Tricking in Martial Arts: The Evolution of Acrobatics, Style, and Controversy
Tricking is a dynamic and high-energy performance art that blends martial arts kicks with flips, twists, and other acrobatic movements. While it captivates crowds and impresses judges in modern competitions, tricking is also a subject of controversy among traditional martial arts communities. Some view it as a natural evolution of martial expression, while others believe it dilutes the discipline and purpose of classical training. This article explores the origins of tricking, its relationship with martial arts, its rise in competitive formats, and the ongoing debate it sparks in dojos worldwide.
The Origin of Tricking
Tricking began to take form in the late 1990s and early 2000s as martial artists, gymnasts, and breakdancers began combining their techniques into a new, visually stunning style. It gained traction through martial arts demonstrations, movie stunt work, and online platforms like YouTube, where early pioneers showcased high-flying kicks and creative combos that defied the limits of traditional movement.
Athletes like Mike Chat, founder of XMA (Extreme Martial Arts), helped popularize tricking by introducing it to a younger generation eager for excitement and performance. As martial arts schools began adopting demo teams and performance-based programs, tricking quickly evolved from a niche interest into a full-blown movement.
Traditional Instructors vs. Tricking: A Cultural Clash
While tricking has garnered a loyal following among youth and competitors, it hasn’t been embraced by everyone. Many traditional martial arts instructors express concern that tricking shifts the focus away from core martial values like discipline, self-defense, and structured technique.
Some argue that tricking promotes flash over function and creates an unrealistic image of martial arts. For instance, a 720 kick or cartwheel twist might impress on stage but has little practical application in real-world self-defense or traditional sparring scenarios. These instructors worry that tricking diminishes the depth, cultural integrity, and purpose of martial arts.
However, supporters of tricking argue that it enhances creativity, improves body awareness, and inspires a new generation to explore martial arts with enthusiasm. They point out that tricking does not replace traditional training but adds an artistic and athletic layer for those interested in performance and competition.
Tricking in Competition: Categories and Events
Today, tricking has carved a space in various martial arts and movement-based competitions. It is most often seen in:
- Extreme Forms or Creative Forms divisions at martial arts tournaments
- Tricking Battles held independently or as part of large tricking gatherings (aka “sessions”)
- XMA and ISKA World Championships featuring musical forms and performance-based routines
- Online tricking contests, where athletes submit clips of their best combos for scoring
Common competition categories include:
- Weapons + Tricking: Combining flips with Bo staff, Nunchaku, or Sword movements.
- Open Forms: Emphasizing style, speed, acrobatics, and personal creativity.
- Synchronized Tricking: Team-based tricking routines for showmanship.
- Battle Rounds: One-on-one trick-offs where athletes are judged on difficulty, execution, and originality.
Scoring usually evaluates factors like:
- Degree of difficulty
- Execution/cleanliness
- Creativity and transitions
- Flow and landing control
Unlike traditional kata or forms competitions, tricking is not based on martial application but on entertainment, athleticism, and innovation.
Martial Arts That Influence Tricking
Tricking draws its foundation from a mix of martial arts and movement disciplines, including:
- Taekwondo: Known for its high, spinning, and jump kicks.
- Wushu: Chinese martial arts that emphasize fluidity, agility, and acrobatics.
- Capoeira: A Brazilian martial art that incorporates rhythmic, dance-like movements and aerial kicks.
- Karate: Especially in forms competitions, where practitioners adapt techniques for showmanship.
- Gymnastics and Breakdancing: While not martial arts, these disciplines influence tricking’s aesthetics and flips.
The combination of these arts forms the backbone of modern tricking, making it a hybrid discipline that celebrates both traditional kicks and modern flips.
The Future of Tricking in Martial Arts
As martial arts evolve, tricking continues to rise in popularity, especially among younger students who value expression and creativity. Some dojos are now offering dedicated tricking classes, while others integrate basic tricking elements into advanced curriculum or demonstration teams.
For martial artists aiming to compete, perform, or break into film and stunt work, tricking is becoming an essential skill. It opens doors in entertainment, live shows, and international tournaments, showing that martial arts can be both an art and a spectacle.
Still, balance is key. Tricking should not replace foundational martial arts training but rather complement it. By honoring tradition while embracing evolution, martial artists can preserve the values of the past while inspiring the vision of the future.
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