Which Martial Art Is The Best?

Im often asked the question Which is better, Karate or Taekwondo?; Which is stronger, Judo or Kung Fu?; or more direct questions such as Could you beat a Mixed Martial artist in a fight?

Thanks to the current popularity of the UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship) we are seeing a showcase of different styles being pitted against one another. However my answer to all of these questions has to do with the many different paths that are available in the martial arts, and the one common destination.

Before I elaborate on what that actually means let me first give you a situation. You are standing outside your local shopping mall and you want to get home. How many ways could you do it? Well you would normally drive, either in your car or someone elses but you could also take the bus, ride a bike, walk or even hitchhike. Which way is best?

Of course most of you will tell me to drive. Its quicker, you dont have to pay for a bus, you have control of your trip and you dont have to use much energy. But are any of the other methods any less valid? You still reach your objective, and that is to get home. Granted it takes longer but maybe you learn something along the way...