The responsibility of the martial arts

Many students do not realize, especially as they begin their martial arts training, that what they are learning brings with it a great deal of responsibility. With knowledge and skill comes increased responsibility, most specifically in five areas:

1. The responsibility of being defensive, not offensive. In our dojo, we have the following rule: "The skills and techniques you learn in class should never be used for harm. Use them only as a last resort in self-defense or in the defense of others. Any use outside the dojo must be reported to Sensei immediately." When a martial arts instructor teaches you, he or she is trusting you to use the techniques responsibly.

2. The responsibility of conflict resolution. Being able to defend yourself physically does not require you to do so. Fights are, if possible, best avoided. At the same time as you are training physically, you should also be training in patience, confidence, and other character qualities that will help you avoid altercations and resolve issues peacefully whenever possible. Fighting should be a last resort.

3. The responsibility of respect. The martial arts have a long, rich tradition of respect---respect towards instructors, towards those of higher rank, and towards fellow students. The basis of much of this respect is the recognition that skill and knowledge in the martial arts deserves respect, as does authority. Without an attitude of respect, a martial artist can never be a true warrior.

4. The responsibility of humility. Knowledge and skill should never puff someone up. The true martial artist recognizes how much he still has to learn, and is humbled. Without humility and respect, we are in danger of becoming little more than trained thugs.

5. The responsibility of setting a good example. As we progress up through the ranks, it is important for us to realize that we are role models for those coming up after us, whether we want that responsibility or not. We are also responsible, towards the public, of being a positive example of what it means to be a martial artist and, more specifically, a Keichu warrior.

[Adapted from a a sample newsletter copyright 2003 by the Martial Arts Management Network]