Is it the ability to take down any and all opponents? The frequency of wins at tournaments and competitions? Or a solid theoretical foundation of their selected discipline? While all of these seem like good qualities, they’re not exactly essential to identifying an exceptional martial arts student. If you want to find out what defines the best, read on as we name five of the top qualities of an exceptional martial arts student.
Humility
What’s a good student without some humility? Martial artists are known for their silence and depth – it’s hard to find a good martial artist who keeps flapping his jaws about achievements all the time! A truly exceptional student won’t brag and boast about all the things he or she has done and knows how to let achievements speak for themselves.
Respect
A good martial arts student will know when to accept defeat without having to hate on whoever defeated them. Artists respect artists – each and every student worked hard to get where they are, so whether they’re better than you, or you’re better than them, there is no such thing as comparing. A good student will know to pay due respect to those who deserve it – and put in the work to come out victorious in the rematch.
Balance
As important as martial arts are, they’re not the only thing that should be involved in a student’s life. It’s important to give time and effort to equally important facets of life, including family, school, work, responsibilities, and everything else. A good student knows how to balance the essentials without having to give up time or effort to make room for something else. However, the qualities of discipline, focus, humility, appreciation, and motivation that karate enhances can benefit all of these other areas of life.
Silence
Still waters run deep. Exceptional martial arts students know how to keep themselves quiet when necessary. There is enlightenment and insight in silence and that’s why most martial arts disciplines incorporate meditation and focused thought during practice.
Helpful
Martial arts students understand that their practice and discipline does not aim to inflict harm on others – the target is to defend oneself and help those in need. A good martial arts student should know when they’re skills should be used, and should understand that it should never be used with malice.
Martial arts is a lot more than just movements, strength, and skills. If you’re training in martial arts, then take a look at this list and find out if you’re doing your best to be an exceptional martial arts student.
