Martial arts as we know it probably did not evolve until systems of offensive and defensive skills were devised in or imported into China. There, these fighting skills were combined with intangible elements such as compassion, discipline and self-control. Martial arts prospered as the only means with which a person could defend himself or herself and his or her family. But even as more civilized times descended upon humanity, the arts survived. The martial arts have transcended their violent origins primarily because they teach much more than fighting. True martial arts stress character development, discipline and respect. Self-defense, physical fitness and competition are some of the other benefits that modern practitioners enjoy.