Martial arts is an individual sport. When you participate or compete, you’re on your own. But at the same time, each individual that trains in martial arts is working toward a common goal – to get better every day.
So while it’s true that it’s an individual sport, it’s one that brings people together. Here are a few elements of martial arts that bring people together:
1. Continuous Learning
The common goal that most martial arts students work toward is continuous learning. Students who stick with martial arts consistently know that it is a lifelong journey. And they’re always looking for ways to grow. Sometimes that means training with someone better, other times it means training with someone with less experience. But the goal is always to find ways to learn from someone else.
2. All Levels Welcome
Martial arts is for anyone willing to give it a try. You can start at almost any age and any level of fitness. If you’re new and feeling intimidated to get started, know that you’ll find a respectful and welcoming group looking to train, learn, and improve alongside others.
3. Shared Accountability
While it’s important to hold yourself accountable for being consistent with your training, training with others adds shared accountability to your routine. When you train consistently, you get to know your training partners pretty well. They become your team in this individual sport. And they will notice if you don’t show up to class. That accountability goes both ways. If you see that one of your teammates hasn’t shown up regularly, you might be able to encourage them to get back on track.
4. Community Support
Becoming part of the martial arts community makes you feel like you’re part of a team – a much larger team than you might realize. The people and support make the mats a place where you can learn and grow, surrounded by a community working toward a similar purpose.
The Way Family Dojo in Magnolia offers a variety of martial arts programs for kids, as well as adults. To learn more about what we’re currently offering, contact us today.