It's true that many martial arts originated in the Far East and were steeped in Buddhism or other non-Christian religions. It's also true, however, that martial arts can be — and are, especially in the U.S. — considered a science, sport or art in which Eastern mysticism plays no role at all or is replaced. There are even a number of Christian martial arts associations!

A few important points to remember are:

• Not all martial arts came from China or Japan. Boxing is an American and European sport. Canne de Combat and Savate originated in France; Escrima and Kakalaau are Filipino and Hawaiian, respectively. Krav Maga was invented in Israel. Other "eclectic" martial arts, such as Freestyle Kickboxing or Bushidokan, were developed in the States.

• Even those arts that originated in the East have been relentlessly modified in the West. If you want to wander around in yellow robes with a blind kung fu master who calls you Grasshopper and utters profundities, you can. But you don't have to.

• Don't be alarmed by exercises or practices that superficially resemble religious practices. After we pray in Universal Kempo, for instance, we sit back and close our eyes for a moment in a posture that looks something like Eastern meditation. But we're simply clearing our minds and preparing to focus on the upcoming workout. Breathing or stretching exercises, combative forms and other things you see might look like yoga or other questionable practices, yet be completely innocuous. When in doubt, ask.

As mentioned above, karate, kung fu and most other styles are available with or without any spiritual component, or even at Christian clubs and schools. Prayerful smart shopping can help you find what you're looking for.

If you're checking out a school or style, tell the instructors your concerns and ask if they teach any religion or philosophy along with martial arts. Chances are they've been asked the same questions many times before, and they'll be glad to discuss it with you.

— Greg Hartman