SUN!
Why do you train in the martial arts?
For a long time Master Rhee would ask me this, in front of the whole class, almost every time I came to Memphis to train. I repeat the question for you; Why?
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7 comments:
1. It is an activity my son and I can do together.
2. For the camaraderie that exists within a group all striving to teach and learn from each other.
3. No endstate exists. There is no ultimate goal or peak to reach, the enjoyment is in the climb.
And the real reason...
4. My wife lets me.
SUN!
Hahaha to Mr. Dragon's #4. The most devastating martial arts technique is the "withering glance" to which there is no defense.
Dittos to his other three, especially #3. It may not be "why" I train but it certainly is a perk. The growth aspect is compelling. Just when you think you have a form or technique solid you discover a certain twist or drop or something that causes you to revisit all the forms to check its validity. Then you train with it to make it 2nd nature. Then you discover something new and it all starts over again.
When I was a colored belt I would hear the black belts say that becoming a black belt is like starting all over at white belt. I thought they were just being trite or referring only to the forms that were ahead of them toward their master rank (and maybe they were). But, I have found it to be true in many ways.
I think, though, that the number one reason I continue to train is to stay sharp and prepared for the big, bad world out there. When the time comes, all of my training might not amount to a hill of beans. The situation might be beyond my control. But, then again......
Master Crane said "Just when you think you have a form or technique solid you discover a certain twist or drop or something that causes you to revisit all the forms to check its validity."
When I started I used to feel bad for the instructor who got stuck reviewing basic forms with me. I figured they came to class hoping to advance their skills only to be stuck reviewing Il Dan again and again. I now find myself assisting with new students and have come to realize that it is just as fun for the instructor due primarily to the "discovery" you mention.
SUN!
In addition to the outstanding reasons noted above that I share, I would also include - To age with Grace.
I'm convinced that by participating in MA, my core strength, flexibility, balance, mind, and spirit will be significantly enhanced and improved for decades to come. Thereby providing for a much higher quality of life during my later/retirement years. I'm only in my 40's but believe in planning ahead.
In fact I once heard that Martial Arts is what enabled an 80 year old widower to keeps up with his 40 year old girl friend - who was named Grace of course.
Sun!
Yes, MA will help provide a much higher quality of life compared to say...pushing your neighbor's car out of a ditch and rolling your ankle ;-)
Grace reminds me of two cats I once had, Goodness and Mercy. They followed me everywhere.
SUN!
Mr. Dragon said, "No endstate exists. There is no ultimate goal or peak to reach, the enjoyment is in the climb."
One of my favorite sayings is, "The path is the goal." I keep it above my desk at work. I do enjoy the climb.
SUN!
I wish that I had some unique and insightful answer, but, my personal reasons are pretty much the same as what everybody posted here.
Who wouldn't want to share an exciting and interesting healthy activity with their family and friends? Who wouldn't want to keep improving physically as they age? Who wouldn't want to go through life with more energy and confidence?
I can say with 100% confidence we are on the right track here guys.
SUN!
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