Karate is a martial art that originated in the Ryukyu Islands (modern day Okinawa) in the 17th century.

The word "karate" literally means "empty hand".

You'll usually wear loose-fitting clothing and perform barefoot.

You'll also need to wear a white uniform called a "dogi" or "gi".

You should set aside at least one hour per week for practicing outside of class.

It generally takes four to five years to get a black belt if you train consistently.

The four major karate styles are Shotokan, Wado-ryu, Shito-ryu, and Goju-ryu.

Some karate programs are designed for primary school age children and above.

However, some schools offer a "Try Out" for students younger than 7 years old.

Judo is an Olympic sport that involves grappling and throwing techniques, and is more like wrestling with a jacket than other martial arts.

It's known as "the gentle way" and emphasizes free-form practice over repetitive routines.

In Olympic judo, there are no punches or kicks, and you can't touch your opponent's face.

You also can't attack joints other than the elbows.

Judo can help you develop confidence, coordination, balance, and self-defense skills.

It can also improve your aerobic capacity, flexibility, and strength.

You can sign up for a trial class and see if there's space. If there isn't, you can be added to a notification list.

New members with little or no experience may start with orientation classes, then move on to fundamentals classes.

You'll need a judo suit, which can be purchased at the studio.

Jiu-jitsu is a martial art that involves close-contact grappling and ground fighting techniques, and is often used for self-defense.

The word "jiu-jitsu" comes from the Japanese words jū, meaning "gentle", and jutsu, meaning "art".

Most importantly, unlike many other sports and physical activities, jiu jitsu is unique in that it can be done by anyone.

Jiu Jitsu was designed and developed so that a smaller, weaker person can defend his or herself against, or even defeat, a larger and stronger opponent.

Gi jiu-jitsu is grappling with the use of a traditional gi, while no-gi is grappling without the traditional uniform.

A typical class lasts about an hour and a half and includes a short warm up and stretch, followed by 30 to 40 minutes of techniques.

BJJ gyms are typically fun and positive atmospheres.

You should be respectful toward your instructors and training partners, keep your nails trimmed, and avoid wearing jewelry or anything that can get tangled.

Black belts typically take between 8-15 years to earn, training an average of 3-4 times per week.