Is Classical Martial Arts Better Than MMA?
[I:http://www.articlefield.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/12/AlCase17.jpg]Classical Martial Arts versus MMA, this is an intriguing question. On one hand, we have the classical practitioner, as in taekwondo or Kenpo and that sort of art. On the other hand we have the people who praise the UFC and regimens such as one would see on the Ultimate Fighter.
Now, obviously, we are going to have a difference of opinion, the main thing is can we come up with some facts, or at least opinions so well grounded, that there is a clear winner? I believe we can.
First, there is sport v art. In a sport one fights an opponent. In an art, one is in conflict, and thus attempting to resolve conflict, with oneself.
Second, there is the matter of control. In a classical art one is attempting to control ones body, ones opponent, and ones own emotions and spirit. In MMA one is all too often just attempting to smash somebody’s face.
Thus far, the edge seems to be going to the classical school of thought. In attempting to control ones own self there is an indisputable high ground. This is not to say, however, that the MMA does not have a voice in this election.
The main factor, UFC stylists would claim, is whether an art works in the dark alley, and in this they would appear to claim an edge. After all, the face smashing, body twisting, arm breaks that one sees in the octagon is definitely useful for self defense. This writer, however, is not completely convinced.
In the ring, no matter what is said, rules are present. No pokes to the eyes, kicks to apples, small joint twisting, punching the back of the skull, and so on. These are the techniques that a classical practitioner might choose in a street encounter.
Thus, in the final vote, while experience with violence, such as one might find in the UFC ring, provides a definite edge, this writer is still going to stick with the classical. After all, in traditional martial arts one learns how to fight without getting mugged, and there are lessons to be learned of a more gentle nature, and which can actually de-escalate conflicts. Choose which you art you wish, however, for both classical martial arts and MMA have much to offer.
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