They also teach discipline, respect, trust and self-confidence.

And arts like Tai Chi help clear the mind as moving meditation.

Most martial arts can be used in self-defense, but it takes years of regular practice to be able to use it effectively.

At the risk of sounding like the tail-end of a "G.I. Joe" cartoon: The best way to keep yourself safe is to stay away from dangerous situations.

It's a good idea to do some research before signing up for martial arts classes.

You can find a wealth of information on various styles on the Internet or at the library.

If you find a class you're interested in taking, drop by to watch.

The Upstate is home to many karate and Tae Kwon Do schools. But it's home to some rare styles of martial arts as well.

We dove in to look at some of the schools that aren't immediately brought to mind when one thinks of martial arts.