Top 10 most popular martial arts in the world

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Ever wondered what it would be like to throw a perfect punch or pull off that iconic roundhouse kick? Martial arts aren’t just about flashy moves in action movies—they’re a blend of strength, skill, discipline, and, let’s face it, a little bit of mystery.

Whether you're in it to get fit, learn some self-defense, or just embrace something totally new, martial arts has something for you. And with so many styles to choose from, each with its own unique history and vibe, there’s no shortage of options.

In this article, we're diving into the top 10 most popular martial arts worldwide. Why are these styles topping the charts? What makes them so popular, and what can they offer you? Let’s explore what makes these fighting styles not just physical activities but complete mind-and-body experiences that keep people coming back for more.

What is martial art?

Martial arts are forms of physical training that teach people how to defend themselves, stay fit, and develop self-discipline. The word “martial” comes from Mars, the Roman god of war, reminding us that many of these techniques were originally created for combat. But today, martial arts go far beyond just fighting. They offer ways to build strength, improve focus, and find balance—both mentally and physically.

There are many types of martial arts, each with unique techniques and goals. Some styles, like Karate and Taekwondo, focus on striking—using punches, kicks, and blocks. Others, like Judo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, are about grappling, where you learn to control an opponent with holds and throws. And then there are styles like Tai Chi, which use slow, gentle movements to improve balance, flexibility, and relaxation. Each type brings something different to the table, allowing people to choose what best fits their interests and needs.

Martial arts also teach important values, like respect, patience, and perseverance. Training requires dedication and discipline, which often help people become more confident and resilient in other parts of their lives.

Types of martial arts

Martial arts come in many forms, each with its own techniques, origins, and purposes. From fast-paced strikes to focused meditation, these types of martial arts cater to different goals and offer unique benefits. Here’s a look at some major categories.

1. Striking martial arts

Striking martial arts focus on powerful punches, kicks, and blocks. These styles are designed to keep opponents at a distance and use speed and power to overcome them. Examples include Karate, which emphasizes sharp, precise movements, and Taekwondo, known for its high, spinning kicks. Muay Thai, also called Thai boxing, uses knees and elbows in addition to punches and kicks, making it a versatile and highly effective striking style.

2. Grappling and throwing martial arts

Grappling arts concentrate on close-range techniques, using leverage, holds, and throws to control or subdue an opponent. Judo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) are well-known styles in this category. In Judo, the focus is on balance and throwing techniques, allowing practitioners to use their opponent’s weight against them. BJJ, on the other hand, emphasizes ground fighting and submission holds, such as joint locks and chokeholds, which allow a smaller person to defend against a larger opponent.

3. Weapon-based martial arts

Some martial arts specialize in weapons training, teaching practitioners how to use tools like swords, staffs, or knives. Kendo, a Japanese art, focuses on swordsmanship using bamboo swords and protective armor, while Eskrima (or Arnis/Kali) from the Philippines teaches the use of sticks, knives, and other bladed weapons. Training with weapons can develop coordination, reflexes, and an understanding of distance and timing.

4. Internal or meditative martial arts

These martial arts prioritize the development of inner energy, balance, and mental focus. Tai Chi and Qigong are Chinese arts that use slow, controlled movements to enhance relaxation, coordination, and overall well-being. Though they may not appear as “combative,” these styles focus on deep breathing and inner strength, making them beneficial for health and stress relief.

5. Hybrid or Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)

Modern fighting styles like Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) combine techniques from multiple martial arts, such as striking, grappling, and submission holds. MMA has gained massive popularity through sports competitions like the UFC, where fighters train across different disciplines to become well-rounded. It’s a versatile approach that requires fighters to adapt and defend against various fighting techniques.

Determining the most popular Martial Arts

So, how do we figure out which martial arts are the most popular worldwide? It turns out that several things contribute to a style’s popularity—like how many people practice it, how often we see it in movies or competitions, and even how easy it is to find a school near you. Let’s break down the main factors that help some martial arts rise to the top.

1. Global reach and number of practitioners

One of the simplest ways to tell how popular a martial art is? Check how many people actually train in it! Arts like Karate, Taekwondo, and Judo have made their way across the globe, with dojos in nearly every city. These styles have international organizations and standardized training programs, which make them accessible to millions of people. So, if there’s a local club, you can bet that style has a huge following worldwide.

2. Media exposure and cultural influence

Movies, TV shows, and even video games have done a lot to spread the word about martial arts. Think about Bruce Lee and the wave of Kung Fu movies in the 70s—suddenly, everyone wanted to try Kung Fu! Fast-forward to today, and MMA is doing the same for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai, thanks to events like the UFC. Even social media is helping spread awareness, with martial artists sharing their skills and inspiring others to join in.

3. Competitive success and olympic inclusion

When a martial art becomes part of major sports events, it tends to draw even more attention. Judo and Taekwondo, for example, are both Olympic sports, which not only gives them massive exposure but also adds a level of prestige. People love watching athletes compete, and often, that inspires them to try the style themselves. And even though Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu isn’t in the Olympics, it’s widely respected in MMA, which keeps it in the spotlight.

4. Accessibility and training opportunities

The more accessible a martial art is, the easier it is for people to get involved. Karate and Taekwondo schools are pretty much everywhere, so it’s simple for someone to sign up and start training. Martial arts like MMA or Muay Thai, which require specialized training or facilities, used to be harder to find, but with the rise in popularity, there are now more gyms offering these classes. Cost also plays a role—some styles require less equipment, making them easier and cheaper to try out.

5. Cultural and traditional appeal

Martial arts come with a lot of history and tradition, which appeals to people who are looking for more than just a workout. Styles like Kung Fu or Aikido don’t just teach you physical techniques; they also carry deep philosophies and cultural significance that make the journey of learning feel richer. For some, it’s this connection to history and tradition that makes a martial art truly appealing.

Top 10 most popular martial arts in the world

Let’s jump into the world of martial arts! Each one of these styles has something special, drawing in millions of people worldwide. Whether you’re curious about learning self-defense, getting in shape, or just trying something new, here are ten martial arts that have captured hearts (and a few punches) around the world.

1. Taekwondo

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If you love the idea of high kicks and fast moves, Taekwondo might be for you. This Korean martial art is famous for its dynamic kicks and quick, powerful strikes, often with cool jumping techniques. It’s super popular—about 70 million people practice it worldwide—so you’re definitely not alone if you want to give it a shot.

2. Karate

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Karate is one of those styles almost everyone’s heard of. Originating from Japan, it’s focused on strong punches, sharp kicks, and self-discipline. With around 50 million practitioners globally, Karate is a solid choice for building both strength and mental focus, not to mention learning some classic moves.

3. Judo

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If you’re not into punching or kicking but love the idea of throws, Judo could be right up your alley. Created in Japan, Judo is about using an opponent’s force against them—think controlled throws and grappling. It’s an Olympic sport, and over 20 million people practice it worldwide. Plus, landing that perfect throw is incredibly satisfying!

4. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)

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BJJ has really grown in popularity, especially because of its role in MMA. It’s all about ground fighting and using technique (rather than size or strength) to control your opponent. Even if you’re smaller, BJJ teaches you how to hold your own, which is why around 7 million people love it.

5. Kung Fu

Kung Fu is actually a group of martial arts from China, known for its smooth, flowing movements and sometimes even weapons training. It’s as much about philosophy and mental discipline as it is about physical technique, and it’s perfect for people looking to dive into something with a rich history.

6. Muay Thai

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Muay Thai, or the “Art of Eight Limbs,” uses punches, kicks, elbows, and knees, giving you a lot of options in a fight! It’s a practical and powerful martial art from Thailand that’s gained a huge following worldwide, especially for those who want a challenging workout and effective self-defense skills.

7. Aikido

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Aikido takes a more peaceful approach. Instead of hitting, you use your opponent’s energy against them with joint locks and throws. Created in Japan, Aikido is all about balance, calmness, and control, which makes it appealing for people who prefer a less aggressive martial art.

8. Boxing

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Boxing is a classic combat sport and martial art where two people face off, throwing punches for a set amount of time within a ring. Boxers wear protective gear like gloves, hand wraps, and mouthguards to keep injuries in check. Known for its focus on technique, agility, and endurance, boxing has millions of fans and practitioners worldwide.

9. Capoeira

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Capoeira is as fun as it is unique! It’s a mix of martial arts, dance, and music that started in Brazil. Practitioners perform movements to music, making it feel almost like a dance. Capoeira has a special cultural vibe and is as much about expression and community as it is about self-defense.

10. Mixed Martial Arts (MMA)

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MMA brings together techniques from various martial arts, like striking and grappling, so fighters are skilled in a bit of everything. It’s one of the most versatile martial arts, especially with the popularity of events like the UFC. MMA is perfect for people who want to be well-rounded fighters and are open to blending styles.

Conclusion

Martial arts are more than just fighting techniques—they’re a blend of skill, discipline, and culture that bring people together worldwide. Whether it’s the powerful kicks in Taekwondo, the smooth moves of Judo, or the intense focus of Krav Maga, each style has something special to offer. Martial arts give you a chance to challenge yourself, learn something new, and grow both physically and mentally.

Finding the right martial art is all about what clicks with you. Maybe you’re drawn to the fast-paced action of Muay Thai, or maybe the balance and philosophy of Aikido feel like a better fit. Each style has its own community, its own vibe, and its own way of helping you push your limits and build confidence.

So, if you’ve been thinking about giving martial arts a try, why not go for it? With tons of schools, online classes, and local clubs, there’s no shortage of ways to get started. Martial arts aren’t just about learning to defend yourself—they’re a path to self-discovery, confidence, and a whole new perspective on what your body and mind can do. 

Cheers,

Friska 🐨

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