The world of martial arts is a diverse and dynamic one. From karate’s signature moves to muay thai’s provocative knees and elbows, each practice is marked by its own traits and tricks. So when it comes to choosing one for your child to practice, it’s important to note how each helps shape different strengths, all while honing self discipline and the undeniably practical ability to defend one’s self.
Below is a breakdown of different forms of martial arts and where your kids can practice them in Bangkok.
Aikido is a “grappling art” based in Japan, focusing on flow and agility. Physical strength matters much less than the ability to react to an opponent’s movement and momentum. Entering and turning motions, followed by throws and joint locks, comprise aikido’s basic repertoire.
Thai Aikikai, 1521/3 Sukhumvit 67-69, North Phrakhanong; 02-714-0828/9 or 083-980-116 or 081-827-3515
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is a combative sport that shows people of smaller builds how to defend themselves against larger opponents. It does so by focusing on ground-fighting, teaching students how to dominate via holds and locks conducted on the floor. It maintains elements of traditional jiu jitsu and judo, as well as the striking techniques of karate and tae kwon do.
Bangkok Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, 36/1 Soi Sukhumvit 69 (Salinmit), Sukhumvit Road, Prakanong. Wattana; 02-391-1754
Karate is a practice based in Japan that places a strong emphasis on striking. This is conducted through kicks, punches and open hand strikes, used to disarm one’s opponent on their feet. Takedowns are generally reserved for the final, declarative gesture of a karate fight.
Thai Zendokai Karate Madono, Home Place Building, Floor B, Soi Thonglor 13, Klong Tan Nuea, Wattana, Bangkok; 095-743-9193
Muay Thai is the definitive combat sport of Thailand, famously known as the “Art of Eight Limbs”. This refers to the eight points of contacts: hands, shins, elbows and knees. This makes it one of the more comprehensive and aggressive martial arts with both striking and clinching playing a key role.
Muay Thai Soi 61, 100 Sukhumvit Soi 61, Klong Toey; 098-258-6265
Tae Kwon Do is the Korean art of self-defence, famous for its’ fighters’ speed and agility. Head-level kicks, as well as jumping and spinning kicks, are all features of tae kwon do, each performed with signature speed.
Asia Pacific Taekwondo Academy, 982/22 Gateway Ekkamai, 4th Floor, Klong Toey; 02-003-3993
Wing Chun is a Chinese combat sport that emphasizes flow, balance and centered-ness. A strong body stance in wing chun is like a bamboo: “firm yet flexible”. The centerline, running from the top of one’s head to their waist, are the main striking points and thus, area of defence.
Bangkok Wing Chun Martial Arts Club, 60 Soi Laselle, 17 Sukhumvit 105, near BTS Bearing, Bang Na; 02-116-6284
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