Have you ever wanted to explore the culture of martial arts? Did you turn on the TV at 2 a.m. and see an exciting but cheesy Karate movie? Are you interested in the history and accomplishments of the martial arts style? Did you know that there are over 180 types of martial arts? If you are considering exploring different martial arts styles, you are in luck! AmeriKick Martial Arts studio can help you discover the wonderful martial arts world. They have several locations in the east and midwest of the United States. Go here for a spot in your area.
Let the facts begin!
The literal meaning of martial arts is fascinating. Martial translates to “mu” in the Chinese character. “Mu” means “to stop fighting.” Arts translates to skill and creativity. Putting them together gives you “break off combat expertly.”
We all know who Bruce Lee is. Did you know he is the most dominant martial artist of all time? He was responsible for showing the world Chinese martial arts for the first time. Lee also introduced Jeet Kune Do, a hybrid of unarmed fighting and philosophy. Unfortunately, Lee died in 1973 at the young age of 32.
Have you ever wondered why Japanese belts go from white(beginning) to black(ending)? During WW2, Japan was a poor country trying to survive. They decided to dye the belts once the person rose in rank to save money.
Chuck Norris is a back belt in Judo, Tang Soo Do, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. In 1958 he was in the United States Air Force. Norris was stationed in South Korea, where he started his love for martial arts, beginning with Tang Soo Do. Training alongside Bruce Lee in his backyard, he went on to open various martial arts studios. Norris has been an influential trainer for several famous people, such as Bob Barker, Steve McQueen, and Priscilla Presley.
Practicing martial arts helps the mind function better. Several studies prove that children, as well as adults with autism or ADD, can benefit from all styles of martial arts. They are more focused and can concentrate more efficiently.
The MMA (mixed martial arts) was a staple in the ancient Olympics in Olympia. Called Pankration back then, it has yet to make its way to the modern-day Olympics.
The Japanese Master Yoshiaki Yamashita taught Teddy Roosevelt Judo, becoming the first American to learn Judo. He achieved the rank of third brown belt and decorated the White House basement with training mats.
Every year, 3.6 million people in the United States practice some form of martial arts. Additionally, 85% of martial artists are under the age of 13.
During the filming of “Never Say Never Again,” Sean Connery took martial arts lessons from Steven Seagal. Connery upset Seagal so much that Seagal broke Connery’s wrist.
Jason David Frank, who was Tommy in the original Power Rangers, was an expert in several martial arts styles. He was a Guinness World Record holder for breaking the most 1-inch pine boards. Frank was also inducted into the World Karate Union Hall of Fame and was a popular MMA fighter. Unfortunately, Frank died in 2022 at the age of 49.
Are you excited about some martial arts magic of your own? Call AmeriKick Martial Arts studio at (856) 797-0300 or visit their website to find a location near you. Become the next grand martial arts champion!