How this taxonomy is built
Every style page is generated from a classified dataset, not scraped prose. This page explains the data, the classification, and the honesty rules.
Who’s behind this site
Types of Martial Arts is an independent reference site operated by VentureCorp, Inc. We don't rank styles, sell instruction, or claim any art is 'most effective'.
Where our data comes from
| Data | Source | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| Style entities, names, origins, lineage | Wikidata (CC0) | The factual base for every style |
| Type classification (striking/grappling/weapons/hybrid) & training focus | Our own editorial classification layer | The four-family taxonomy and per-style focus lines |
| Wikipedia links | URL references only — no article text is copied | Optional further-reading links on style pages |
How we calculate
The taxonomy covers 234 styles; 154 carry standalone pages and 80 minor sub-styles are presented as sections on their parent style's page (their old URLs redirect to the right section). Blank-field honesty: when the open data records no origin country for a style, the page simply omits origin — we never guess or invent. The same applies to lineage and focus fields.
Independence & how we make money
Gear links may be affiliate links; if you buy through one we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Gear modules are generic per family (gloves, gi, mats) and never influence how a style is classified or described.
Keeping it current
The taxonomy is near-static; we re-run the open-data pulls quarterly, diff, and review candidate additions editorially. Last reviewed June 2026.
Corrections
Spot an error? Tell us and we’ll fix it. Contact us →