I think before any worthwhile accomplishment can be undertaken, we must know why in order to establish clearly defined goals. I have noticed that in the study of martial arts more than any other skill, there is much confusion as to why one wants to learn it in the first place. Basically, there are only 3 reasons why anyone would want to study a martial art.

The Only 3 Reasons For Learning Any Martial Art:

Reason For Learning A Martial Art #1 – Street Self Defense – Originally, martial arts were introduced and became popular after the influx of the kung fu, Bruce Lee martial arts movies. Martial arts were taken for the sole purpose for street self defense, that is, learning how to kick butt with style. The college kid decides. “That’s it! I will never be pushed around again! I am going to learn karate.”

Reason For Learning A Martial Art #2 – Sports Fitness – I once saw a sign outside of a Karate school which said, “Karate Aerobics”. I never went inside to check them out because I don’t think I could have handled it very well if I had gone in, and, instead of gis, had seen everyone doing round house kicks in purple tights and leotards to the music of “Macho Man” by The Village People.

Reason For Learning A Martial Art #3 – Tournament Competition – You want to sign up for a martial arts school because you want to be known as the number one fighter at all of the tournaments given. This is typically for the person, usually in his twenties, who needs to assert his ego and self worth through the collection of trophies.

I am not placing judgement on any of the three reasons, I am only suggesting that you know your reasons, and try not to confuse one with another. Make one of these reasons as your primary goal in order for you to focus and become your best at whatever your reason happens to be.