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Many movies portray martial artists as huge men with rippling biceps and ferocious attitudes. Some are seen performing superhuman feats, while others are forced to perform physical torture and impossible tasks in order to train with a martial arts master. So, how much of this is really true? With so many mixed messages nowadays, it is important to know the difference between martial fact and fiction. The following are the top ten misconceptions made about the martial arts, along with the martial reality to help you gain a more accurate perspective of this practice.
10
Taking
martial arts will make me adopt a religion I don't want to.
Although many martial art philosophies were influenced by ancient religions,
your martial arts school is not meant to be your house of worship. Spirituality
and philosophy are not mysterious, magical, or mythical in the martial
arts. On the contrary, they are generally intended to guide you towards
happier, more balanced living by focusing on mental and physical self-improvement.
Some martial arts schools choose to offer a strong spiritual, meditative,
or philosophical component in their curriculum, others do not. Almost
all schools offer short periods of meditation at the beginning and end
of class to help students concentrate and relax.
9
It
will take forever before I can defend myself.
The length of time it takes to develop the ability to defend oneself
varies with student. It depends on the student's willingness to learn
and their style of dealing with confrontation. Basic self-defense skills
can be acquired in months, but truly acquiring the capability to defend
oneself requires complex psychological and physical reflexes and abilities.
8
Martial
arts students have a high risk of injury.
Statistics have show that the martial arts do not pose a greater threat
than any other physical activity. At the same time, it is important
to train at schools that are conscious of student personal well being
and offer constant supervision during practice to make sure students
have worn the correct protective gear and are adequately prepared to
participate in sparring or drills.
7
I
have to be physically fit before enrolling in martial arts.
This simply is not true. Most instructors will consider your age and
fitness level to help you develop a specific martial arts program. If
you have concerns about your health condition or have not participated
in physical activity for long periods of time, it is best to consult
your doctor before engaging in any form of exercise.
6
I
can't practice martial arts if I am pregnant, injured, or have physical
limitations.
It depends. Many women practice while they are pregnant and health authorities
believe that exercise can actually make a pregnant woman healthier.
Several students who have been injured or have limitations have also
practiced martial arts successfully; in some cases, martial arts training
has helped students recover from their injuries and improve their conditions.
It is most important that you find an instructor who can modify and
individualize your program of study to your needs. As always, contact
your health care provider if you have any concerns about your health
or experience any problems before or during your study.
5
Females
can't practice martial arts.
Entirely untrue! The martial arts started as a males-only practice,
but many females are highly-ranked instructors and directors at schools
nowadays. Many parents also encourage their daughters to participate
in martial arts because of the physical and mental benefits combined
with self-defense skills. The alarming rate of violent crimes committed
against women and girls makes it even more imperative that they practice
martial arts and develop their safety. Be sure to select a school where
there is a mix of male and female students and instructors.
4
I
have to be subservient to everyone.
Although it is tradition in most martial arts schools for students and
teachers to bow, this does not represent subservience. Instead, the
bow is a greeting and sign of mutual respect; students bow to their
teachers and each other, and teachers bow to students.
3
There
is one martial art better than the rest.
There is no "superior" martial art - every martial arts system
has something to offer you. It is most important to find a martial art,
school, and instructor that address your personal preferences, needs,
and goals. To learn more about choosing and starting martial arts, please
go to the Learn section.
2
I'm too old/young to take martial arts.
People can benefit from martial arts study at any age. Most schools
with experienced instructors offer programs for young children, teenagers,
adults, and even the elderly. And many low-impact martial arts provide
excellent exercise for older adults.
1
Martial
arts training makes students more violent.
Contrary to popular belief, martial arts training generally has the
opposite effect on students, producing less violent individuals. Young
children and teenagers particularly learn self-respect and respect for
others, which in turn discourage negative or violent social behavior
and emphasize self-control. Because martial arts help students release
their stress and negative feelings in a constructive environment, they
learn how to use their energy properly and seek cooperation over conflict.
Like challenges? Take the Learn Quiz.
