What Was the First Martial Art in History?

Art|Art History

The practice and study of martial arts is an ancient practice with a long and varied history. As far back as 2000 B.C., warriors in China, Japan and other countries were mastering martial arts as a means of self-defense and combat. While there is no definitive answer to which martial art was the first in history, many experts believe it to be one of the three ancient styles: Kalaripayattu, Jujutsu or Shuai Jiao.

Kalaripayattu

Kalaripayattu is an ancient Indian martial art that originated in the southern part of India more than 3000 years ago. It combines strikes, kicks, grappling, preset forms, weaponry and healing methods. The fighting style is believed to have been developed by warriors in the region who needed to defend themselves against invading forces.

Jujutsu

Jujutsu (also known as Ju-Jitsu or Jiu-Jitsu) is a Japanese martial art that dates back to feudal Japan. It is believed to have been created by samurai warriors who needed a way to fight without weapons. It focuses on using an opponent’s force against them by using throws, joint locks and other techniques designed to incapacitate or control an attacker.

Shuai Jiao

Shuai Jiao is a Chinese martial art that dates back more than 4000 years. It combines elements from both Kalaripayattu and Jujutsu with some Greco-Roman wrestling techniques. The fighting style focuses on takedowns, throws and joint locks as well as strikes and kicks.

Conclusion

The exact origins of martial arts are difficult to pinpoint but it is widely accepted that one of the three ancient styles – Kalaripayattu, Jujutsu or Shuai Jiao – was likely the first in history. All three styles have evolved over time but their core principles remain the same: self-defense, physical fitness and mental discipline.