Martial Arts for Christians
How many people ever wonder if martial arts is really effective? Can it really change a how a person see things What about Christians who face persecution? Can martial arts be proven useful to them as well? Christians should take martial arts because it is a form of self-defense that can be used in situations of persecution and teaches self-discipline.
The history of martial arts is varied depending on the type. Kung Fu has its roots set in China. In 1372, Okinawa began an official relationship with China. This agreement allowed China to expand its trade with other countries, as well as to spread Kung Fu throughout the region. As an Imperial gift to Okinawa, a group of Chinese artisans and merchants were sent …show more content…
Kung Fu, An extremely disciplined, powerful martial art where strength is built in low stances and powerful blocks. Some Kung Fu blocks are so powerful that it can break the arm of someone who is punching at that person. Kung Fu has many systems like Hung-Gar, WuShu, Wing Chun, and others. Kung Fu is for the patient, and mentally and physically strong person. It was the basis for many later forms of martial arts. Over the years, kung fu developed into different styles such as Wing Chun, Drunken boxing and styles based on animal movements like the crane or a snake. The reason for such diversity was simple. People rarely traveled far from their homes and kung fu evolved in different locations. In northern China, martial arts emphasized kicking and leg work. In the South, various forms of boxing were most common. Top kung fu stars today have mastered different styles as well. Jet Li is best known as a practitioner of Wu Shu which uses many different styles emphasizing fluid motion. Jackie Chan learned kung fu while training in a Chinese opera school in Hong Kong and boosts a mastery of the "five animal styles" of kung fu which is highlighted in the film Shaolin Wooden Men. Today many kung fu styles exist and are still passed on as family traditions and through classes.
Shotokan Karate began on the island of Okinawa. Shotokan Karate also is one of the four main schools of Karate in Japan. It is best characterized by its long and deep stances and its use of more linear movements. Shotokan Karate has few of the circular movements found in Okinawan styles of karate, nor does it have the body conditioning and supplementary training exercises typical for Okinawan Goju-Ryu Karate. Shotokan Karate is considered by many a sports style of Karate, where tournaments and point-sparring are central to the art. (“Types of Martial