The Best Martial Arts to Learn

Published January 1st, 2022 - 12:35 GMT
The Best Martial Arts to Learn
Muay Thai fighters kicking each other.

If you have ever wanted to learn how to fight, defend yourself, or get in shape then you’ve probably thought about signing up for some martial arts classes. But with so many martial arts to choose from, it can be hard to figure out where to start. Well, keep reading if you can relate because we’ll be breaking down some of the best martial arts to learn.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

The Best Martial Arts to Learn

Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) is of the best martial arts to learn for anyone new to martial arts or sports. You don’t need to be big, strong, or even athletic to be good at BJJ.

It’s a grappling and submission art that uses technique to level the playing field against someone who might have a physical advantage over you.

It’s no exaggeration to say that if you’re experienced in Brazilian jiu-jitsu you can easily put someone 22 kilograms (50 pounds) heavier than you into a position where you can choke them unconscious or snap a joint.

It’s an art that’s amazing for self-defense and it’s also very training friendly. Meaning, you can spar in BJJ near 100% effort and when you get caught in a dangerous position, you just tap to let your partner know you give up then you go again injury free.

Boxing

The Best Martial Arts to Learn

In terms of learning how to punch and not get punched, boxing is hands down one of the best martial arts to learn.

It’s one of the most popular sports in the world so no matter where you live there should be boxing classes nearby.

And while boxing isn’t the best for self-defense (in self-defense you don’t want to be exchanging punches) it is amazing for your cardio.

If one of your goals in taking martial arts classes is to get in shape or lose weight then boxing is the way to go. There are also so-called fit boxing classes, where boxing is used solely for getting a workout instead of learning how to fight.

Muay Thai

The Best Martial Arts to Learn

Muay Thai is of the best martial arts to learn if you want to learn striking. Some of the best techniques for throwing knees, elbows and kicks come from Muay Thai.

And like boxing, Muay Thai is popular around the world so classes near you should be easy to find.

But be ready for some intense workouts because a ton of cardio is required in Muay Thai practices, and some of the techniques are hard on your body.

If you’ve never kicked a heavy bag before prepare to end up with some bruised shins after taking a Muay Thai class.

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