There are many cultures around the world that have adapted their own styles to the discipline of martial arts. Some of the types of martial arts have incorporated the use of weapons, while others rely on the power of the body and the use of various limbs. These types are used throughout the world are very effective methods of self-defense and serve as an outlet for a person to display an image of their inner qualities, which harness the powers of peace and tranquility.

The disciplines of martial arts have originated in many countries and each style has progressed to varying stages which are influenced by a specific region of the country to produce other styles of the same discipline. The most common styles are the stand-up styles and those used for ground fighting. Some have been fine tuned to become grappling styles that are effective in certain combat situations, and others have progressed to an art form that centers on using various weapons.

Some martial art disciplines are known throughout the world by name. People have a thorough understanding of the discipline known as karate, but many people do not know that it originated in Japan. The lesser known varieties would be the meditative styles that originated in China. Tai Chi is well known by enthusiasts by name, but people seldom tie the cultural roots of Chi Gon or Ba Gua to China.

A form of the Ba Gua discipline has been adapted by the Indian cultures but is not considered to be a meditative style of martial arts. The Chinese use the Ba Gua discipline as a meditative art form but people around the world have also adapted this discipline to provide feelings of equality within the interiors of the home. This concept is known throughout the world as feng shui and people enjoy the calmness that is derived by balancing color properties to develop a sense of calm and balance throughout the home.

Other well known martial arts disciplines come from countries like Korea. Tae Kwon Do is one of those stand-up styles that people gain valuable martial arts skills from by enrolling in weekly classes in their hometowns. This form is suitable for all age groups. Other martial arts skills incorporate stand-up styles but require the use of various body parts to implement the discipline more effectively.

Krav Maga and San Shou are disciplines that incorporate boxing and kickboxing styles with the martial arts techniques of many countries. Krav Maga is a discipline that is widely used in Israel but can be adapted for use by anyone who needs a great defensive response. San Shou is a full contact-fighting stance that originated in China and has been included in martial arts competitions throughout the world for many years. This type of martial arts centers on using the unbound hand as a weapon, while using kick-boxing techniques to neutralize an opponent.