Though most think of Asian styles of combat when hearing the term “Martial Arts,” the term derives from the Latin “Arts of Mars,” referring to the Roman God of war. Martial Arts are a style of combat created for defense that has proscribed movements and includes a code of conduct that emphasizes restraint and humility.

Originally, Martial Arts had cultural and religious ties. The styles of the Martial Arts, once very strict in form, have been mixed and modernized into a variety of methods of movement that no longer focuses simply on combat or defense. The Martial Arts are considered a sport that draws audiences and adherence to matches from all over the world. The stylized movements are also recognized as a positive form of healthy exercise for all ages.