Although martial arts are an individual sport for the most part, there is still an element of teamwork that must also be mastered in order to be the best martial artist possible. Individuals who participate in martial arts training set their own goals, achieve them, and are accountable to themselves for doing so. However, there is a significant level of teamwork in martial arts that builds character and develops thriving athletes. Martial arts training includes practicing with partners, participating in events and tournaments, and places students with others focused on common goals.
Sparring and Partner Work in Martial Arts Training
As students continue to participate in quality martial arts training programs, like those offered at SwiftKick, they will grow and begin to spar and practice with other students. It is essential that students understand certain rules of engagement before doing this, and it is always at the discretion of the instructor to determine when students are ready. Instructors’ first priority, especially with young students, is safety.
One-on-one partnering has immense value in martial arts training for individuals but stems from the foundation of teamwork and having good teammates. Students trust their partners, which is a significant part of being a good teammate. Good judgment during practice, cooperating, listening to instructions, and staying focused and on task without goofing off are critical to successful partner training. Distracted teammates can result in injury, so being a good teammate means paying attention and understanding that the practice strikes and kicks can cause another teammate harm. If a student is displaying behaviors that disrupt the class, the students collectively can guide the student by holding them accountable – this is the definition of a good teammate!
Participating in Events and Tournaments
One of the best things about martial arts training is the special events and tournaments in which students can participate. Whether a board-breaking ceremony, belt testing, or a large-scale tournament, all these events are pivotal in a student’s journey and have a significant teammate element to them. In any event, good teammates encourage and pay attention when their fellow martial artist is performing or competing. There is nothing more disrespectful than when other students are talking and distracting others when someone else is under the spotlight. A good teammate will remind another student that they need to pay attention and not chatter in these moments. If you are thinking right now that your child would never approach another student about their behavior, you may be surprised. Martial arts training is known to build confidence and has transformed students into standing up for what is right!
Upholding Training Standards Outside the Studio
SwiftKick is considered the most comprehensive martial arts training program for young people in North San Diego County. Owner Brian Cowell has designed training programs that build character and help students become the best version of themselves inside the studio and out. When fellow students see each other at school or in different settings, they are held accountable by their teammates. The behaviors and rules that apply in the studio are expected to be continued outside the studio. There are few things more powerful than a fellow teammate pulling you aside to remind you of the high standards of martial arts training. In being good teammates, events and tournaments can continue and become great learning and character-building enhancements for future students.
Teammates Have Common Goals
Many flock to martial arts because there is no minimum physical requirement, and students set their own pace when it comes to setting and meeting personal goals. Some young people struggle with the competitive teammate mentality of organized sports. Martial arts continue to be an incredibly successful solution for students who want to be active but are not comfortable in large groups and have high-performance expectations.
Students in martial arts classes share common goals. Although those goals are individual, all students are working towards their next belt or milestone in training. A solid and thoughtful martial arts program alleviates the unnecessary pressure of keeping up with other students but also motivates students to reach goals that are similar to what others have achieved or are striving to achieve. Teammates support each other, celebrating achievements and efforts throughout training. Good teammates in martial arts are there when you need them and become your studio family. Encouraging others builds morale and brings positivity to the entire class.
Although martial arts training is an individual sport, there is a significant element of teamwork in well-designed programs. SwiftKick Martial Arts is invested in every student, their goals, and how they support each other in the studio and out. Find a quality martial arts training program for the young person in your life today. Contact SwiftKick Studios for a free trial class, and visit the new Bressi Ranch studio today!