Tag: Combat

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.

Many of the world’s best martial arts were developed and practiced within Japan. Many martial artists often want to know how many Japanese martial arts exist.

That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive list of the most known Japanese martial arts. Below is a list of the most known martial arts from the land of the Rising Sun in alphabetical order with descriptions for each style.

How Many Japanese Martial Arts Are There?

Around fifteen or more prominent Japanese martial arts have been created over history. Numerous subgenres of styles came from these eighteen styles, which would be quite a feat to list.

You can break down the styles of Japanese martial arts in five different categories.

• Weapon-Based Martial Art
• Grappling
• Striking
• Horsemanship
• An Infusion of Two or More of these Styles

Aikido

Aikido is a non-aggressive martial art that focuses on redirecting an opponent’s energy and using it against them. This martial art uses various counter throws and joint locks against an attacking opponent.

This Japanese martial art was created by Morihei Ueshiba, who synthesized various styles of jujutsu together to make Aikido. It gained international popularity throughout the 20th century. Gradually being introduced and taught in numerous countries worldwide.

It is still practiced today, although many of the techniques have been proven ineffective against more modern fighting styles.

Judo

The art of Judo is one of the world’s most practiced Japanese martial arts. It was developed by Grandmaster Jigoro Kano, who studied various styles of jujutsu.

Through his training, Kano developed an effective grappling style that he would call Judo. A self-defense style, where you leverage and timing is used to throw/ sweep an opponent. Taking them to the mat and controlling them from on top.

Judo is considered one of the world’s most effective Japanese martial arts. This martial art is also responsible for the development of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Jujutsu (Japanese Jiu-Jitsu)

Jujustu is a blanket term that defines a wide variety of Japanese Jiu-Jitsu styles. There are hundreds of subgenres of JJJ that have been created.

They consist of numerous aspects of grappling, like throws, submissions, and controlling position. Modern Jujutsu (Japanese Jiu-Jitsu) resembles Brazilian Jiu-Jitu, taking elements from all previous JJJ styles.

If you practice BJJ, you do many of the same techniques that are done in modern JJJ. Some of the best Japanese MMA stars in the world are high-level Japanese Jiu-Jitsu practitioners.

Iaido

Iaido, or “Way of Drawing the Sword,” focuses on the art of quickly and efficiently drawing your sword. Drawing your sword as precisely and fast as possible to execute cutting techniques.

This is an ancient weapon art that was practiced for centuries within Japan. Samurais and soldiers were constantly at war and had to be effective with a blade. They would practice this art for hours every day.

In modern times, we don’t use swords as much, but Iaido is still widely practiced in Japan. Iaido practitioners are keeping this part of Japanese culture alive by continuing to practice this weapon art.

Karate

Karate is one of the most known Japanese martial arts. When people think of Japanese martial arts, Karate is always one of the first styles brought up.

The striking art of Karate was developed in the early 20th century by numerous Japanese martial arts masters. It was created based on an Okinawan fighting style with influences from Chinese Kung Fu.

Karate consists of various punches, kicks, knees, and other open-handed techniques. It’s one of the world’s most practiced martial arts, with numerous sub-styles derived from the style.

Kempo/Kenpo

Kempo or Kenpo, like Karate, is a blanket term that’s used for several types of striking martial arts. This Japanese martial art combines the techniques of traditional Japanese martial arts and Chinese martial arts.

The term Kenpo is translated to “Ken,” meaning fist, and “Po,” meaning way. Put together, they translate to the way of the fist.

Like Karate, a wide variety of styles of Kempo/Kenpo are practiced worldwide. Each style practices various techniques, but all use Kenpo/Kempo in their names.

Kendo 

One of the most known weapon-based Japanese martial arts is the art of Kendo. A popular weapon-based martial art that means “Way of the Sword.”

Practitioners use bamboo swords called “shinais” and practice sword fighting with full body armor. It is practiced to emphasize the development of your spirit as you learn proper sword-fighting techniques.

Kendo is still widely practiced in Japan, with many practitioners continuing to keep the art alive.

Kenjutsu 

Kenjutsu is another sword-based Japanese martial art that is practiced with a real katana. The art of Kenjutsu consists of practicing numerous techniques and katas alone.

Going through methodical movements for hours a day as they strive to perfect their technique. Many practitioners of Kenjitsu also practiced the sparring art of Kendo. Learning to put their Kenjutsu techniques into action in real sparring matches.

Kyudo

Kyodo is one of the archery styles of Japanese martial arts that was developed centuries ago. The word Kyudo translates to the “way of the bow” and is one of the best archery styles in the world.

The practice of Kyudo emphasizes a meditative and spiritual approach to shooting an area. Learning to stay calm and keep a proper breathing pattern as you focus on hitting your target.

Kyodo archers are among the best archers in the world, with numerous demonstrations with millions of views.

Naginatajutsu

Naginatajutsu is a weapon-based Japanese martial art that practices techniques using a naginata. A long bo-staff that has a curved blade on the end of it.

Practitioners learn thrusting, sweeping, and striking techniques while learning to keep at long range. Historically, women have been the best Naginatajutsu practitioners, as you can see from the video above. They have the perfect body types to perform naginata techniques.

Ninjutsu 

Another one of the most known Japanese martial arts is the art of Ninjutsu. A historical martial art that is associated with the skills and tactics that were said to be used by ninjas.

Some of the tactics included stealth, espionage, unconventional combat methods, and what some describe as dark techniques. Ninjas were said to have adapted from anti-weapon laws that were implemented by Japanese shogun warlords.

This would lead some rebels to dawn black close and go on secret missions, like assassinations. There are also many fake Ninjutsu artists, as we described in our list of the biggest fake martial artists in history. 

Sumo 

Sumo is one of the oldest Japanese martial arts in the history of the nation. It’s a style of wrestling, two wrestlers sit in a circular ring with two goals in mind.

Either pushing their opponent out of the ring or taking them off their feet. It’s one of the world’s most respected Japanese martial arts, with a loyal fanbase.

In Japan, a top sumo athlete is treated like a star in the same way Lionel Messi or Jon Jones is treated. Revered and respected by all.

Sojutsu 

Sojutsu is a weapon-based Japanese martial art of spear fighting. Students of Sojutsu practiced various stances, thrusts, and defenses using a long staff with a metal-bladed end called a “ yari.”

This was one of the weapon-based martial arts that soldiers and samurais practiced. Modern-day Sojutsu practitioners even practice traditional samurai armor, as shown in the video above. Depicting how a samurai would fight with the long-bladed staff.

Taido

The unique Japanese martial art known as Taido has its own style. Taido consists of various attacks either hidden within or mixed into flying acrobatic movements.

It also incorporates elements of dance into the teachings, which many consider it Japan’s version of Capoeira. This martial art emphasizes blending fluid and dynamic movements for self-defense and personal development.

Yabusame

Yabusame is another form of Japanese archery that has been practiced for centuries. In this style of archery, students learn to shoot arrows while riding horseback.

Practitioners aim to hit various targets as they zoom past them at high-speed on a horse. If you’ve seen any movie or anime where samurais are shooting arrows while riding a horse, you’ve seen Yabusame.