial arts.

It combines a wide variety of punching, kicking, and blocking techniques that are practiced in both form and sparring. When you watch a Tang Soo Do practitioner, you can clearly see the influence of Karate, Taekwondo, and even Chinese martial arts.