(2 minute and 2 second read)

“Years of practice and thorough training are necessary for deep understanding and mastery.” – Masaaki Ikemiyagi 9th dan Goju Ryu
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In today’s fast-paced world, people often overlook patience and understanding. This is especially noticeable in the martial arts, where everyone seems in a hurry to become skilled quickly.
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Modern society’s emphasis on immediate results has seeped into various aspects of our lives, and many practitioners are eager to reach advanced levels swiftly, expecting to master techniques and earn belts without fully grasping the underlying principles and with any kind of deeper understanding.
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This rush often leads to a superficial knowledge of the art they practice, happy to just go through the motions of punch, block and kick. This leaves some individuals ill-prepared for the challenges that the martial arts present, especially if they want to become a teacher themselves.
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Your training should place a significant emphasis on patience. It’s through the gradual and deliberate practice of principles and techniques that true proficiency is achieved.
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Patience allows practitioners to develop a profound connection with their art, understanding the nuances and intricacies that contribute to its richness. In a society accustomed to quick fixes, it’s a reminder that excellence is a product of time, dedication, self-disciple and repetition.
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Understanding the art you practice requires a commitment to continuous learning. The journey towards having any kind of proficiency is marked by the consistent exploration of techniques, philosophies, and historical context.
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Teachers who embody a spirit of lifelong learning serve as inspirations to their students, fostering an environment where curiosity and a thirst for knowledge are valued. Without a genuine commitment to a real understanding of the art you practice, without that deeper understanding, you are effectively transmitting just half of the story.
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To teach authentically, instructors must go beyond just punching, kicking, sparring, and performing kata without really trying to understand it.
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Instructors who rush through their own learning process run the risk of sharing incomplete or distorted knowledge with their students. Unfortunately, this is an all too common issue.
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The rush for quick results may be tempting, but true proficiency requires time, dedication, and a genuine commitment to continuous learning.
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To share the core principles of the martial arts with others, instructors need to be role models for a generation that seeks quick success. By doing this, they play a crucial role in cultivating skilled and knowledgeable practitioners, and we certainly need more of that.
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The path to mastery is not paved with shortcuts. It is a winding, uphill climb, demanding commitment, humility, and an unwavering spirit.
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Remember, the martial arts are not about instant gratification. They are a journey of self-discovery. When you commit to this journey, not only do you become a better practitioner, but you also become better versions of yourselves.
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So, embrace the slow burn, be patient, and let the martial arts guide you towards the true meaning of mastery – a mastery of self.
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Photo Credit: With thanks to Masaaki Ikemiyagi 9th dan Goju Ryu
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