Striking
TypeOverview
Striking martial arts are combat systems primarily focused on attacking an opponent using punches, kicks, elbows, and knees while standing. They range from ancient traditions rooted in Asian warrior culture to modern competitive combat sports. Striking arts emphasize speed, timing, distance management, and power generation through biomechanical principles.
Combat Effectiveness
Overall Combat Rating
Striking arts are highly effective in stand-up combat. Their effectiveness in real fights depends heavily on the specific art — Muay Thai and Boxing are consistently proven in MMA and self-defense, while some traditional forms emphasize kata over sparring. Striking alone is vulnerable to grapplers who close distance.
Street Fight Applicability
Striking is one of the two core pillars of MMA (alongside grappling). Muay Thai provides the standard kickboxing base, Boxing provides hand technique, Karate has produced champions (Machida, Wonderboy). Every successful MMA fighter needs striking competence.
Striking arts have the longest documented competitive history — Boxing dates to ancient Greece (Pygmachia), Muay Thai to 16th century Siam, Karate to Okinawa's 17th century. Striking has been proven in challenge matches, wars, and modern sport competition across thousands of documented bouts.
History & Origin
Lineage & Key Figures
Structure & Training
Competition
Medical & Safety
Sources & References
Green, Thomas A. Martial Arts of the World: An Encyclopedia. ABC-CLIO, 2001.
Geography & Status
7 Regions
East Asian
Karate, Shotokan, Goju-Ryu, Shito-Ryu, Wado-Ryu, Taekwondo, Kung Fu, Wushu, Sanda, Wing Chun, Tai Chi, Baguazhang, Xing Yi Quan, Hung Gar, Choy Li Fut, White Crane, Praying Mantis Kung Fu, Bajiquan, Shaolin Kung Fu, Yiquan, Kyokushin, Shorin-Ryu, Isshin-Ryu, Taido, Tang Soo Do, Taekkyon, Soo Bahk Do, Choi Kwang Do
Southeast Asian
Muay Thai, Lethwei, Pencak Silat, Panantukan, Muay Boran, Muay Chaiya, Muay Lao, Pradal Serey, Bokator, Yaw-Yan, Tarung Derajat, Bando, Lerdrit, Kbach Kun Khmer Boran, Pongyi Thaing, Qwan Ki Do
European
Boxing, Kickboxing, Savate, Bare-Knuckle Boxing, Defendu, Keysi Fighting Method, Combat Hopak
South Asian
Kalaripayattu, Adimurai, Angampora, Vajra-Mushti, Butthan
Americas
American Kenpo, Limalama, Bakom, Combatives, LINE, Chun Kuk Do
African & Oceanian
Dambe, Moraingy, Engolo
Other
Kyusho Jitsu