Simply, martial arts are various methods of unarmed and armed combat. There is a difference between martial art and martial sport . The sport application of a combat system is not necessarily martial or artistic. The martial arts have become popular for health and fitness, competitive sport, as means of increasing self-confidence, assertiveness, concentration, personal defense. and finally as forms of self-expression.

Are martial arts right for me?
There are many aspects to be considered when selecting a martial art. Factors to consider when selecting a martial art for you:

-your physiological make up
-your physical body type
-your age
-your health
-your personal fitness goals

Many of these things will probably have an effect on your training. Remember though, these are factors, not disqualifications or barriers to entry. There is a martial art style out there best suited to you and your martial art training goals.

What is the best martial art style?
The truth is that there is no single “best” style. Most styles share these two common traits:

1. For any of the styles to be useful, you must first fully learn a style completely. 

2. The basic physiology of the human body only allows for so many different movements and techniques.
 

A simple kick may be taught several different ways and called by different names according to different styles, yet the basic body mechanics remain the same. Base your martial art style selection on its relevance to your personal martial arts training goals and objectives.

What is the difference between sport martial arts and self-defense?
The simple difference between the two is that sport martial arts follow rules or guidelines, while self defense has no restrictions. In a controlled environment with refs and rules, sports martial arts flourishes in many varieties: sparring, weapons, open hand and creative forms. Self defense is about self protection against physical harm under any conditions or circumstances.

Many of the better schools and instructors will treat these two disciplines separately to better prepare their students for the realities of each. Select a style that has the proper emphasis on these disciplines that best complements your personal training goals.