There are various styles in Marital Arts, and these vary in formality in terms of etiquette, ceremony and style of dress. Many of the most formal disciplines are Japanese or Korean, and as well as learning the correct moves and forms, you will also be expected be accomplished in presenting yourself, and addressing your teachers and elders correctly.
These formal styles are not often popular in the West, as many people simply do not have the time to learn all of the many difficult and complicated rules, and instead they tend to take up
martial arts more for fitness and self defense benefits, rather that as a whole way of life.

The most formal Martial Arts include Kendo/Kumdo, Aikido and Tae Kwon Do, and many forms of Karate are also very strict. Jujutsu, Kung Fu and Silat also include many aspects of formal disciplines, but place less emphasis on traditional moves. Ninjutsu and Tai Chai are less formal again, allowing a greater degree of interpretation. The least formal of all the Marital Arts disciplines are Capoeira and Kickboxing, and these allow a great freedom of interpretation and are easily combined with other exercises for all round fitness.

marital arts, martial arts styles

Related posts:

1. Choosing a Martial Arts School
2. How to Choose the Right Martial Arts Discipline for You
3. What is Martial Arts