Combat sports with full contact
If you are drawn to UFC, Pride, and K1, consider Muay Thai, Sanshou, and the mixed martial arts (MMA).
Focus on fitness
Those interested in fitness may consider Taekwondo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Capoeira (and some non traditional styles that emphasize fitness).
Focus on self defense
All martial arts have self defense to varying degrees at their core. These are focused on it primarily: Hapkido, Krav Maga.
Interest in Asian culture
To focus on traditional styles of martial art, consider Shaolin Kung Fu, Shotokan Karate, Wing Chun, Kuk Sool Won, Bujinkan.
Low impact or meditative
See the separate Tips for Tai Chi. Some think of it as meditation and balanced movement, though its origins are in the martial arts.
Select your goal
Common goals for martial arts are get fit, defend yourself, learn about Asian culture, engage in a contact sport or an extreme martial art.
Stand up styles
Standup styles include Karate, Kung Fu, Tae Kwon Do, Boxing/Kickboxing, Krav Maga, Wushu, and San Shou.
Throwing styles
Throwing styles include Judo, Aikido, Shuai Jiao, and Hapkido.
Weapons-based styles
Weapons-based styles include Kali, Lado, and Kendo.
Try Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a close cousin to modern Judo. Where Judo focuses on throws, BJJ focuses on ground fighting.
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