Japanese Samurai Swords - A Brief History (I)

The first proofs of the existence of samurai swords in Japan date from 240 BC, during the Yayoi period, when the queen Himeko sent a tribute to the Chinese dynasty Wei, two swords. In the 5th century the first samurai katana sword appeared on a major scale. They were straight and they were called chokuto. The method of hardening the folded steel, very specific in Japan, as far as the manufacturing of the Japanese swords is concerned, was used for the first time in the 6th century.

Discover The Ancient Art of Shaolin Kung Fu

My favorite martial art to watch on a movie is shaolin kung fu. It has an exotic past, and is visually spectacular.

Wing Chun Footwork - It's Not Chinese Dancing!

Wing Chun is not difficult to learn and very quickly you can be practicing techniques and footwork to improve your level.

Strength, Flexibility and Power in Martial Arts

The five major attributes of a true exponent of martial arts are strength, flexibility, power, supreme fitness and speed of reflex. The development of strength and flexibility is discussed together with they way they combine to provide true martial power.

If You Could Choose Your Shaolin Kung Fu Master, Who Would It Be?

Any kung fu practitioner who appreciates martial arts history and philosophy, and who feels that this rich heritage is a necessary stepping stone to their own personal growth, will find this article an invaluable reference.

Why Choose Jujitsu Over Any Other Martial Art?

Jujitsu training can improve an individual's aerobic capacity, speed, power, strength, agility and flexibility. It develops complete body control, fine balance and fast reflexive action. Above all, it develops a sharp reacting mind- well coordinated with the same kind of body.

UFC Owners Purchase Pride Fighting Championship

If you're a mixed martial arts fan, you're probably sick of that headline. You're sick of hearing how Lorenzo J. Fertitta and Frank J. Fertitta have purchased PrideFC from it's former Dream Stage Entertainment owners and ousted former CEO Nobuyuki Sakakibara. You want to hear more about what is possible the biggest month in Mixed Martial Arts history, April 2007.

Learn How To Kick - Kicking Effectively In A Self-Defense Or Combat Situation Part 6 Of 10

No matter how well you execute your kick, it isn't going to do you a damn bit of good if you don't strike a specific vital or vulnerable point on your opponent. Sure, for the most part, hitting your opponent somewhere on his-her body is better than not hitting them at all. However, you risk not only having a less effective kick and possibly prolonging the confrontation, but also the very real possibility that you may end up injuring yourself instead of your opponent.

Jab Cross Hook Cross Combination Won't Be Found In Any Fastfood Restaurant Menu

Kickboxing combo's, toning & core strengthening in several simple moves.

Not Your Ordinary Leg Warmers 80's Aerobic Workout

Perfectly woven combination of fat-burning, thigh-trimming, and bun-tightening moves all in a movie?

Learn How To Kick - Kicking Effectively In A Self-Defense Or Combat Situation Part 8 Of 10

Impact is the culmination of everything that we've talked about so far in this series of articles. As you can see from the itemized list above, the first 8 out of 10 total components leads up to and includes making impact with your intended target. Here are a few things that should be considered concerning your kick making impact with your opponent.

A Dummy Can Teach You How to Flow Smoothly From Technique to Technique

Dummy training allows the Wing Chun practitioner a way to correctly train the body in performing techniques. The reason Wing Chung wooden dummy training is so important is that it allows the skin and bones to strengthen and toughen up. When making contact in a real fight, your fists and shins are subjected to a lot of force and pain. Striking air does not get your skin and bones ready for a real fight. Hitting the Mook Jung allows ...

Shotokan Karate - General Background

Shotokan is both a young and an ancient martial art. It is ancient because its roots are deeply entrenched in the past, and young because, as it is expressed today, it is an art that is less than a 100 years old. Shotokan is characterized by its long and low stances, its powerful techniques and its dynamic forms.

The Secrets Behind the Art of the Eight Limbs

These increase strength, speed, power and accuracy and are ideal for the beginner and the master alike.