Anarax
Master Black Belt
Over the years I have witnessed an interesting concept both the trained and untrained believe. The concept is based around the idea that showing up for practice is the only thing required to improve martial prowess. This isn't directed to the differently abled, but more towards those that don't wish to put the work in for various reasons.
Simply knowing techniques is one thing, puling them off in combat is entirely different. Knowing stances, punches, kicks, etc, doesn't make you a martial artist. Attending class after class and drilling the same things with intent is what makes you a martial artist. Practicing techniques until they're embedded into your muscles is what I think some forget. "You fight how you train" is a quote that helps with this misconception. Flailing your arms, sitting in a high horse stance, only doing that which is comfortable is one thing that is hurting martial arts in general today.
The most common group I've witnessed this with is children. Some parents believe enrolling their kids into a martial arts class is all they need to do for their child/children to learn to defend themselves. I can understand this misconception, especially considering a lot of parents who enroll their kids are untrained themselves. Though some people like to downplay younger students not taking their training seriously, in the end who is it really hurting? Parents, do you take an active role in your child's academics? Then why not with their martial arts training? This doesn't mean you must enroll in the same class as them. It means speak to the instructor, ask them what your child needs to work on, encourage your child to improve.
Some adults share this mindset as well. I've seen this mindset in both new and mid-ranked students. One of my instructors has said "you're only cheating yourself", when he sees people putting in minimal effort into their training. Complacency plays a big role in this as well. especially with those with a rank mentality. Those who are more concerned about memorizing new techniques than drilling the ones they already know miss the big picture sometimes.
In summary, as martial artists we shouldn't treat training as such a routine and mundane task.
Simply knowing techniques is one thing, puling them off in combat is entirely different. Knowing stances, punches, kicks, etc, doesn't make you a martial artist. Attending class after class and drilling the same things with intent is what makes you a martial artist. Practicing techniques until they're embedded into your muscles is what I think some forget. "You fight how you train" is a quote that helps with this misconception. Flailing your arms, sitting in a high horse stance, only doing that which is comfortable is one thing that is hurting martial arts in general today.
The most common group I've witnessed this with is children. Some parents believe enrolling their kids into a martial arts class is all they need to do for their child/children to learn to defend themselves. I can understand this misconception, especially considering a lot of parents who enroll their kids are untrained themselves. Though some people like to downplay younger students not taking their training seriously, in the end who is it really hurting? Parents, do you take an active role in your child's academics? Then why not with their martial arts training? This doesn't mean you must enroll in the same class as them. It means speak to the instructor, ask them what your child needs to work on, encourage your child to improve.
Some adults share this mindset as well. I've seen this mindset in both new and mid-ranked students. One of my instructors has said "you're only cheating yourself", when he sees people putting in minimal effort into their training. Complacency plays a big role in this as well. especially with those with a rank mentality. Those who are more concerned about memorizing new techniques than drilling the ones they already know miss the big picture sometimes.
In summary, as martial artists we shouldn't treat training as such a routine and mundane task.