Furry Writers' Guild Forum

Martial Arts. Study up or go with the flow?

General Writing Discussion
#1

Heyo.

So, let’s say I have an idea for a series about anthros practicing martial arts. With the knowledge that what I depict will most likely never hold a candle to the real deal, should I study up on the topic as much as possible or just go the flow? Some the fighting styles depicted will be both based on real styles like Bajiquan, and some others will be entirely made up like “Swimming Dragon.”

I’ll be the first to admit that the only slightest idea I have of how Bajiquan works comes from Virtua Fighter. As for fictional, I’m thinking about a character using something like a yo-yo type of weapon and using it like Scorpion’s spear, which I believe even then is based on something true.

What’s the best approach?

#2

I would do some research, personally.

As someone who’s written plenty of stuff involving, primarily, wrestling, boxing, and kickboxing, I had to do my fair share of looking up different moves, techniques, etc. to stay accurate. Of course, there’s also making sure any action and reaction is realistic and physically possible.

I’m not at all familiar with a ton of martial arts (I’ve never even heard of Bajiquan), but I’d still look up what the general philosophy and style regardless. I’m also not familiar with martial arts that use weapons but, again, research is your best bet.

Also actually practicing a martial art or combat sport helps too; you get a real feel for how the body moves and all its little intricacies. I’ve done a couple years of training boxing and kickboxing off/on and, trust me, it helps.