Friday, June 19, 2009

Ideals of the Martial Arts

I want to define some ideals in the martial arts. A quality martial arts program provides practitioners with five parts. Basics, Form, Self Defense, Sparring and Character. Each part plays a purposeful role. The "Basics" define the stances, blocks, strikes, kicks and steps of the art. Forms define the combining of the basics, the correct posture for strength and execution of movement. Self Defense technique develops the knowledge base related to application of the basics in defensive application. Sparring develops the spontaneous response between recognition and action. Character is the by-product of dedication to training in the martial arts. Character becomes a reflection of the practitioners inner person. Facing the challenges of training, dedication, learning, overcoming both physical and mental tasks all build confidence, self esteem, respect and honor. I am tired of reading un-professional comments posted on the Internet that have no constructive value relative to the martial arts. When I read someones comments who is just typing profanity and less than boastful comments remember this - they have no ideals, no respect for themselves or others and very little if any character.

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