Since Russia is such a large country, it has come into contact and conflict with many different invaders from all directions. Russian history has had many significant conflicts, such as the Battle of Kulikovo, when the Russians fought against the the Tartars and Mongols (the Golden Horde).

Because of the size and age of Russia, and its conflict-filled past, it has a significant martial history. Russia also has many different ethnic groups, most of which have their own traditional fighting methods.

Because of its long history and proximity to many different cultures, many Russian martial arts (RMAs) have absorbed and combined elements from Chinese martial arts, Japanese martial arts, European martial arts, and even parts of Greco-Roman wrestling. The most famous example is the influence which Sambo has from traditional Judo.

Although there is much cultural influence, there are many notable Russian martial arts (RMA) which are unique, or have elements which are unique. Furthermore, although there are some trends across some Russian martial arts, many of them have evolved in their own individual way.

When the Communists came to power in 1917, many Russian traditions were suppressed, and the teaching and practice of folk styles was banned. However, even during this time many russian martial arts continued to live.

Since the fall of Communism, different Russian fighting styles have re-emerged through training, competition, and media publicity.

See Category:Russian martial arts for the list of topics.

Further Reading

• Russian martial art history