Some Reasons people havent started training in martial arts yet!
Violence: Some people think martial arts training equates to engaging in violent behavior. “People aren’t afraid of the unknown, people are afraid of what they think they know about the unknown”!
They may not realize that many martial arts emphasize self-control, discipline, and respect rather than aggression. We as martial artist and combat sports athletes try to get as close to the fight as possible while training.
It’s a matter of mutual respect, I get a chance to practice techniques and tactics using somebody else’s body in exchange, for the knowledge i attain knowing I can do the same thing when somebody actually attacks me.
Find a coach that cultivated an environment that elicits a healthy training vibe!
Danger: There's a perception that martial arts are inherently risky or that participants will frequently get hurt. In reality, most martial arts schools prioritize safety, cleanliness, use protective gear, and focus on controlled techniques to minimize injury.
Yes there are inherent risks to training in anything physical, but the knowledge gained far surpasses most bumps and bruises!
Find a coach that takes the time to know their students day 1 and make sure each new person is of the same mindset as the class atmosphere.
Intimidation: Physical Challenge: Martial arts often involve rigorous physical activity, which can be intimidating to those who feel out of shape or lack confidence in their physical abilities.
When Coaches take a leveled approach to their teaching regime not only is it enjoyable, but you attain greater confidence when you can increase your skill set by building on the strong foundation that was previously constructed. Find a coach that introduces you to the levels of the sport.
Confrontational Aspect: The idea of learning to fight or defend oneself can be intimidating, especially for those who prefer to avoid confrontation or have a fear of physical altercations. Some people just don’t like confrontation. But I tell my students all the time, just cuz you don’t like it doesn’t mean the person that will try to intimidate you will too. Find a coach that will help you navigate the grey area when dealing with social aggression.
Some common stereotypes of training in martial arts and combat sports:
Media Influence: Films and television often depict martial artists as hyper-aggressive or constantly in combat situations. This portrayal can lead people to believe that martial arts training is all about fighting rather than personal development.
Aggression: Stereotypes about martial arts being a tool for aggressive behavior can overshadow the discipline, self-improvement, and community aspects of the practice.
Skill Mastery: The techniques in martial arts can appear complex, leading to concerns about not being able to master them or feeling out of place among more skilled practitioners.
Performance Anxiety: The fear of not meeting expectations, either self-imposed or from others, can deter people from trying martial arts. They might worry about making mistakes or not progressing as quickly as they hoped.
Find a Coach that Addresses these fears and educates potential practitioners about the true nature of martial arts, highlighting the focus on personal growth and safety, and encouraging a supportive environment where learning is valued over immediate success.
If something above speaks to you or reading this wakes up those iron butterflies in your stomach let’s talk about it. Reach out and we can discuss how we can help! :)
