Long ago, before the invention of the wheel, or even civilization itself, men developed a codified system in which they could defend themselves. It had nothing to do with art or a spiritual philosophy. The techniques were simply there as a defense to the onslaught of animals or other human beings. The techniques were primitive and were not associated with war, or the strength that came with it.

As time passed the knowledge was passed down from father to son, and regarded as secretive and important. Although not exclusive to the Orient, martial arts as a way of life are regarded to have started with the Shaolin monks during the 7th century. Buddhism, which is known to have started in India, was a way of life for the monks. The monks were known to practice hand and foot movements in their daily rituals, which is known as Kung Fu.

Over time the knowledge spread and various parts of Asia adapted a style that became indigenous to its people. Disciplines were specific in their focus, and evolved to complex defensive and offensive techniques. Out of Japan came Karate, Jiu-Jitsu, and Judo. Korea produced Taekwondo. From Thailand came the Muay-Thai style of boxing.

Although numerous disciplines are of Asian descent, hand and foot combat was of no way exclusive to the Orient. The Brazilians took the idea of Jiu-Jitsu and innovated it so it became their own unique blend of combat techniques. The Romans and Greeks both contributed to form freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling. The Russians developed Sambo, which is a self-defense system that encompasses many different martial arts techniques.

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