UPDATE: The poll was not working correctly, so if you answered it on October 18 or before, please answer it again. Thanks!
Please take part in our latest poll in the sidebar. Let us know why you compete in tournaments, or why you would consider competing if you haven't yet done so.
I've listed some of the more common reasons that competitors have given me for their involvement. A number of students, for example, have found that tournament competition helps them set short-term goals (or even long-term goals, if they are point chasing and hoping to place first in the national standings in at least one division). Others find that upcoming tournaments help motivate them to train harder. Some enjoy the healthy competition offered by the USKA circuit. Some students want to support their "team", and help their dojo place well in the national standings. A lot of students just think it is fun to compete!
Some instructors require students to compete in at least a minimum number of tournaments, because it is one of the safest ways to test and improve the ability to perform under pressure --- and this is valuable and necessary for self-defense. Tournament training and competition is also an excellent way to prepare for the kata and sparring portion of an upcoming belt test.
Parents often appreciate how tournament competition has helped their children improve their focus, gain more self-discipline, practice respect and proper etiquette, gain self-confidence, prepare for upcoming belt tests, and become better karateka.
If you are eager to reap the many benefits of tournament competition, please talk to Sensei. The USKA State Championships are going to be held in Riverside on November 3, 2007. Are you ready?
1 comment:
Like the poll idea, but wish I could have voted on the previous one.
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