Martial Art: Definition, History, Types, & Facts
Definition of Martial Arts Martial arts refer to a variety of combat practices and traditions that have been developed over centuries for self-defense, military, and law enforcement applications, as well as mental and spiritual development. The term "martial" is derived from Mars, the Roman god of war, indicating a connection to combat and warfare. Martial arts encompass techniques for unarmed and armed combat, and they often emphasize discipline, respect, and the development of the practitioner's mind, body, and spirit. History of Martial Arts The history of martial arts is as diverse as the many forms it encompasses, spanning thousands of years and multiple continents. Ancient Origins: Martial arts have ancient roots, with early evidence found in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece. The earliest recorded instances date back to 3000 BCE in Egypt, where depictions of combat training were discovered in tombs. Ancient Greek wrestling and pankration, a combinat...