Overview

Combat Sports

Combat sports are competitive disciplines broadly categorized into striking (boxing, karate, taekwondo, etc.), grappling (judo, wrestling, jujutsu, etc.), mixed martial arts (MMA), and weapons-based (kendo, etc.). Developed since ancient times as a means to compete human physical ability and mental strength, they are now enjoyed worldwide as Olympic sports and professional competitions. They are practiced for various purposes including self-defense, fitness, and spiritual training.

sports martial arts combat sports Olympic boxing judo karate MMA
code slug name description category olympic origin
01 boxing Boxing A striking combat sport using only fists to attack the face and body. Striking true England
02 wrestling Wrestling A grappling combat sport focusing on throws and pins. Grappling true Ancient World
03 judo Judo A Japanese grappling martial art combining throws and ground techniques. Grappling true Japan
04 karate Karate A striking martial art from Okinawa focusing on punches and kicks. Striking true Japan (Okinawa)
05 taekwondo Taekwondo A Korean striking martial art characterized by dynamic kicking techniques. Striking true Korea
06 mma Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) The most practical combat sport combining striking, throwing, and grappling. Mixed/Hybrid false Global (Brazil, USA, Japan, etc.)
07 kendo Kendo A traditional Japanese fencing sport using bamboo swords and protective armor. Weapons-based false Japan
08 jujutsu Jujutsu An ancient Japanese grappling system featuring joint locks and throws. Grappling false Japan
09 muay-thai Muay Thai A Thai striking martial art known as the strongest stand-up fighting using elbows and knees. Striking false Thailand
10 brazilian-jiu-jitsu Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu A grappling martial art emphasizing ground fighting with joint locks and chokes. Grappling false Brazil
11 kickboxing Kickboxing A striking combat sport combining punches and kicks. Striking false Japan / Netherlands / USA
12 sambo Sambo A Russian grappling martial art combining Judo and Wrestling techniques. Grappling false Russia

A collective term for competitive sports using striking, throwing, grappling, and weapon techniques.