See how to categorize martial arts.
When you study martial arts in Ann Arbor at JMAC, there are multiple styles to learn! We offer iaido, nihon jujutsu, judo, and karate programs.
Not sure which art is right for you?
You can watch a class with no obligation! See our schedule. If you’re happy with what you see, you can schedule two free intro lessons to make sure your choice is a good fit.
Contact us today to begin practicing martial arts in Ann Arbor!
Have you noticed some martial arts are physical and powerful, while others seem peaceful and introspective?
How can these differences between martial arts be categorized?
One way is to distinguish between internal and external, or hard and soft styles. The distinction between internal and external comes from how the arts are learned, while the distinction from hard and soft comes from the fighting approach.
External martial arts include judo, karate, Muay Thai, and Hungar kung fu. These arts are typically more concerned with developing athletic skill sets - movements that rely on muscular strength, cardiovascular fitness, and explosive power. When learning external martial arts, you’ll likely improve your physical fitness first, and after reaching your physical limit, focus on internal elements that can improve your physical performance, like breathing and relaxation. External martial arts often have you learn movements first, then their meaning/purpose. Think of it this way: you’re learning the art from the outside (your body) to the inside (your spirit).
Learn more about internal, soft, and hard martial arts.
When you study martial arts in Ann Arbor at JMAC, there are multiple styles to learn! We offer iaido, nihon jujutsu, judo, and karate programs.
Not sure which art is right for you?
You can watch a class with no obligation! See our schedule. If you’re happy with what you see, you can schedule two free intro lessons to make sure your choice is a good fit.
Contact us today to begin practicing martial arts in Ann Arbor!
