[EXPLAINED] Best Martial Arts for Military Training

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From ancient Spartan warriors to today’s elite forces, martial arts have been pivotal in military training.

This training not only hones physical strength and discipline but also equips soldiers with essential skills for battle.

The diverse martial arts styles globally offer a rich array of techniques and philosophies crucial for military contexts.

In this article, we will be speaking about the best martial arts for military training.

Let’s dive into it.

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7 Best Martial Arts for Military Training

Here are 7 of the best martial arts used for military training:

Krav Maga
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Systema
Muay Thai
Judo
Boxing
Sambo

Let’s take a deeper look into these 7 martial arts and why they are good for military training.

Krav Maga

Krav Maga, which translates to “contact combat” in Hebrew, is a hybrid martial art developed in the 1930s and 40s by Imi Lichtenfeld, a Slovakian-born Israeli martial artist.

He designed Krav Maga to be practical and easy to learn, combining elements of boxing, wrestling, judo, and street fighting.

The philosophy behind Krav Maga is focused on real-world self-defense, emphasizing aggression, speed, and simplicity in techniques to neutralize threats quickly and effectively.

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Why Krav Maga is Suitable for Military Training

Krav Maga’s practicality and emphasis on real-world scenarios make it particularly suitable for military training.

Here are a few reasons why:

Quality	What It Teaches	Significance in Military Context
Simplicity	Krav Maga offers straightforward techniques easy to grasp, even for martial arts newbies.	Speeds up the learning curve for soldiers in hand-to-hand combat and self-defense.
Adaptability	Encourages flexible thinking by teaching how to use the environment and available tools.	Prepares soldiers for the unpredictability of military operations.
Aggression	Puts an emphasis on assertive action and decisiveness.	Helps soldiers cut through hesitation to act swiftly and neutralize threats.
Focus on Self-Defense	Prioritizes techniques aimed at self-defense.	Highly relevant for soldiers who might be in close-quarters combat or unarmed situations.

These qualities collectively contribute to making Krav Maga an incredibly effective martial art for military applications.

Real-Life Examples of Militaries Using Krav Maga

There are a few examples of when they use Krav Maga in real-life situations.

Here are some examples of when they use Krav Maga:

Israel Defense Forces (IDF)

Krav Maga has been an integral part of the IDF’s training since its inception.

It is used to train soldiers in hand-to-hand combat, self-defense, and weapon-disarming techniques.

United States

Various branches of the US military, including the Army, Navy SEALs, and Marine Corps, have incorporated Krav Maga into their training programs to enhance close-quarters combat skills.

European Militaries

Many European militaries, such as those of the UK, France, and Germany, have also integrated Krav Maga into their training regimens, recognizing its practicality and effectiveness in real-world combat situations.

Overall, Krav Maga’s focus on real-world self-defense, simplicity, and adaptability make it an ideal martial art for military training.

Its adoption by various militaries around the world is a testament to its effectiveness and relevance in preparing soldiers for the rigors of combat.

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Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ)

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, commonly known as BJJ, is a martial art that emerged in the early 20th century in Brazil.

Derived from Kodokan Judo ground fighting and Japanese Jujutsu, BJJ was developed by Carlos and Helio Gracie.

Its philosophy revolves around the concept that a smaller, weaker person can effectively defend against a bigger, stronger assailant by using leverage and proper technique, specifically by applying joint locks and chokeholds to defeat the opponent.

Why BJJ is Beneficial for Military Training

Several factors make BJJ an attractive choice for military training:

Aspect	What It Teaches	Significance in Military Context
Ground Combat	BJJ excels in ground fighting techniques that include control, submission and escapes.	Provides military personnel with practical skills for ground confrontations.
Leverage and Technique	Focuses on using technique and leverage rather than sheer strength.	Enables soldiers of diverse sizes and physical capabilities to be effective.
Discipline and Strategy	Often compared to a physical “game of chess,” requiring tactical thinking and planning.	Foster’s discipline, patience, and strategic insight into soldiers.
Fitness and Endurance	Physically intense, boosting overall fitness, flexibility, and stamina.	Builds physical attributes crucial for military personnel, like endurance.

This table highlights how the various elements of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) come together to make it a valuable addition to military training programs.

Real-Life Examples of Militaries Using BJJ

The US Army Combatives Program, which aims to train soldiers in hand-to-hand combat, has incorporated BJJ into its training curriculum.

The US Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP) also includes BJJ techniques in its training.

United Kingdom

The UK military has recognized the benefits of BJJ and incorporated it into their close combat training.

The Royal Marines, in particular, have utilized BJJ techniques in their martial arts program.

Brazil

Naturally, the Brazilian military integrates BJJ into their training, given the martial arts’s roots and popularity in the country.

In summary, BJJ’s focus on ground combat, strategic thinking, and its principle of utilizing leverage and technique over brute strength make it a valuable addition to military training regimes.

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Systema (Russian Martial Art)

Systema, meaning “The System,” is a Russian martial art that traces its roots back to the 10th century.

It was primarily used by the Russian military forces, especially the Spetsnaz, the special forces group of the Russian army.

Systema encompasses more than just combat; it’s a comprehensive system that includes physical conditioning, survival skills, and spiritual practices.

Its philosophy revolves around four main principles: relaxation, proper breathing, correct body positioning, and fluid movements.

Why Systema is Suited for Military Training

Systema’s unique approach to combat makes it an excellent choice for military training.

Here’s why:

Category	Description
Adaptability	Systema isn’t confined to a set of predefined movements or techniques.
	Emphasizes adaptability and creativity.
	Trains soldiers to react effectively to various situations.
Comprehensive Training	Incorporates combat training, physical conditioning, and survival skills.
	Aligns with the multifaceted nature of military training.
Emphasis on Breathing and Relaxation	Teaches control over breathing during combat.
	Advocates relaxation, reducing panic, and enhancing decision-making under pressure.
Unarmed and Armed Combat	Offers training in both unarmed combat and weapon use.
	Advocates relaxation, reducing panic, and enhancing decision-making under pressure.

The table delineates the key aspects of Systema, showcasing its adaptability, comprehensive training modules, emphasis on breathing and relaxation, and its relevance to both unarmed and armed military combat scenarios.

Real-Life Examples of Militaries Using Systema

Systema has been a part of Russian military training for centuries.

The Spetsnaz, Russian special forces, are known for their use of Systema in their rigorous training and combat operations.

Other Eastern European Countries

Owing to historical ties and geographical proximity, several other Eastern European countries have also adopted Systema in their military training regimes.

In conclusion, Systema’s adaptability, comprehensive approach, and emphasis on relaxation and proper breathing make it a highly effective martial art for military training.

Its longstanding use by the Russian military attests to its practicality and effectiveness in real-world combat situations.

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Muay Thai

Muay Thai, also known as “The Art of Eight Limbs,” is a martial art that originated in Thailand during the medieval period as a form of close-combat warfare.

Muay Thai utilizes the body to mimic the weapons of war.

The hands act as the sword and dagger; the shins and forearms are trained to be hard as armor.

The elbow falls opponents like a hammer, and the legs and knees are the axe and staff.

The philosophy of Muay Thai revolves around physical preparation, mental discipline, and a deeply spiritual element tied to its Buddhist origins.

Why Muay Thai is Suitable for Military Training

Muay Thai’s unique characteristics make it beneficial for military training.

Here are some examples of the benefits:

Category	Description
Versatility	Muay Thai uses a wide array of techniques involving fists, elbows, knees, and shins, making it a comprehensive striking art.
	Equips soldiers with a broad range of combat skills due to its versatility in attack methods.
Physical Conditioning	Intense physical conditioning of Muay Thai builds strength, agility, and endurance needed by soldiers.
Mental Toughness	Rigorous training, discipline, and focus in Muay Thai contribute to the mental resilience needed in military operations.
Self-Defense	Striking and clinching techniques in Muay Thai are effective for self-defense and crucial for soldiers in close combat scenarios.

The table encapsulates the core attributes of Muay Thai, highlighting its applicability and benefits for soldiers in terms of combat skills, physical fitness, mental resilience, and self-defense.

Real-Life Examples of Militaries Using Muay Thai

Given its origin, Muay Thai is extensively used in the Thai military for close combat training and physical conditioning.

United States

The U.S. Army’s Modern Army Combatives Program, which teaches hand-to-hand combat as part of basic training, includes techniques derived from Muay Thai.

Other Countries

Due to the effectiveness of Muay Thai in close combat situations, it has been adopted in the military training regimens of various countries, including Israel and Brazil.

In summary, Muay Thai’s emphasis on a wide array of striking techniques, physical conditioning, and mental discipline makes it an excellent choice for military training.

Its use by various militaries around the globe is a testament to its effectiveness in preparing soldiers for the demands of combat.

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Judo

Judo, meaning “gentle way,” is a Japanese martial art founded by Jigoro Kano in 1882.

It evolved from the ancient martial art of Jujitsu and is based on the philosophy of using an opponent’s strength against them.

Judo involves throws, pins, joint locks, and chokes, with an emphasis on safety and full physical activity for top conditioning.

Why Judo is Beneficial for Military Training

Several aspects of Judo make it beneficial for military training.

Let’s take a look at some examples of these benefits:

Aspect	What It Teaches	Significance in Military Context
Throws and Grappling	Specializes in techniques for throws and grappling effective in self-defense and disarming.	Highly applicable for close combat situations that soldiers may face.
Physical and Mental Conditioning	Enhances physical attributes like strength, flexibility, and endurance, along with mental resilience and discipline.	Develops essential qualities in soldiers for both body and mind.
Use of Opponent’s Strength	Highly applicable to close combat situations that soldiers may face.	The core principle is to use an opponent’s strength and momentum against them.
Emphasis on Safety	Prioritizes safety measures to minimize injury.	Helps in preserving a soldier’s health and ensuring combat readiness.

The aspects of Judo encompass both physical skills and mental conditioning, making it a comprehensive and beneficial martial art for military training.

Real-Life Examples of Militaries Using Judo

As the birthplace of Judo, Japan incorporates this martial art into the training regimen of its Self-Defense Forces.

France

The French Foreign Legion, renowned for its rigorous physical training, includes Judo in its martial arts curriculum.

United States

Various branches of the U.S. military, such as the Marine Corps, have incorporated Judo into their martial arts programs.

Russia

Russian special forces (Spetsnaz) also incorporate Judo techniques into their hand-to-hand combat training.

In conclusion, Judo’s focus on throws and grappling, physical and mental conditioning, and its principle of using an opponent’s strength against them make it a valuable addition to military training programs.

Its use by militaries worldwide demonstrates its effectiveness and practicality in a combat setting.

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Sambo

Sambo is a Russian martial art and combat sport that originated in the early 1920s by the Soviet Red Army to improve their hand-to-hand combat abilities.

It was developed by combining Judo and wrestling techniques with traditional folk styles of wrestling such as Armenian Koch, Georgian Chidaoba, and others.

Sambo is an acronym for “SAMozashchita Bez Oruzhiya,” which translates as “self-defense without weapons.”

The philosophy of Sambo revolves around the quick neutralization of threats without the use of weapons.

Why Sambo is Suitable for Military Training

Several aspects of Sambo make it suitable for military training.

Here are the suitable aspects:

Category	Description
Versatility	Sambo includes a wide range of techniques, including throws, strikes, and groundwork, making it a versatile choice for combat training.
Weapon Disarming	Sambo teaches techniques for disarming opponents, a valuable skill in military situations.
Adaptability	Sambo encourages adaptability and improvisation, training soldiers to react effectively to the unpredictable nature of combat scenarios.
Fitness and Endurance	The physical demands of Sambo training improve overall fitness, flexibility, and endurance, which are vital for soldiers.

The table summarizes the key attributes of Sambo, underscoring its relevance and significance in combat and military training scenarios.

Real-Life Examples of Militaries Using Sambo

As the origin of Sambo, it’s extensively used in the Russian military and special forces training. The Spetsnaz, in particular, are known for their use of Sambo techniques.

Former Soviet Republics

Many countries that were once part of the Soviet Union, such as Ukraine and Kazakhstan, continue to use Sambo as part of their military training.

United States

Elements of Sambo have been incorporated into the training regimes of various U.S. special forces units, recognizing its effectiveness in real-world combat situations.

In summary, Sambo’s emphasis on versatility, weapon disarming, adaptability, and physical conditioning makes it an ideal martial art for military training.

Its use by various militaries, especially those of Russia and former Soviet republics, testifies to its practicality and effectiveness in preparing soldiers for combat.

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How Martial Arts Contribute to Discipline, Fitness, Self-Defense, and Combat Readiness

Discipline is a fundamental aspect of martial arts.

Training in any martial art involves learning to control one’s actions, emotions, and reactions.

This translates directly to military discipline, where following orders precisely and quickly is essential for the safety and effectiveness of the unit.

Physical Fitness

Martial arts also contribute significantly to physical fitness.

They enhance strength, flexibility, endurance, and coordination.

These are all vital physical attributes for soldiers, who might have to endure long marches, carry heavy equipment or engage in close-quarters combat.

Self-defense

Martial arts provide a range of techniques for protecting oneself from harm.

These can be particularly useful in situations where soldiers are unarmed or in close combat scenarios.

Techniques can range from strikes, grapples, and throws, to the disarmament of opponents, all skills that can save lives on the battlefield.

Combat Readiness

They train individuals to stay calm and focused under pressure, to anticipate the moves of an opponent, and to react swiftly and decisively when attacked.

This mentality, often referred to as the ‘warrior mindset’, is invaluable in preparing soldiers for the realities of combat.

In the following sections, we will explore some of the most effective martial arts for military training, including their origins, philosophies, and how they contribute to making a soldier combat-ready.

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Conclusion

We’ve delved into martial arts like Krav Maga, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and others, highlighting their importance in global military training.

Each discipline brings unique techniques and philosophies that bolster combat readiness, physical fitness, and strategic thinking.

Whether you’re in the military or just interested in martial arts, exploring these disciplines offers both combat and holistic benefits.

Many offer civilian classes, allowing firsthand experience. In conclusion, martial arts enhance military training by promoting discipline, adaptability, and mental strength.

Their continued use in global militaries underscores their enduring significance and efficacy.