As a practitioner of any martial art there should be a willingness to excel. In order for your given art to be accepted by the general public a spirit of excellence has to be seen by others. The reason martial arts became so huge and exploded in this country in the 70's and 80's was because of a man named Bruce Lee who epitomized excellence in his art.
I have seen many people start learning martial arts and quit or halfheartedly apply themselves.
This can prove to be dangerous. Especially if you are looking at martial arts as a means of self defense.
When confronted with the opportunity to defend yourself from attack, the attacker will always be 100% committed to his endeavor. If you are not 100% committed to defending yourself, both physically and mentally, you will lose.
My martial arts instructor told me when I first began martial arts training that in order for me to defeat someone on the street, I will have to first defeat myself in the dojo.
In the streets there are no belts, there are no referees, there is no point system, there are no rules. There is only victory or defeat.
It would be nice if right prevailed all the time but that is not the case.
Physical and mental fitness is what makes the difference in real world situations. Confidence in your own ability is what seperates winners from losers.
Confidence is only built through commitment and dedication.
To win in a street confrontation takes physical and mental strength and fitness above and beyond average levels.
Most people who workout would never survive a life or death situation in the street. Their physical strength and endurance is nowhere near a level that will guaranty victory. That is why soldiers are sent through strenuous combat training. They have to be in a physical and mental condition that will get them through a combat situation.
During a street attack there is a good chance you will be subjected to physical pain that most people have never experienced. You will come in contact with an individual who has no regard whatsoever for you or your family.
The avaerage gym workout I have witnessed won't even get you past a serious verbal confrontation, let alone an all out life or death struggle.
Martial Arts. Committment, confidence, a way of life.
Be the best you can possibly be and odds are you will never have to use it for anything other than your own personal enjoyment and fitness.
Elliott W. Woodards
