What's the Best Martial Art for Me?
- Tim Cooper
- Jan 5, 2021
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 5
I get this question a lot.
“Is karate better than judo?”
“Is jujitsu better than taekwondo?”
“Is aikido better than kung fu?”
My answer is always the same—Every martial art is "best" at something.
Judo and jujitsu are excellent for groundwork and grappling.
Karate and taekwondo focus on striking and form.
Kung fu has rich traditions and varied applications.
Krav Maga is intense and tactical.
Aikido? Aikido is something else.
But best is a relative term. Best . . . for what? Fighting? Fitness? Focus? Spiritual growth?
If a street fight goes to the ground, a jujitsu student may have the upper hand. If someone swings a bat at you, an Aikido practitioner might be better prepared. But what if the ground is covered in broken glass? What if your attacker isn’t alone? What if the fight never comes?
Then what?
The Deeper Question
Martial arts are about preparation. But preparation for what?
If your goal is to become more effective in close-quarters combat, Aikido might not be the fastest route.
But if your goal is personal growth, centered awareness, and a deeper understanding of how to live with intention—even under pressure—then nothing comes close to Aikido.
Aikido is about learning to move through conflict without being defined by it. It’s about responding without reacting. About recognizing the difference between power and control, strength and force.
It’s a martial art that prepares you not just for an attack, but for the rest of your life.
Questions to Ask Yourself
Before committing to any martial art, ask yourself:
Am I looking for . . . A) quick results, or B) a long-term commitment to a path of comprehension?
Do I want . . . A) a coach, or B) a sensei—someone who’s invested in my development?
Do I need . . . A) a workout on my terms, or B) a community that supports and challenges me?
Will I use my training . . . A) in a fight, or B) in the everyday, subtle moments of life?
If you find yourself answering B to any of these, then I encourage you to get in touch.
Ready to Begin?
Aikido Northway is now accepting new members. To start your journey, contact Cooper Sensei and schedule your first visit.
This could be the beginning of something meaningful.
