The California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) legalized Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in Dec. 2005, broadening the styles practiced in Calif. and helping it into the mainstream spotlight of sports. Martial Arts has roots in many different countries with various forms stemming from the diverse cultures of the world. People train in Martial Arts for many various reasons, be it self-defense, physical fitness, motivation, or just as a hobby.

CSAC’s goal is to “foster a safe and sound environment in which boxing, kickboxing, and martial arts can thrive.” More people are starting to explore different types of Martial Arts due to the California State Athletic Commission’s (CSAC) legalization of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) in Dec. 2005. MMA is a mixture of the different styles and techniques of the various disciplines. In an MMA match punching, kicking, and wrestling techniques (grappling) are permitted, though head butting and biting are among the things you cannot do.

The lesser-known underground arts such as Muay Thai, and Jiu Jitsu can serve as a basis for MMA. For example, Muay Thai’s efficient use of every part of one’s body (even knees and elbows) are excellent for striking in MMA and Jiu Jitsu’s technical grappling can be useful if thrown down on the mat. Other forms of martial arts like Tae Kwon Do and Karate may be used, but Muay Thai’s effective striking and Jiu Jitsu’s grappling tend to be more popular.

With the MMA legalization, the Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC) and Pride Fighting Championships, which are programs that showcase matches, have more viewers tuning in to Spike TV to watch their favorite fighters. New younger fighters who can show off their skills are also emerging, and beginning to climb up the ladder to become the best. Though some claim the UFC and Pride competitions are merely men savagely beating each other, others argue that it is a sport just like football or basketball.

“I thought [the legalization] was great, people think it’s too violent, but I see it as a true test of strength,” former student Nelson Li said.

At Abraham Lincoln High School there is a stable of former and current students who enjoy Martial Arts whose disciplines range from Karate, Muay Thai, Kung Fu and Tae Kwon Do.

“I like Muay Thai because of its striking, you can use your knees, fists, elbows, and feet, you’ve got to be on your toes all the time,” Li said.

While some of us take our experience into actual fights and tournaments, many learn Martial Arts mainly for self-defense. “It’s nice to know a couple of moves for those times when you really need them,” senior Chris Wan said.

The martial art’s main use isn’t solely confined to self-defense. However whern it’s used, it should be used to better the person.