How to Learn Different Fighting Styles

There have been thousands of physical fighting styles throughout the history of the world. With each style comes a unique set of stances, strikes, holds and strategies. Whether you are looking to learn them for personal protection, a means of exercise or just as a recreational activity, learning new fighting styles can be both challenging and rewarding.

Before attempting to learn a new fighting style, it is important to be in proper physical condition for performing the required movements. Checking with your personal physician or training under a professional can drastically reduce the chances of personal injury.

Sources of Information on Fighting Styles:

• Check your local library, book exchange or book store for manuals and magazines related to the fighting style you are interested in.


• Search the Internet for information on your chosen fighting style. When looking, you may be able to find a wealth of instructional videos on sites like YouTube and MetaCafe.


• Check your gym for classes on fighting styles. Many styles of fighting also make great forms of cardiovascular exercise and have made the way onto many cardio class schedules. However, due to liability issues, there may be limited or no sparring involved.


• Check your local paper or phone book for studios dedicated to your chosen fighting style. While this might not be the cheapest option, it provides you with a professional in your fighting style, a structured learning and practice regimen and sparring opportunities.

Optimizing the Learning Process

• Practice multiple times per week. While daily practice may be too strenuous for many people, practicing a few times a week can increase your understanding and progress within a particular fighting style.


• Know your limits and maintain a safe learning environment. While pushing the limits of your abilities allows for growth, it can also cause serious injuries. By maintaining a high level of safety, you avoid unneeded risk and downtime, allowing you to learn and master your chosen fighting style with greater efficiency.


• Find active communities for your fighting style. While you can learn many fighting styles in a solo environment, true understanding and mastery is only obtainable through interactive practicing and sparring. Finding a group of people with similar interests can also help to motivate you when learning becomes difficult or obstacles arise.

There are many sources and techniques for learning different fighting styles. While each way has its own inherent benefits, the most efficient way to learn a fighting style may differ from person to person and style to style.