Vovinam
Vovinam, also called Việt Võ Đạo, is a Vietnamese martial art combining unarmed striking, throws, grappling, and training with traditional weapons.
Vovinam scissor takedown: A Vovinam technique that uses the legs to entangle and topple an opponent, often by jumping around the target. These signature leg-assisted takedowns show how Vovinam turns acrobatics into throws.
Nguyễn Lộc: A Vietnamese martial artist who founded Vovinam in Hanoi in 1938. He created the system that became Vovinam.
Martial arts: Codified systems of combat training practiced for self-defense, sport, discipline, or cultural tradition. Vovinam is one system within the wider family of martial arts.
Self-defense: Actions and techniques used to protect oneself from physical harm or coercion. Vovinam's unarmed techniques are taught in part for practical personal protection.
Taekwondo: A Korean martial art and Olympic combat sport known for dynamic kicking techniques. Taekwondo is more strongly associated with sport kicking, while Vovinam combines broader combat methods.
Martial arts striking: Fighting methods that use punches, kicks, elbows, knees, or other body parts to hit an opponent. Vovinam's hand and foot attacks belong to the broader practice of striking.
Hanoi: The capital of Vietnam, located in the country's north. Vovinam originated in Hanoi during the period of French colonial rule.
Vietnamese martial arts: Combat traditions developed in Vietnam, encompassing regional schools, weapons, and unarmed methods. Vovinam belongs to a broader Vietnamese martial heritage.
Martial arts competition: Organized contests in which martial artists compete under defined rules and judging criteria. Vovinam has competitive formats that test its techniques and athletic skills.
Karate: A Japanese martial art emphasizing striking techniques such as punches, kicks, and blocks. Karate provides a striking-centered comparison to Vovinam's inclusion of throws and grappling.