The martial arts are codified systems of combat practices that are practiced for reasons like self-defense, competition, physical and mental development. Martial arts can be categorized as either traditional styles tied to a culture or founder-developed modern styles. They are generally divided into armed systems that train with weapons, and unarmed systems that focus on techniques like punching, kicking, and grappling without weapons. Practicing martial arts provides health benefits like improved fitness, stress relief, and toned muscles, especially in the legs, buttocks, and back. While competition can prove superiority, the true goals of martial arts are personal improvement, a perfect balance of body and mind, and looking inside oneself.