Academic Council - International Council of Martial Arts Education and Research (ICMAER)


The International Council of Martial Arts Education and Research (ICMAER), which is proposed to be the World Martial Arts University, serves as an academic institution of the International Association of Combat Sports (IACS). It is also associated with the National Council of Sports Science and Physical Education (NCSPE).

The core mission of ICMAER is to advance martial arts education, research, and the development of quality physical education. The organization also plays an essential role in preserving traditional martial arts, promoting inclusive physical education, and supporting the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030 through the medium of sports.


Vision & Mission

Vision

  • To foster the promotion and recognition of traditional martial arts culture globally.

Mission

  • To Promote Traditional Martial Arts Culture: Emphasizing the preservation of martial arts traditions, techniques, and philosophy.
  • To Promote Martial Arts Education and Research Programs: Focusing on the academic and scientific aspects of martial arts, with research on best practices, history, and evolution.
  • To Promote Martial Arts Scientific Training Programs: Developing cutting-edge, scientifically backed martial arts training methods.
  • To Promote Martial Arts Self-Defense Training and Fitness Programs: Offering courses that teach self-defense, fitness, and personal empowerment.
  • To Publish Martial Arts Books and Other Materials: Creating a repository of literature for martial arts enthusiasts, educators, and students.
  • To Organize National/International Martial Arts Conventions/Conferences/Seminars: Bringing together experts, scholars, and practitioners for knowledge exchange and networking.
  • To Provide Martial Arts Regular, Distance, and Online Training and Education: Making martial arts education accessible to a global audience through multiple learning platforms.
  • To Provide Martial Arts Graduation and Post-Graduation Degrees/Diplomas: Offering accredited educational programs that recognize expertise and knowledge in martial arts.
  • To Affiliate Martial Arts Schools, Academies, and Institutions: Partnering with institutions that promote martial arts training and education on a global scale.

 History of Martial Arts

The history of martial arts spans thousands of years, with deep cultural, social, and historical influences shaping various forms of combat across the globe. Martial arts have evolved not only as methods of combat but also as means of personal development, spirituality, and cultural expression. The story of martial arts is complex, reflecting humanity's inherent need for self-defense, discipline, and skill development.

Early History of Martial Arts

The earliest evidence of martial arts dates back to ancient civilizations, where combat training and combat itself were essential for survival and cultural practices. These early forms of martial arts were often depicted in art and literature, showcasing the importance of battle readiness. Evidence of these early martial arts practices comes from various ancient cultures, including Egypt, Mesopotamia, and China.

·        Egypt: The oldest known depiction of martial combat comes from ancient Egyptian art dating back to 3400 BC, showing scenes of struggle and battle. In the Middle Kingdom (c. 2000 BC), tomb art depicted wrestling techniques, illustrating that unarmed combat training was integral to ancient Egyptian military preparation.

·        Mesopotamia: In 3000 BC, Babylonian reliefs and poetry referenced combat and struggle, highlighting early forms of weaponry and combat tactics.

·        China: In China, martial arts have been practiced for thousands of years. The Yellow Emperor (2698 BC) is often associated with early combat training, with some historical accounts suggesting that he wrote treatises on medicine, astrology, and martial arts. The Spring and Autumn Annals of China also provide references to early martial techniques, including archery and hand-to-hand combat.

Martial Arts in Africa

In Africa, numerous cultures developed their own forms of martial arts that reflected their social structures, warfare practices, and cultural traditions.

·        Egypt: The Beni Hassan fresco from 3400 BC represents organized fighting systems that involved wrestling, callisthenics, and combat with clubs, spears, and other weapons.

·        Nigeria: Gidigbo, a form of wrestling practiced by the Yoruba people, developed alongside other African martial traditions. Other examples include Donga (stick fighting from Ethiopia) and Engolo (a combat system practiced in Angola).

·        South Africa: Musangwe, a form of bare-knuckle boxing practiced by the Venda people, illustrates a longstanding martial tradition in Africa.

Prehistoric Martial Arts

Martial arts origins are often traced back to the prehistoric era, where humans engaged in combat for survival, territorial defense, and social organization. Techniques and weapons evolved based on human anatomy and environmental needs. According to historian David Rudgley, martial arts from regions like China, Japan, and Mongolia have roots in common ancestral people who inhabited northern Asia.

Martial Arts in India

Indian martial arts have a rich and influential history, particularly in the development of martial arts across Southeast Asia. The ancient texts, such as the Dhanurveda (1700–1100 BC), contain references to martial techniques and weapons. These techniques spread through cultural diffusion, particularly with the spread of Buddhism, influencing martial arts in countries like Thailand (Muay Thai), Laos, Cambodia, and the Philippines.

Indian martial arts also heavily influenced the development of other martial systems in Southeast Asia, such as Silat in Malaysia and Indonesia, and Bando and Banshay in Myanmar and Burma.

Martial Arts in China

Chinese martial arts, also known as Kung Fu, can be traced back to the Zhou Dynasty (1122–255 BC). Combat training, including archery, fencing, and wrestling, was common during the Warring States period. Monasteries like the Shaolin Temple became key centers of martial arts training. While many myths surround the origins of Shaolin Kung Fu, it is widely believed that Indian monk Bodhidharma played a significant role in developing martial arts at the Shaolin Temple, promoting physical training to support meditation practices.

Martial Arts in Japan

In Japan, martial arts developed from the warrior class known as the samurai. These combat systems evolved over centuries, blending martial skill with spiritual and philosophical elements. Samurai were trained in various weapons, such as the katana, bow, and spear, and they practiced different styles of unarmed combat. The development of Japanese martial arts, including Jujutsu, Kendo, and Iaido, helped shape Japan's military traditions and continues to influence modern martial arts practices worldwide.

Martial Arts in Korea

Korean martial arts, including Taekkyon and Ssireum, have ancient roots in the country’s military history. These arts were used both for practical combat and as part of cultural festivals and celebrations. During the Joseon Dynasty, the practice of martial arts was organized into structured systems that combined weapon-based combat with unarmed techniques.

Martial Arts in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asia is home to numerous unique martial arts, each with a distinct history shaped by the region’s diverse cultures and foreign influences.

·        Indonesia: Pencak Silat, which traces its origins to the Srivijaya Empire (6th century), is a martial art system that incorporates strikes, joint locks, and grappling. It was refined over centuries and is still practiced throughout Indonesia and Southeast Asia.

·        Philippines: Filipino martial arts, including Eskrima and Arnis, combine techniques from indigenous fighting styles with influences from Spain, China, and other Southeast Asian regions. These arts emphasize weapon combat (particularly sticks, knives, and swords) and empty-hand techniques.

·        Vietnam: Vietnamese martial arts, shaped by historical conflicts, particularly against Chinese influence, evolved unique fighting styles. The influence of Chinese martial arts is evident, but local techniques were also developed to suit the region's needs.

Bodhidharma's Influence on Martial Arts

Bodhidharma, a semi-legendary Buddhist monk from India, is traditionally credited with bringing martial arts to China, particularly through his association with the Shaolin Temple. Bodhidharma is said to have taught the monks of Shaolin physical exercises to improve their health and meditation practice, which led to the development of Shaolin Kung Fu. While much of the story is shrouded in myth, Bodhidharma's legacy is undeniable, influencing martial arts traditions in China, Japan, and beyond.

Conclusion

Martial arts have a long and rich history that reflects the diverse cultures and societies from which they originated. Over time, these arts have evolved not only as systems of self-defense but also as cultural expressions, spiritual practices, and means of personal development. The cross-cultural exchanges of martial arts, from India to China, Korea to Japan, and across Southeast Asia, have created a vast tapestry of styles, each contributing to the global appreciation and practice of martial arts today.