Here is a comprehensive list of martial arts styles and self-defense techniques from around the world, organized by continent and country:
Asia
- China:
- Kung Fu (various styles): ancient, evolving over centuries.
- Tai Chi: 16th century.
- Wing Chun: 17th century.
- Japan:
- Karate: Ryukyu Kingdom, 17th century.
- Judo: 1882.
- Aikido: early 20th century.
- Sumo: ancient, professional tournaments from the 17th century.
- Korea:
- Taekwondo: 1940s.
- Hapkido: mid-20th century.
- Thailand:
- Muay Thai: 18th century.
- Krabi Krabong: Ayutthaya Kingdom, 14th–18th centuries.
- Philippines:
- Eskrima/Arnis: Spanish colonial period.
- India:
- Kalaripayattu.
- Vietnam:
- Vovinam.
Europe
- Russia:
- Sambo: 1920s.
- France:
- Savate (French kickboxing): 19th century.
- Greece:
- Pankration: Ancient, 7th century BC.
- Germany:
- Ringen: Medieval period.
- United Kingdom:
- Modern boxing.
- Spain:
- Fencing.
Americas
- Brazil:
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: early 20th century.
- Capoeira: 16th century.
- Vale Tudo.
- United States:
- Krav Maga: 1940s.
- American Kenpo: 1940s.
- Marine Corps Martial Arts.
- Modern forms of boxing, wrestling, and mixed martial arts (MMA).
Africa
- Southern Africa:
- Nguni Stick Fighting: Ancient.
- Ethiopia:
- Megebet: Aksumite Empire, 1st–8th centuries.
- Senegal:
- Lutte Traditionnelle: Pre-colonial era.
- Nigeria:
- Danbe.
Oceania
- Indigenous forms of wrestling and combat practices exist in various island cultures.
This list represents a selection of the many martial arts practiced worldwide, with their origins and histories often complex and evolving over time. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list and the origins of many martial arts styles are complex, spanning multiple regions and time periods
