Tanhoa Martial Arts Competition: 1,000+ Young Athletes Battle

by liam.oconnor - Sports Editor

THANH HOA, June 19, 2025

Martial Arts Youth Championship Kicks Off in Thanh Hoa

More than a thousand young athletes are vying for glory.

  • The 26th National Customary Martial Arts Youth Championships began in Thanh Hoa.
  • Over 1,000 athletes and coaches are participating.
  • Competitions include various age groups and martial arts styles.

The 26th National Traditional martial Arts Youth Championships officially commenced in Thanh Hoa,Vietnam,on June 19,2025. The event, a vibrant display of skill and tradition, sees more than 1,000 athletes and coaches from across the nation gathering to compete.

Shining brightly under the stage lights, the opening ceremony in Taingho saw the red flag with yellow stars flutter in the city’s central plaza. This competition,a collaborative effort between the Thanh Hoa Department of Culture,Sports,and Tourism,the Ministry of Sports,and the Vietnamese Traditional Martial Arts Federation,aims to promote cultural exchange and athletic excellence.

More than 1,000 athletes and coaches from 35 cities and cities nationwide attended the opening ceremony of the National Traditional Martial Arts Youth Championships in 2025 at the Tanho Ashram Square. Photo: Antoe

What is the National Traditional Martial Arts Youth Championship? This tournament is a platform for young martial artists across Vietnam to showcase their talents and compete in various traditional martial arts styles, held in Thanh Hoa.

This year’s competition introduces innovations in content and competition, including group martial arts events by age group. Players compete in different age brackets. Competitions include sparring, choice boxing, and regular boxing.

The 12-15 age groups will compete on mats,while the 16-17-year-olds will compete on a ring floor,marking a shift from previous seasons. This adjustment, tailored to physical strength and age, prioritizes safety and organizational expertise.

Did you know?-Traditional Vietnamese martial arts, known as Vo Thuat, encompass a wide range of styles, each with unique techniques and philosophies. These styles frequently enough incorporate weapons training and emphasize both physical and mental discipline.

This year’s event supports the “Everyone exercises along the example of a great uncle ho chi Minh” campaign.The competition hopes to promote Thanh Hoa’s traditional culture and sports values.Tanhoa, a hub of national sports, continues to demonstrate its role as a dynamic and professional venue.

More than 1,000 young martial artists are fiercely competing in Tanhoa -Photo 2
Athletes are competing in group boxing games after the opening ceremony. Photo: Antoan
Reader question:-What aspects of traditional vietnamese martial arts do you find most compelling, and how do you think these traditions can be preserved for future generations? Share your thoughts!

The Organizing Committee aims to evaluate the professional skills of coaches, referees, and sports officials. They are also selecting potential players to join the national team for future competitions.

The first games featured dynamic movements, skill, speed, and strong fighting. The spirit of unity, honesty, and nobility encourages sportsmanship and creates a touching atmosphere honoring Vietnamese martial arts.

The tournament is expected to conclude on June 25, with the final matches promising to be intense and dramatic.

The Evolution of Vietnamese Martial Arts: styles, Techniques, and Preservation

The National conventional Martial Arts Youth Championships are a vibrant showcase of Vietnamese martial arts, or Vo Thuat. The competition highlights the dedication of young athletes and the enduring legacy of these unique fighting styles. The tournament highlights the importance of preserving and promoting this rich cultural tradition in vietnam, where competitions also include sparring, choice boxing, and regular boxing.

But what exactly is Vo Thuat, and how has it evolved? It’s helpful to understand its roots to appreciate its present and future. Today, we look into the traditions, styles and the crucial role of these martial arts in preserving Vietnamese cultural heritage.

young athletes demonstrating traditional martial arts techniques. Photo: Vovinam Federation.

A Tapestry of Styles: Beyond the Basics

Vo Thuat is not merely a singular martial art; instead, it is a diverse umbrella term encompassing many distinct styles. Each style boasts unique characteristics, fighting methods, and philosophical underpinnings. Some of these styles include:

  • Vovinam-Việt Võ Đạo: Known for its dynamic techniques, including throws, locks, and acrobatics.
  • Võ Cổ Truyền: “Traditional Martial Arts” – encompasses a variety of ancient styles.
  • Qwan Ki Do: A style blending Vietnamese and Chinese martial arts techniques.

These are just a few examples; the landscape of Vietnamese martial arts is exceptionally rich, with regional variations and individual schools adding further depth and complexity. The championships in Thanh Hoa provide an excellent chance to witness the diversity of these styles and the dedication of those who practice them.

Vo Thuat is an ancient tradition with a rich history rooted in self-defense, physical conditioning, and spiritual development. These martial arts have evolved over centuries, reflecting influences from various regions and cultures.

The Role of Competition and Training

Events like the National Traditional Martial Arts Youth Championships play a vital role in preserving Vo Thuat. Competitions are not merely about winning; they’re about:

  • Preserving tradition: providing a platform for the next generation to learn and appreciate these styles.
  • Promoting cultural pride: Showcasing Vietnam’s heritage to a wider audience.
  • Fostering discipline: Instilling the values of respect, perseverance, and self-control.

Training, which is essential to excel in Vo Thuat, often involves rigorous physical conditioning, learning specific techniques, and studying the history of the style. It’s a holistic practice, focusing on the mind, body, and spirit, promoting overall well-being.

Preserving the Legacy for Future Generations

Preserving Vietnamese martial arts is essential to maintaining cultural heritage. Several strategies are crucial:

  • Education and awareness: Including Vo Thuat in school programs.
  • Support for training facilities: Providing resources for clubs and competitions.
  • Documentation: Preserving techniques and history digitally and in written form.
  • Community Involvement: Encouraging participation amongst youth and adults alike.

Vo Thuat is more than just fighting; it’s a way of life. From the battlefield to the dojo, these martial arts incorporate elements of ideology, discipline and self-improvement.

by focusing on these avenues, Vietnamese martial arts can continue to thrive, empowering individuals while celebrating this special part of national identity.

FAQs

How old are the traditional Vietnamese martial arts?

vietnamese martial arts have a long history with origins estimated to be several centuries old. Some styles have strong ties to ancient military traditions.

Does Vo Thuat include weapons training?

Yes, many Vo Thuat styles incorporate weapons training, including swords, staffs, and spears. This training adds another level of skill and complexity.

Where can I learn more about Vo Thuat?

Local martial arts clubs and federations are great places to begin. you can also find facts online and at cultural events.

What are the benefits of learning Vo Thuat?

Training in Vo Thuat provides physical fitness, mental discipline, self-defense skills, and a connection to Vietnamese culture and history.

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