Every individual, at some point in his or her life, has been victimized, exploited, or abused in some form or another. Whether this relates to a child being bullied at school, an adult being singled out at the workplace, or in more serious cases, an individual being mugged on the street, what the common feature of these unfortunate scenarios is the victim’s inability to avoid, escape, or resist. Fear is a powerful weapon, and a liability for those who do not prepare. If one does not take measures to develop himself or herself both mentally and physically, he or she will continue to arrive in situations where he or she is at a disadvantage and risk. Fortunately martial arts training is fun, helpful, and appropriate for all ages, genders, and fitness levels.
NOT ABOUT VIOLENCE
Watching a Bruce Lee movie may inspire you to become a martial artist, but the truth is that flashy combat is not what martial arts is mainly about. Do not think you can participate in martial arts training in order to intimidate or bully your way through life. You may learn to have “presence,” but you will also learn humility, self-control, and respect. At its very essence, martial arts is training for improvement of the body, mind, and spirit. The combative aspects of martial arts, while important, are only executed in self-defense as a last resort. While martial arts will certainly teach you various techniques and strategies that will help you in a physical confrontation, the main lesson that it aims to teach is learning when not to fight. A real martial artist is able to discern whether a conflict can be resolved without violence or physical self- defense is required.
VALUES OF MARTIAL ARTS
Integrating the actual spirit of martial arts training into oneself can only come with practice. Initially you may view this kind of training simply as a means by which you can protect yourself on the streets or from bullies at school. However, martial arts teaches individuals much more than that. Through this kind of training, your character itself will be positively affected. Martial arts training helps individuals build focus, endurance, confidence, and most of all respect for self and others.
The greatest victory is always found in resolving a conflict without using any violence. While it is certainly true that certain cases may call for combat, this must always be viewed as a last resort. If you are looking to stand up to someone, martial arts will teach you to do so in an assertive yet respectful manner.