There are many distinct martial disciplines, though many share a common heritage, originating from the same general areas or collecting and practiced in an organized way by one group or another. Martial Traditions are groupings of disciplines taught by schools, dojos, monasteries, or other organizations, forming a unified body of martial arts.
Each martial tradition grants access to two or more martial disciplines that follow a specific theme related to the history of that tradition. While it is not required to be a member of any particular organization to follow a given tradition, each tradition has an organization which is best known for teaching that particular style of martial arts.
Most martial disciples are required to select a tradition to determine which martial disciplines they can access.
The description of each martial tradition is presented in a standard format. Each category of information is explained and defined below.
Martial Tradition Descriptions
Name
The first line of every martial tradition description gives the name by which the tradition is generally known. This is immediately followed by the name of the organization most known for practicing and teaching the tradition.
Disciplines
This section lists the disciplines granted by a martial tradition. These disciplines represent the unique style of martial arts practiced and taught by this tradition.
A martial disciple who follows this tradition can select techniques from any of the listed disciplines.
Symbol
A description of the symbol used to represent the martial tradition. A symbol worn by a martial disciple often incorporates the name or personal symbol of the master or sect who oversaw their training.
Description
This section briefly explains the background, goals, and purpose of the organization associated with this martial tradition. Each organization has particular requirements for membership and offers a host of benefits for joining, the full details of which can be found on that organization’s full entry. Though no martial discipline is required to join an organization related to their tradition, it is common practice to do so.