Martial arts are codified systems and traditions of combat practices, which are practiced for a variety of reasons: as self-defense, military and law enforcement applications; as competition, physical fitness, mental and spiritual development.

Advanced masters are able to manipulate Chi or Qi, which is the bio-electric energy that surrounds all life-forms. Some people have been able to train themselves to enhance their minds and bodies. It can also be used to heal themselves and others.

The people of the hidden nation of K'un-Lun are the most skilled practitioners of martial arts in the world. They developed their own known as K'un-Lun Martial arts They spend a life time training in all forms of earthly combat.^[1] Their best warrior is chosen to take the challenge of Shou-Lao. If successful the warrior will become their champion and gaining the power of the Iron Fist.^[2]

Howard the Duck is a master in the little known martial art called Quak Fu, which he learned at the hands of Master C'haaj,^[3] and hence is a surprisingly formidable opponent in hand-to-hand combat.^[4]

Spider-Man worked with Shang-Chi to create his own martial arts style known as the Way of the Spider, a modified version of his own combat style and Shang-Chi's martial arts. ^[5]