Martial arts are not only an effective physical fitness option but are also rooted in tradition, rich culture, and profound philosophy. Included within the many martial arts disciplines are the focus, respect, and the ability to defend oneself. To become a master of a martial arts style, those choosing this path must continue and persevere through obstacles and challenges both physically and mentally.
Many students pause or stop attending regular training for whatever reason, but those who persevere this enriching practice ultimately experience self-realization, which is not found in other athletics. Due to both the mental and physical necessity in martial arts, success requires both to work synonymously. Success in life requires consistency, commitment, resiliency, and drive. Some people say things have been handed to them or that things come easier for some than others. Even if there is truth to this, strong discipline and passion are the keys to achieving your goals in any area of life.
In any sport, coaches and trainers will encourage athletes to push past their physical limits, going beyond what their mind is telling them they are capable of. A coach’s role is to help push athletes to excellence throughout the training, doing things they never thought could. Why is it that someone encouraging us (or yelling at us to keep going as they count down the timer) can make us do more than possible the day before? An instructor or coach’s role is to push, but without self-discipline and passion, success is limited.
Discipline is Fundamental in Martial Arts Success
Experts and masters consider discipline the fundamental of success in martial arts. At SwiftKick, even in the free trial class, those new to martial arts training experience what values are expected and measured at the dojo. The process of moving up in rank through skill mastery is explained along with expected characteristics. In these beginning stages of training, there is a significant opportunity to set short-term personal goals and longer-term aspirations.
Respect and strict training are natural results of discipline, and martial arts training organically teaches these through design and routine. Self-respect and respect for others are critical to success in martial arts and life. Careers, families, relationships, and friendships require respect for healthy and sustainable success.
At SwiftKick, all the instructors are also experiencing life. Some are young adults, some in college, some with families, and some with grown children of their own. SwiftKick sees value in martial arts and self-defense training for as long as you can stick to it. The longer the plan, the more personal goals are met. Martial arts training continues to change lives and serve as an incredible tool in the studio and life.
Passion is Key to Success in Martial Arts
Passion is another key trait to success in martial arts. The rich history and philosophy of karate and other martial art styles speak volumes to anyone willing to listen. Some are immediately drawn to martial arts through the overall philosophy. Others have personally experienced how martial arts changed their lives for the better, which fires their passion. Once passion is discovered, an exciting journey of growth and mastery begins. Passion moves beyond inconvenience and makes training a high priority because it is the heart and soul driving the desire to succeed.
Passion materializes in different ways. Not everyone passionate about martial arts will win or even compete in national or international tournaments. However, a true passion moves beyond physical ability and commitment. Passion is undeniable and can result in becoming an instructor or becoming involved in the martial arts community in another impactful way. Passion is realizing the impact of the martial arts life and doing what one can to further the legacy and tradition of this well-established practice.
Although physical ability and mastery of skills and techniques are essential for martial arts success, passion is the heart, mind, and soul fired up about possibilities.
The two keys to success in martial arts are discipline and passion. Discipline allows students to push through physical limits and mental challenges, resulting in further achievements than thought possible. Passion is the culmination of the soul, mind, and body dedicated to bringing out the best in oneself and others.
Not Just in The Movies
If you have seen a feel-good movie lately, there was inevitably a character who overcame obstacles and whose passion to achieve something outweighed the talent or privilege of others. A mind is an incredible tool that is underused, and when passion is present, physical abilities are outweighed by the mental determination to succeed.
Some natural athletes seem to do most physical activity without much effort. This is undoubtedly an advantage relating to the physical demands of training, but success in martial arts is more complex. The intrinsic desires separate those who genuinely experience all martial arts has to offer. SwiftKick understands that everyone who begins training will not necessarily stay in martial arts for their lifetime. With this in mind, Brian has designed the programs to ensure anyone participating can yield immediate benefits in goal setting, physical fitness, and focus. No matter why you are considering martial arts training, SwiftKick instructors will welcome you and encourage you throughout your personal journey.