Most historians believe that the martial arts originated from an Indian Zen Buddhist monk Bodhidharma (448-529 AD), who wanted to teach his student better focus through physical exercise. These movements, similar to Yoga-postures, evolved into means of self-defense. Since Buddhism originated in India, it is thought that it may have originated in India.

Searching for the origin of the martial arts one ought not forget about the boxing in Egypt in c. 4000 BC., the martial arts of Babylonia in 3000 BC., the wrestling and stick-fighting in Egypt in c. 2500 BC., the wars of Abraham in c. 2000 BC., the boxing art in the Chou Dynasty, China in 1122 BC, the fighting arts in Greece in c. 648 BC., the martial arts of Rome in 400 BC., the martial arts in Korea in 108 BC., as well as Kshatriya in India in pre-Christian times. Also the spear and stick arts of other warrior civilizations in the Americas and Africa need also be mentioned.

In ancient times martial arts were often practiced for ascetic (i.e. spiritual) goals. In modern times it's frequently practiced for health and fitness, sport, recreation, a means to self-discipline, aesthetic ideals, and/or self-defense.