essay of importance of martial arts

Why Is It Important to Learn Martial Arts?

If you haven’t tried out any martial art yet, you might be curious about what draws people to it. After all, martial arts have been popular literally for centuries. But most people who practice will never actually get in a fight. So, why is it important to learn martial arts?

Here’s what I’ve learned from decades of practice:

Learning martial arts is important because not only do practitioners learn invaluable self-defense skills, but it also boosts confidence, builds resilience and focus, and improves strength, flexibility, coordination, and awareness.

But, the benefits are a lot more than that.

In fact, learning 1 or more martial arts is one of the “secret” weapons of most successful people. I have been involved in martial arts on and off all my life and seriously for the past seven years. In this article, I’ll share a few vital benefits including the 1 that’s more important than any of the above.

Let the fun begin…

Some Martial Arts photography by the beach at sunset pic.twitter.com/Ym8oCUjb02 — Random Pics (@RandomBestof) October 23, 2018

What are the benefits of martial arts?

The benefits of martial arts are so many, but here are the most important ones:

• Increased confidence
• Better health
• Self-defense skills
• Increased resilience to work through challenges
• Improved focus

But let’s explore a few of those in greater detail.

INCREASED CONFIDENCE

Training to be a martial artist requires being devoted and disciplined at practicing certain techniques and habits over the course of years. And this is done in a social context. So, at the same time, the martial artist is learning how to work effectively with others in a spirit of harmony.

The regular practice of martial arts elicits a sense of accomplishing something of great value in the practitioners, and that increases their self-confidence. This is carried over into other domains. Being a martial artist increases the odds that you’d be successful in other pursuits. In addition to being confident, you’re also learning how to focus better and how to be resilient.

BETTER HEALTH

Martial arts are physically demanding. A lot of energy is consumed at each training session. In Muay Thai, for example, about 1000 calories are burned for an hour of training. Martial arts are a great way to keep fit. You’ll become more flexible and stronger.

Did you know that Karate could help you lose weight?

Find out how in a recent article of mine. While I don’t think weight loss should be any martial artist’s #1 goal, it actually does a great job and it’s a little surprising how quickly you can drop the weight.

Just click the link to read it on my site.

In an effort to perform at their best, the practitioner also eats better and gives up habits such as smoking and excessive drinking. Because they know the stronger their bodies are, the greater the chance they’d be able to excel in the arts.

Meditation is also encouraged or practiced in many martial arts, and this helps you to focus better and to have better self-control. So, it’s easier for you to make better health choices.

SELF-DEFENSE SKILLS

One could argue that this is the most vital benefit — the one most people think of when they think of martial arts. And, it makes sense because having martial arts skills could be what could save one’s life or that of loved ones.

For example, there are spots in the human body that a trained martial artist can target to easily incapacitate their attacker if they are in danger.

There are also ways they could hold the assailant that would have the same effect. So, it’s really smart to have these skills. Even if one lives in a relatively safe city, it’s still advisable to be able to defend oneself.

We never know when bad people can surprise us!

Photo by KICKPICS Professional Martial Arts Photography pic.twitter.com/Fh9Cf5QtJi — Wolf Martial Arts (@martialartswolf) June 18, 2020

Why do we need to learn self-defense?

You need to learn self-defense skills because it’s better to have the skills and not have to use them than to find yourself in a situation where you need them and don’t have them.

“Self-defense is not just a set of techniques; it’s a state of mind, and it begins with the belief that you are worth defending.” – Rorion Gracie

In an ideal world, there’d be no bullies and criminals. Everybody would only do what makes others happy and safe. It’s sad, but the world is not like that, right?

Truth be told, there are bad people who enjoy inflicting pain on others, even when you’re simply minding your own business. There are those who like to hurt others.

You have so many wonderful experiences ahead of you.

The last thing you need is for a bully/criminal to hurt you so bad you have to go through the rest of your life with scars or disabled. Yours is a precious life you must learn to protect. If you become skilled in self-defense, you may also be in a situation where you get to protect somebody you love.

Even if you may never face a dangerous situation, it’s always smart to be proactive.

Even if you never have to use them, learning the skills encourages you to adopt healthier lifestyles that’ll help you become fit and help you have better focus.

Martial arts are a full package. In addition to being able to defend yourself, you’ll also learn how to control your emotions, improve your situational awareness, and stay calm under pressure. Those skills help most martial artists avoid the fight before it even begins.

Have you ever wondered which is better for self-defense, BJJ OR Judo?

I shared the answer in a recent article of mine. Both are great, and Judo is actually an offshoot of Jiu-Jitsu. But I clearly think one is better than the other for self-defense.

Martial arts photography get in touch @Michaelpage247 @CroydonKickbox #kickboxing #martialarts pic.twitter.com/bZ30m7GE — Rachel Raphael (@rachel_raphael) September 26, 2012

Do martial arts make you violent?

Martial arts do not cause someone to be more violent than they were before training. In fact, the most accomplished martial artists in the world are rarely, if ever, in a real fight. The skills they’ve learned would certainly prepare them if they were, but those same skills also help them avoid danger, to begin with.

Being disciplined comes with the territory.

Martial arts are actually a way of being in the world. They’re not essentially about fighting. They are a way of refining oneself. That’s to say, a way of making one a better human being. And, you’ll agree that being violent is not a part of being a better human being.

Some martial arts were developed in the monastery and for a long time were known only to monks, who, you’ll agree, are highly peaceful and disciplined people. So, it won’t make you violent.

In fact, there are martial arts, such as Aikido, that could even make someone who is prone to violence more peaceful. In fact, living in peace and harmony and avoiding injury to others are key parts of the Aikido philosophy .

In a recent article of mine, I wrote an in-depth guide on its philosophy, including the 1 really surprising way an Aikido practitioner could trounce an opponent.

Just click that link to read it on my site.

Martial arts photography #taekwondo #martialarts #cheer #dance pic.twitter.com/ehwpK9bPeH — SMA DESIGN STUDIOS (@smadesignstudio) June 18, 2015

Which martial arts is best for discipline?

A traditional Japanese art such as Karate probably provides the greatest discipline in its teachings. Students are required to address the Sensei not unlike a cadet addressing a Drill Sergeant. And students are expected to practice endlessly without complaining.

But, the truth is that it’s difficult to say which martial art is best for discipline. But honestly consistently practicing anything, and not giving up when it gets challenging will build self-discipline.

Most martial arts require doing the same set of things over and over, at the same time, and in a particular manner. If you pick any martial art and follow what the instructors say, you’ll invariably become a more disciplined person.

You’ll probably reach a point where you’ll start practicing the techniques on your own.

Martial arts foster a spirit of perpetual improvement and devotion. They foster a habit of committing to doing something for a long time. This will naturally make you more disciplined.

If you’ve ever wondered what might be the best martial art for teenage girls , I’ve got you covered in a recent article of mine.

In it, I suggested that Krav Maga and Jiu-jitsu are two of the best martial arts for teenage girls because it helps boost their self-confidence, increase strength, flexibility, and awareness, and trains them to defend themselves against attackers who may be bigger or stronger than they are.

And, amongst other issues, I looked at the question of whether martial arts could make females overly aggressive . Just click the link to read it on my site.

Photography of Martial Arts by a Martial Artist .. #martialarts #karate #photography pic.twitter.com/HPX8HoVplj — Paul Ives MA FBIPP (@PaulIvesPhoto) January 11, 2017

What are the negative effects of martial arts?

The biggest downsides to practicing martial arts are accidental injuries. Even practicing safely, on padded mats and with the expert supervision of a Sensei, most long-term martial artists will occasionally injure themselves. Usually, the injuries are minor and do not require medical assistance.

But all dojos have probably had a broken bone or two if they’ve been open any length of time.

For myself, I’ve sustained the following, relatively minor injuries over the past 20 years:

• A bruised rib (doing Judo)
• Sprained ankles (doing BJJ)
• A minor tear in my rotator cuff (doing BJJ)

Luckily, none of my injuries required me to go to a hospital or doctor. Usually, over the counter braces work great for ankles or wrists, and arnica gel is your friend. For the rotator cuff, I did see a chiropractor and acupuncturist.

Having said all that, I’m still here and ready for the next class!

Aside from injuries, martial art training can be a tad expensive. After all, most will involve a registration fee, uniform costs, sparring gear, and a monthly tuition that’s likely at least $100. Multiply that over a period of years, and it’s not cheap.

It is, however, well worth it.

In the preceding paragraphs, we looked at the benefits of martial arts .

Specifically, we looked at whether it makes one violent and the best one if one wants to be disciplined. There are numerous benefits, mental, physical, and even spiritual. It doesn’t promote aggression.

In fact, the opposite is the case. And we wrapped things up by looking at their negative effects.

Jeff Campbell

Jeff Campbell was Academy Director for a large martial arts school for over 7 years, and has trained extensively in a variety of martial arts including Brazilian Jiujitsu, different styles of Karate, the Russian Martial Art of Systema, Aikido, and much more. Click Here to learn more about me. Click Here to learn more about my site. Editorial Policies.

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15 Benefits of Martial Arts

There are so many different martial arts from all around the world that it’s difficult to even talk about them on a general level.

Certainly, they can be grouped, analyzed, and systematized in different ways, but the fact is that martial arts are generally very complex and very diversified.

I’ve talked about a lot of them on the site – in more or less detail – but this article will be a little different. Why?

I am going to talk about the general benefits of martial arts and why you should start practicing one so stick with me to find out more!

1. Martial Arts Are for Everyone

One of the best things about martial arts is that it’s very broad and includes a lot of techniques, which means that anyone can find something that fits them.

Martial arts encompass so many different disciplines, styles, and approaches, which means that you’ll certainly find something that suits your interests and preferences.

lso, because of this width, they can be practiced by practically anyone.

So, whether you’re a man, woman, young, old, or whether you’re a manual laborer or hold a Ph.D. – you can find something in martial arts that suits you.

It’s also good because you can adapt your training according to your preferences and it doesn’t matter at what age you start with martial art s, because it’s never too late to do it. 

2. Martial Arts Are Effective and Realistic

Martial arts are diversified, but they don’t usually have such essential differences, at least in the fighting aspect of the training.

But, unlike some disciplines and even combat sports, martial arts are more realistic and can prepare you for more real-life situations.

You probably won’t, for example, enter into a real-life situation where you’ll use your karate skills in the same way you use them during practice, but, the other hand, martial arts are so diverse that they will surely, at one point or another, imitate a real-life situation better than the most thing that comes to mind at one point.

Since it prepares you for a real-life situation, it is certainly more effective than some other similar disciplines. 

3. Martial Arts Training Can Serve as a Full-Body Workout

Martial arts are not just a good fighting preparation, they are also great for a workout.

Since a lot of martial arts disciplines use specific training techniques that activate your whole body, it’s only logical that martial arts provide an excellent full-body workout for you.

They will activate and engage every part of your body – from head to toe – and will burn up to 1,000 calories per one-hour session for you (depending on the art)!

Be sure to check out my article about building muscle and losing weight with martial arts where you can learn more about it.

4. Doing Martial Arts Is Dynamic and Fun

Martial arts training can be a good replacement for fitness training, but they are usually so much more.

Fitness can be boring and monotonous, even if you do it in a group. The exercises are usually the same and after a while – it all becomes a routine.

In martial arts, you’ll achieve the same results, but with a much more dynamic approach that will stimulate not just your body, but also your mind.

Martial arts are so much more than regular fitness that it can be described as a completely new level of fitness training, an upgraded version with which you’ll have to do more, but also achieve more in less time. 

5. Martial Arts Help with Self-Defense

One of the latest significant studies about aggravated assaults states that the number of assaults is dropping (14% decrease from 2005 to 2014). [ 1 ]

But, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t know how to defend yourself if that situation arises.

Although self-defense is – directly or indirectly – a part of a vast majority of combat sports and martial arts, the latter usually offers a more precise, complete, and focused approach to self-defense than the former (with some exceptions).

Due to the fact that martial arts rely heavily on a complete combat philosophy, they will teach you a lot of different defensive (and offensive) techniques, which means that you can learn a variety of different self-defense techniques by training martial arts.

If you relate this aspect to the one mentioned in point 2, you will quickly deduce that the realism of martial arts is an excellent addition to the self-defense techniques you’ll certainly want to learn, because – it’s better to be safe than sorry. 

If you are interested, check out my article where I ranked best martial arts for self-defense .

6. Doing Martial Arts Is Good for Strength

Due to the fact that martial arts are both demanding and physically straining, you’ll have to be quite strong to successfully follow all the training sessions.

But not all people start doing martial arts fully prepared and bulked like Anthony Joshua. No, most people start off slowly and then work until they reach the desired level.

Martial arts are good because they enable you to work and upgrade your strength in a relatively short period of time.

So, if you want to become strong quickly, martial arts are definitely something you should try. 

7. Doing Martial Arts Helps with Conditioning

This part is closely related to the one before. Namely, strength and conditioning usually come in pairs and if you work on one, you’ll automatically increase the other.

Conditioning is important if you want to follow martial arts training sessions and become better and just like with strength, martial arts will allow you to work on that part quickly.

You’ll still have to put a lot of effort and dedication if you want to achieve something quickly, but just imagine the satisfaction when you finally get to where you wanted to be when you started!

8. Martial Arts Training Increases Competitiveness

Although you don’t have to become a professional fighter, martial arts will certainly try to increase your competitive spirit and if you allow it to do so, it will succeed.

Martial arts are very competitive and that kind of spirit doesn’t come just with professional fighting.

It comes from the beginning, from the starting point of a martial arts career – the training arena.

So, whether you want it or not, martial arts will train you to want to be better, to actually be better.

Of course, it’s up to you how you’re going to use that competitive spirit – you can become a pro or just a recreational sportsman – but your competitive spirit will certainly increase and you can easily translate that into other fields. 

9. Martial Arts Teaches Respect

Although martial arts are usually perceived as aggressive, brutal, and vulgar, with a lot of trash-talking, it actually teaches you how to respect your opponent and the rules of the game, which is especially typical for most Oriental martial arts.

To be frank, this is a thing all combat sports and, as I’ve said, martial arts especially, but even if it doesn’t look like it – martial arts will certainly teach you respect.

Respect is very important in martial arts. You have to respect your coach, your opponent, your rules and you will never become a good and well-respected fighter until you give the necessary respect to others. 

10. Martial Arts Teaches Problem Solving

Interestingly enough, martial arts can be just as effective as chess in some specific aspects. Or to be more precise, regular exercising can improve memory and thinking skills. [ 2 ]

They won’t stimulate your brain the same way as chess, but martial arts are a very unpredictable discipline that requires concentration and constant mental activity.

You have to watch out for your opponent, you have to apply an adequate tactical approach and you have to know how to get out of a tight spot.

Certainly, your physical predispositions are more important, but brute force won’t get you very far if you’re fighting an intelligent opponent who knows how to play to his strengths and to your weaknesses. 

11. Martial Arts Help You Build Confidence

Building on point 8, it has to be said that martial arts will also increase your confidence.

Confidence usually comes from self-satisfaction and by elevating your stamina, your physique, and your boldness, martial arts will raise your confidence to new levels.

After seeing what you can do in the ring and during training sessions, you will use the newly found energy in all other aspects of your life, so it’s not surprising that martial arts have their psychological benefits as well. 

12. With Martial Arts You Will Learn New Skills

Martial arts will teach you something new.

Even if you’re not a complete “noob” when it comes to combat sports and martial arts, the complexity and diversity of martial arts will always allow you to learn something new, no matter what, because it offers a lot when technique and combat are concerned.

This is also a psychological benefit of martial arts, but it can be related to several aforementioned points.

So, if you want to broaden your horizons and learn something new, martial arts will certainly give you enough material to do exactly that, so don’t hesitate and use it to your advantage. 

13. You Will Socialise More

Although you probably won’t start doing martial arts to find new friends, it’s one of those benefits that comes with the programme, whether you want it or not.

Although the fights are one-on-one, training sessions don’t have to be; plus, you’ll always meet new people in the gym.

So, with everything going on, you’ll learn how to be a part of a larger, new group of people who share the same interest and passions as you do, and that is always a good thing. 

14. Martial Arts Help You with Stress

You know those rooms full of stuff and furniture, where you can pay to go and smash stuff? It’s a very efficient form of stress relief, albeit a tad destructive.

Well, martial arts work in a similar way. Namely, the punches, the kicks, and the “aggression” of martial arts are actually a great form of stress relief and it’s certain you’ll benefit from it. 

15. You Never Know…

You might not become Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, Ip Man, or some other martial arts legend, but – you just might?

Martial arts careers are often unpredictable and it is the underdogs who surprisingly succeed on many occasions.

You never know – you might just be one of them so it would be a shame if you missed your chance!

Now that you know how beneficial martial arts are, check out which martial art you should choose to start with.

Vladimir Vladisavljevic

Importance Of Martial Arts

For many people, martial arts is an integral part of life. People practice martial arts as a sport, a hobby, an artistic expression or a regimen for physical, mental and emotional well-being. Skills learned in the study of martial arts can be applied in other aspects and relationships in life.

Self-Defense

Majority of those signing up for martial arts have personal safety as their main reason for training. Violence is a reality that is faced by everyone and martial arts training provides necessary skills to increase chances of survival. Students learn and practice risk avoidance and fighting skills that they can apply should their safety be at risk.

Self-confidence

Fear and lack of knowledge and skill contribute largely to poor self confidence. Martial arts training provides tools that enable people to learn and apply skills that help them realize not only what they are capable of but also gives them a sense of pride from knowing what they have accomplished. Fear is reduced from knowing there are skills to draw upon when attacked. As students progress to new levels, challenges are met with less apprehsion and with more drive to perservere and succeed.

Overall Health

Physical, mental and emotional well-being are the other major reasons why people sign up for martial arts training. Consistent training not only conditions the mind and body to have strength and stamina to fight back in a violent situation but also helps the body fight disease, stay flexible, strong and active as people age. Martial arts provides stress relief and ways to release pent up energy. Together with a healthy diet martial arts training gives people a well rounded regimen that they can do anytime and anywhere. People take control of their well being by being mindful of and making adjustments to things that they know could affect them.

Martial arts in itself is a community. While martial arts was first used by people to secretly train together to fight against oppressors, today’s martial arts has become a community with an even bigger purpose. It’s where people meet and share with others their passions. It’s where you find people of all ages and from all walks of life to learn from and pass on knowledge. It’s where people train hard, celebrate the wins and happy moments and comfort in times of trouble and loss. It is where people can improve themselves and where they can be of service to others.

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“Santa Clara Kenpo Academy” is an independent Kenpo School. It is not affiliated, associated, authorized, endorsed by, or in any way connected to International Kenpo Karate Association (“IKKA”), KAM IV, Inc., any of KAM IV’s subsidiaries or affiliates. COVID protocols in place.

• Positive Psychology

Positive Psychology in Martial Arts

Martial arts provides a strong basis for living through positive psychology..

Posted December 30, 2017 | Reviewed by Gary Drevitch

• What Is Positive Psychology?
• Find a therapist near me

I have had several jobs and careers as a physician, researcher, scientist, psychology professor, life coach, hypnotherapist, artist, and personal trainer. But first and foremost, I am a martial artist.

My Personal Experience with Martial Arts

At 9 years old, I began to study martial arts. Bruce Lee was my hero. The physical challenges, the strength, flexibility, and excitement over being able to kick above my head and break boards with my hands was inspiring and motivating. I began in the Japanese arts of Judo, Aikido, Jiu Jitsu and Karate. At twelve years old I started learning Chinese Kung Fu and for my Bar Mitzvah present at 13, my parents signed me up for lessons in the Korean arts of Taekwondo and Hapkido. It became an addiction. Initially going three times a week, I gave up my Hebrew lessons, guitar lessons, and any free time I had, to the point of studying and practicing martial arts 4-5 hours per day, six days per week. It became my goal in life to be a martial arts instructor. As the years went by I continued to add new styles and techniques, such as Thai boxing and Israeli Self-Defense.

In university, I studied psychology as many of the concepts had been previously introduced through my martial arts practice. After medical school and residency, I was able to incorporate lessons learned from martial arts into my careers and integrated positive psychology into a wellness curriculum which I taught to physicians. I have found a tremendous overlap of martial arts with all other important aspects of my life. For example, as an anesthesiologist, I used the Chinese meridians that I learned in martial arts to apply acupuncture; treating various pain symptoms. I have taught martial arts from the time I was in high school throughout my career in medicine. Martial arts not only shaped who I am today, but has been the single most positively influencing factor in my life.

Many of us think of martial arts as something for kids to do as an after-school activity so they focus on discipline, respect, getting good grades, and have an outlet for their ADHD . But it can be so much more if taken seriously and applied properly.

Kids attend classes and learn proper stances, punches, kicks, exercises, stretches and physical techniques. However, these lessons usually have deeper meanings which are important life lessons. When we learn about the importance of balance, the kids are practicing standing on one foot and doing a karate kid move, while I am deliberating on the power of achieving balance in my work and personal life, and balance in my need to give and take.

While there are certainly many benefits to participating in other sports and activities like soccer, gymnastics, and tennis, few can come close to the physical, psychological, emotional and spiritual health and wellness benefits that may be derived from serious martial arts practice. Below are some benefits of martial arts.

1) Responsibility. This is the first habit of Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People and one of the Keys to Achieve success in relationships, business and all aspects of goal-setting . We are each responsible for our thoughts, feelings, actions, inactions and responses. Without taking responsibility you are unable to truly experience positive growth and transformation to a better self.

Martial arts is a pathway to self-actualization. To not take responsibility is to put a wall in the path. We must be able to protect ourselves and those whom we love. We learn that if we don’t take responsibility we may lose the things most dear to us. With this knowledge, we become more aware of the words we use and our non-verbal communication when faced with conflict. We have control over how we respond to others and whether we choose to escalate or de-escalate conflict, whether we choose to avoid or evade a fight, and the extent of force that we use to end a conflict.

2) Discipline. Attaining and practicing self-discipline is a great asset in both our personal and professional lives. Regular practice of martial arts helps us gain the ability to control our emotions, desires and reactions. Martial arts teach us to think before acting, regulate our movements, and focus on action rather than reaction. The discipline involved in fine tuning and honing skills and techniques cannot be overstated. This ability becomes a way of life and permeates all aspects of our being.

3) Perseverance. People with perseverance are more likely able to accomplish long term goals in the face of adversity. Excelling in martial arts is extremely difficult – it takes thousands of hours of practice and dedication encountering many challenges along the way to developing new skill sets and advancing in belt ranks. Martial artists learn to view challenges as opportunities rather than obstacles; crucial in minimizing unhealthy dis-stress. As Aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba said, “Failure is the key to success; each mistake teaches us something.” It is this kind of attitude which leads to an enduring and striving spirit. Through challenges we may truly grow and by growing we may best face challenges. Martial arts emphasize that it is not how many times you fall down but the number of times that you get up that is the best predictor of success.

4) Values. Establishing goals based on your core values infuses them with deeper meaning and energizes you to pursue them passionately. Values set the course by which goals are established. Living a life based on your values is a foundation for achieving a balanced and satisfying life. Bringing life to your values will bring value to your life! Inherent in martial arts are a certain set of core values – respect for others, harmony, balance, spirituality , self-determination, self-protection, and service for others. These common belief systems help establish firm bonds between fellow martial artists and allow us to thrive in other non-martial art related activities throughout our lives.

5) Positivity. A focus on positivity and optimism is associated with many health and wellness benefits including less depression , less substance abuse , greater long-term happiness , better and more relationships, improved career success, improved immunity, and living a longer life. Martial arts instill many foundational principles of positive psychology such as a focus on personal strengths, flow, positive/productive communication, optimism, resilience and celebrating successes. We must each look within to get an honest and realistic assessment of our personal strengths and find the best martial art fit. When we are deeply engrossed in martial arts we find flow – the sense of purpose and timelessness like being in the zone. Marital artists must be able to find the glass half full as we turn challenges into opportunities. We celebrate our successes such as achieving higher belt levels, hall of fame inductions and community service awards, without being overly proud.

6) Humility. Society is embattled with the consequences of more ego, self-centeredness and entitlements. Being humble is associated with more effective leadership , more self-control , improved work and academic performance, less prejudicial behavior, more kindness and enhanced relationships. Martial arts help us appreciate our strengths yet be honest and objective about our limitations, weaknesses, and areas which need improvement. Even the most successful, most famous, and most accomplished martial artists are amazing examples of what it means to show humility.

7) Confidence. A lack of self-confidence has devastating consequences for children and adults leading to avoiding social interactions, inappropriate fears, poor relationships, poor job performance, depression, and substance abuse. With poor self-esteem, you are more likely to give up on goals in the face of adversity. Marital arts excel at promoting self-confidence and self-esteem in its practitioners. By teaching respect for others, including your opponents while instilling the importance of individual responsibility, martial arts promotes balance between humility and confidence. There are endless opportunities for achieving goals and developing self-confidence.

8) Respect. Having respect for others improves all of your relationships. Respect begets respect. Showing respect and appreciation of others encourages them to respect you and increases the likelihood of having others be kind to you. Respect includes friends, foes, and strangers. Employees report that the single most important trait that a leader can possess is that of respect for their workers. In martial arts not only do we respect our teachers, mentors and those wearing a higher belt, but we also learn quickly to respect our opponents. This trait is important to not get cocky and make dangerous assumptions about their abilities.

9) Goal Setting. Setting goals provides direction in life, helps clarify your personal mission and decision-making . It gives you a defined focus on what is truly important and allows more control of your future journey; helping you anticipate and prepare for future challenges. Setting goals is motivating and inspiring. As described in my domino theory of goal-setting , there are many dominos on the road to becoming an accomplished martial artist. Your goal may involve earning a higher level belt, achieving a black belt, beating your personal best for number of strength exercises or stretching further than you’ve ever stretched before. The number and variety of goals are endless and the drive, motivation and sense of accomplishment achieved in martial arts is awe-inspiring and can easily be applied to all other aspects of your life.

10) Flexibility. Maintaining physical flexibility is important for many reasons including increased blood circulation and energy levels. Greater muscular coordination, less muscle tension and increased range of movement decreases the chance of injury and back pain. Similarly, being flexible in your thinking reduces the chance of psychological injury in the form of stress, depression, and anger . Martial arts teach us to be strong yet flexible. Set goals yet be amenable to altering your path based on new circumstances and information. Embracing change is necessary for success in the workplace. With the advent of new technologies and changing markets, flexibility drives innovation and creates boundless opportunities. In relationships at home, at work, at school, or at play, we must remain flexible and embrace the dynamics of any situation to fully appreciate and benefit from the new consequences which are inevitable. This we learn through martial arts practice.

11) Balance. Balance training improves joint mobility, decreases injuries and falls, improves control over and awareness of one’s body position, enhances overall sport performance, reaction time, strength, power and agility and even enhance cognitive memory abilities. We strive for balance in work and personal life, daily schedules, or psychological balance; not being too bored or too overstimulated, not too carefree or too uptight, not too stingy or too spendthrift, not too trusting or too suspicious, not too daredevil or too fearful, not too cautious or too outgoing, not too introvert or too extrovert . We may become off balance as we strive toward a single focused goal. The ability to recognize this and make necessary adjustments are important. Marital arts focus on the physical aspects of balance training but also the mental, psychological and spiritual aspects. If you are physically too focused on pushing forward, one has but to deflect your energy and step sideways to help you lose your balance. Similarly, if you are mentally too focused on pushing forward in an argument, you may not be open to new information, lose respect and injure your status in a relationship.

12) Work ethic. Success takes work; physical work, mental work, preparedness, and often spiritual work. True achievement takes fortitude, action and sweat. Martial arts training forms the foundational base for establishing a healthy work ethic. You could go online and buy a black belt but the initial satisfaction of seeing it hanging on your wall would quickly fade when the realization sets in that this was not earned. I attribute the work ethic I learned through martial arts to my successes in the medical and academic world. Not being satisfied with getting by, we strive for excellence. As Bruce Lee said, “I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times.”

13) Wisdom . We tend to lump all martial arts styles under the umbrella “martial arts.” Martial arts reflect the people, culture, weapons, and specific circumstances of their countries of origin. These differences are reflected in how they emphasize stances, kicks, punches, blocks, and body movements. Becoming an accomplished martial artist requires more than simply learning the physical techniques. One must understand the history, culture, people, and even the language. Mastering a specific martial art necessitates practicing enough to incorporate techniques into muscle memory as well as a deeper understanding about proper body mechanics, kinesthesiology, anatomy and physiology, situational awareness, conflict management, de-escalation techniques and possibly weaponry including materials and manufacturing technology. I have been fortunate in being able to apply knowledge gained through martial arts in my travels to the far east and in building positive productive relationships with people from a variety of cultures. A quote often attributed to Bruce Lee is “Before I learned the art a punch was just a punch and a kick just a kick. After I learned the art, a punch was no longer a punch and a kick no longer a kick. Now that I understand the art, a punch is just a punch and a kick just a kick.” This is the mastery effect; associated with high self-efficacy and enhanced performance.

14) Courage. Acting appropriately in the face of adversity without overconfidence or inappropriate fear. Courage is important for those with families and friends whom they care to protect. It enforces personal boundaries , enhances self-confidence and has the ability to strengthen teamwork . Courage is a trait strongly nurtured by martial arts practice. Even for those with a predilection to be guided by fear, visualizing and undergoing repetitive, stressful , realistic self-defense drills helps one develop the necessary courage to face fears – both physical and psychologic. We learn martial arts not so we can hurt those in front of us but to protect those whom we love standing behind us.

15) Creativity . Creativity relieves stress and promotes overall health and wellness. It improves mood and overall emotional health, enhances brain function, promotes the production of new neurons, and may even help prevent Alzheimer’s. True practice of martial arts goes well beyond planned patterns. Only following such patterns is to take away one’s freedom and falsely lead to the belief that the pattern accurately represents reality. Martial arts promote creativity in one’s approach to novel situations; thinking out of the box and using a dynamic approach to apply and develop new techniques or use old techniques in new ways. This is why so many martial artists exemplify the term “artist”. They are actors, painters, sculptors, dancers, and musicians who are able to apply this creative code to other aspects of life.

16) Leadership . Leaders set direction, create visions, inspire and motivate others, forge teams and create productive organizations. Leadership involves valuing and respecting others and knowing their strengths, thinking out of the box, looking at obstacles as opportunities and taking responsibility for their decisions. Martial arts encourage a leadership frame of mind – a mindset of improving our community and improving the world. It starts with a dream about what could be, visualizing how this will be and taking action to make it happen. Implicit in this framework is the self-confidence, responsibility and belief that one can make a positive difference. The emphasis in martial arts on effective communication, respect for allies and foes, presenting a respectable appearance, striving for self-improvement, showing humility and taking action fosters effective leadership qualities.

17) Open-Mindedness. Being open-minded is only possible if you assume that you don’t have all of the information. This is an essential trait for success in relationships, in business, and in acquiring or advancing in any sport, hobby, or activity. This can be difficult when the new information counters our long-held beliefs. However, the payoff is well worth it as we gain valuable new knowledge, become stronger, more confident and learn to change our mistakes into life lessons for success. The martial arts master pours tea into an already full cup and the tea overflows onto the table and floor. The student says, “what the heck?” The master says, “Like this cup you are so full of ideas that you can’t hold onto anything new. You must first empty your cup to be able to gain new knowledge.” As one of my instructors, Avi Nardia often states, “Sometimes a teacher, always a student.” An effective martial arts practice is dynamic wherein the martial artist must be open to new information to adequately respond with appropriate counters.

18) Mindfulness . An open, nonjudgmental moment-by-moment awareness of your thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations and surrounding environment. A focus on the future is to live in a dream and a focus on the past is to live in a memory. Mindfulness is a focus on the here and now. It is associated with improved health and wellness, lower stress, better decision-making, less errors, an improved immune system, better relationships and greater life satisfaction! It gives us a greater sense of mental clarity and focus. Mindfulness is a key ingredient of martial arts practice. More than just being aware of what is going on; there is an implicit deeper sense of spiritual contemplation and reflection. As Harvard Psychology Professor Ellen Langer has described, mindfulness is the process of actively noticing new things, relinquishing preconceived mindsets and acting on the new observations. As in Buddhism, where mindfulness originated, martial arts helps us focus on our breath to anchor our thoughts. To excel in martial arts one must commit to being fully present in the now. Distractions of past recollections or future predictions may be life threatening.

19) Situational Awareness. Being alert to what is happening around you and understanding how certain situations, physical objects, events, and actions may affect outcomes. Situational awareness involves having a level of emotional and social intelligence to perceive and adequately interpret non-verbal information. A lack of this awareness is a primary contributor to accidents caused by human error. In martial arts it is necessary to be able to incorporate this information analytically with other input to fully assess your situation and avoid placing yourself in dangerous predicaments. The concept of situational awareness can be traced back to Sun Tzu’s The Art of War from the 5th Century BC. Bruce Lee called this “the art of fighting without fighting.” The art of verbal de-escalation, anticipation, and appropriate avoidance; the way of the peaceful warrior. We learn to fight so that we don’t have to.

20) Action. Action separates dreaming from doing; taking an active role in your destiny is one of the keys to success, not leaving your future to the universe and hoping things get better. Action arising out of your principles, energized by visualizing your goals and the path to getting there will be deep-seated, meaningful and inspired. Thinking about changing the world in a positive way is good, talking about it is great, doing it is best! Martial arts is not just a way of being, it is a way of doing. We learn to control our bodily movements with precision as we gain an understanding of how minute movements may have tremendous consequences such as during pressure point application or joint manipulations. We appreciate that in all aspects of life we have a personal responsibility to take inspired action. A Japanese Proverb says, “In the struggle between the stone and water, in time, the water wins.” The stone may seem stronger but it just sits there as the water takes action.

I am hugely and eternally grateful of the opportunities afforded me by virtue of my involvement in the martial arts world. The positive psychology lessons, the health and wellness benefits and the powerful influences of being able to interact with amazing individuals who embody the true spirit of what it means to be a martial artist.

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Neil Farber, M.D., Ph.D., is an adjunct Professor of Psychology at Arizona State University. He is a retired physician, life coach, hypnotherapist, researcher and the author of Throw Away Your Vision Board.

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Martial Arts — Risks And Benefits Of Martial Arts

Risks and Benefits of Martial Arts

• Categories: Martial Arts Taekwondo

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Words: 1228 |

Published: Apr 11, 2022

Words: 1228 | Pages: 3 | 7 min read

Works Cited

• Neyra, D. (2014). The future of mixed martial arts or a detriment to America’s youth? A call to regulate children’s MMA. Journal of Combative Sport, 2(2), 1-12.
• Johnstone, A. (2018). Martial Arts Offers Brain-Boosting Benefits for All Ages. Psychology Today. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/minding-the-body/201804/martial-arts-offers-brain-boosting-benefits-all-ages
• Maloney, L. (2019). What Are the Benefits of Martial Arts for Kids? Livestrong. Retrieved from https://www.livestrong.com/article/146371-what-are-the-benefits-of-martial-arts-for-kids/
• Demorest, R. A., & Koutures, C. G. (2011). Youth participation and injury risk in martial arts. Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine, 21(4), 352-356. doi: 10.1097/JSM.0b013e31821d4e4a
• Pieter, W., & De Martelaer, K. (2014). Injury profiles of young taekwondo, judo and karate athletes. European Journal of Sport Science, 14(Suppl. 1), S130-S136. doi: 10.1080/17461391.2012.740051
• Omiya, M., Yamamoto, Y., & Yamamoto, Y. (2017). Injury rate and type among children and adolescents practicing martial arts. Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, 16(2), 230-236.
• Zetaruk, M. N., Violán, M. A., Zurakowski, D., & Micheli, L. J. (2005). Karate injuries in children and adolescents. Pediatrics, 105(6), e76. doi: 10.1542/peds.105.6.e76
• Gartland, S., & Malik, M. H. (2014). Risk of injury in martial arts: a systematic review. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 48(2), 98-102. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2012-091417
• Balasubramanian, S., & Arumugam, M. (2015). Analysis of martial arts injuries treated in emergency department. International Journal of Scientific Study, 3(3), 108-112. doi: 10.17354/ijss/2015/307
• Cassisi, J. E. (2016). Concussions and head injury in combat sports: a review. Journal of Athletic Training, 51(11), 1036-1042. doi: 10.4085/1062-6050-51.12.02

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How Martial Arts changed my Life

As a Martial Artist, I have had many years to understand Martial Arts. I know how it has benefited me and what I use it for. I have also been an avid observer of others who pursue Martial Arts and have watched them grow, mature, and become better people.

Martial Arts serve a variety of purposes and appeals to many different types of people. Many seek sporting glory through athletic endeavours, while others seek improvement of the self. Victims of crime and bullying joined to learn how to deal with these difficult situations. The ability to fight and overcome an adversary is probably one of the most popular reasons that people pursue Martial Arts. It speaks to our insecurities. That we must overpower our enemies before they overpower us.

 My journey began as a child who wanted to emulate the great Bruce Lee. I wanted to be strong and powerful. I found that there was much more to Martial Arts than I originally thought. I am going to share some insights into how learning Martial skills changed my life with the hope that I can inspire and help you reach for a better version of yourself. 

But before I get into that, I wanted to give you a quick rundown of some of the benefits you can expect by training in a Martial Art.

Improving the Self

What about pursuing Martial Arts as a means to improve the self?  I agree that Martial Arts is useful to defend ourselves and protect others when situations turn violent, but I have also come to realise that in the absence of a foe, an enemy or a sparring partner – I am left to battle myself.  The outward use of Martial Arts is turned inwardly.  I train to battle the physical and mental weaknesses within myself.  After each battle, I should emerge better than I was before. 

Physical Strength

The physical exertion from Martial Arts training improved the overall strength of my body and enabled me to perform regular activities within my day with ease and vigour.  This is especially important as you reach your senior years where your body does degrade. 

Rigorous training in Martial Arts has also proven to increase cardiovascular health which optimises the function of the lungs and heart.  This has really had a positive effect on my ability to recover from the flu and other viral infections.

I also use Martial Arts as a gauge of my fitness, especially during tournaments and when grading for higher ranks. 

“The more I train at home, the better I perform in the dojo.”

~ Martial Devotee

Mental Strength

Placing my body under physical stress and pushing my physical limits has also served to strengthen my mind.  I found that I grossly underestimated my physical limits and that my mind tended to give up well before my body actually would.  This meant that my perceived physical limits and pain response were well under my physical limits.  With regular training, I was able to get closer to my actual physical limits by fortifying my mind and learning to embrace the hardship that I was enduring. 

I learnt that the mind is a powerful force and that can serve me or work against me.  When I regularly pushed through my perceived limits, I found that my mind proved no longer to be an obstacle but rather started to adapt to my training along with my body.

Having a fortified mind has also enabled me to control my emotions effectively.  Although I sometimes do lose my temper because this is a very human trait, I have found greater stability in my emotions and my ability to cope with stress.

My Martial Art has also kept me grounded which has kept me out of trouble.  I have found that there is little time for trouble when I am focused on my training.  I have learnt the value of humility and always keeping an open mind.  I have experienced that there is always more to learn and master.  This has allowed me to learn from those less experienced than me.

The physicality of the training highlights my weaknesses and vulnerabilities which helps me to reject my ego.  When I discard my ego, I create an environment for myself that is free to learn, experience and progress.  Hardship becomes my ally and I am able forge ahead with greater strength than I did before.

Perseverance

Martial Arts training is hard.  It is tough on the mind and body.  It takes time to master the techniques.  You must persevere to keep progressing and improving your Martial Arts skills.

This is yet another lesson I have learnt from my Martial Art.  Nothing can be achieved without hard work and dedication.  The greater the achievement, the greater the effort required.  Effort is not even enough.  Effort must be combined with consistency and deliberate practice. 

This sort of mental grit has helped me in other areas of my life as well and this is one of the positive side effects of learning to persevere through difficulty. 

Connecting the Mind, Body and Spirit

Martial Arts if practiced earnestly and for long enough will enhance the body, mind and Spirit.  Moreover, I have found that I have a better understanding of my physical, emotional and spiritual self.  Due to this enhanced understanding, I am able to combine and align these aspects to improve my happiness and satisfaction.

How Martial Arts Changed My Life

My recollection of myself as a child leaves me a little anxious.  At that stage, my future did not seem very bright and I was seemingly in complete disarray.

As I think back to my formative years, I can’t help but feel sympathy for that child. On the exterior, he was obedient, well-behaved and shy. However, this shell of my former-self lacked self-esteem, confidence and was the target of bullies. He lacked self-awareness and was so wrapped up in fear, that he performed poorly in school. This child had undergone many traumatic events which set him back emotionally and destroyed his ability to function at the same capacity of a child his age.

However, fate would have something else instore for him. His love for Martial Arts and the strength that he longed for propelled him into his deepest fantasies. Fantasies in which he would immerse himself in the pursuit of Martial knowledge and skill. Where he could be strong and in control of his own destiny.

Through intensive Martial Arts training, this wounded soul would be transformed. Indeed, he did become stronger. Not just physically but also in character. He understood his body and no longer felt like the disempowered, overweight, and awkward child he used to be. He moved with confidence but maintained his humility. No longer did others have control over him. He was now capable of standing up for himself and others that felt the brunt of vile and wicked bullies.

He discovered clarity of thought as he had dispelled all the fear that previously gripped him. Now that he spent less time on survival, he possessed more time to flourish and grow.

School had now become a pleasure instead of a chore. His Martial Arts training had gifted him discipline and a laser-like focus with which to absorb what he was taught, and he improved his grades ten-fold.

His Martial Art also taught him important life lessons like perseverance, humility, and respect. Suddenly, all problems were perceived as challenges which was his privilege to surmount. He stayed the course through hardship and difficulty. This was the mindset which was so tightly ingrained during his Martial Arts practice. Most importantly, his training provided him with a physical outlet to heal emotionally and strengthen his Spirit.

As you can see, I owe a great deal to my Martial Art. It is an integral part of who I am. This is how Martial Arts has changed my life and I could not be more grateful.

So the question is, what is the purpose of your Martial Art? How did Martial Arts change your life?

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ORIGINAL RESEARCH article

Motivational drivers and sense of belonging: unpacking the persistence in chinese martial arts practice among international practitioners.

• 1 Faculty of Sports Science, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
• 2 Ningbo Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Ningbo, China

Background: Chinese Martial Arts (CMAs) have garnered a global following, with their rich historical and cultural heritage transcending geographical and cultural differences, sparking profound interest among an international community. As an increasing number of non-Chinese individuals persist in practicing CMAs, investigating the motivations behind their continued participation has emerged as a compelling question. This study aims to delve deeper into the factors driving international practitioners to sustain their practice of CMAs, thereby broadening our understanding of the global resonance of CMAs.

Methods: Employing Self-Determination Theory, 226 international CMAs practitioners completed the Physical Activity and Leisure Motivation Scale, Perceived Belonging Scale, and Persistence in Practicing CMAs Scale. SPSS 20.0 was utilized for conducting descriptive statistics, common method bias tests, and correlation analyses. Structural equation modeling was performed using AMOS 26.0.

Results: Motivation for Practicing CMAs, comprised of enjoyment, mastery, physical condition, psychological condition, and appearance, has a positive impact on Persistence in Practicing CMAs ( β  = 0.297, p  < 0.01). Sense of Belonging also positively affects Persistence in Practicing CMAs ( β  = 0.268, p  < 0.01). The aforementioned variables account for 22.1% of the variance in Persistence in Practicing CMAs. Furthermore, Affiliation, Competition/Ego, and Others’ Expectations were found to have no significant correlation with Persistence in Practicing CMAs.

Conclusion: The formation of persistence in the practice of CMAs among international practitioners is propelled by their ongoing desire for skill mastery, enjoyment, enhanced physical and mental health, body shape improvement, and a Sense of Belonging. The study reveals that a stronger motivation and Sense of Belonging significantly enhance their commitment to CMAs. Recommendations include that international instructors should center their teaching strategies around the practitioners, helping them to find joy in their practice, achieve skill mastery, and foster the development of physical, mental, and aesthetic qualities, alongside virtues and etiquette. Additionally, building a supportive CMAs community and cultivating a sense of ritual are essential. Such strategies are intended to reinforce practitioners’ self-affirmation and group identity, thus boosting their Sense of Belonging and encouraging their continued engagement in CMAs.

1 Introduction

The practice of Chinese Martial Arts (CMAs), with its rich historical and cultural heritage, extends far beyond the borders of China, captivating the interest of international practitioners worldwide ( Farrer and Whalen-Bridge, 2011 ; Lau, 2022 ). Despite the geographical and cultural distances, a growing number of non-Chinese individuals are not only engaging in CMAs but are also showing a remarkable persistence in their practice ( Jennings, 2010 ). This phenomenon raises intriguing questions about the motivational drivers behind their sustained interest they experience within this traditionally Chinese domain.

Martial arts represent a psychophysical cultural form deeply embedded in the traditions of hand-to-hand combat or weaponry, facilitating psychophysical enhancement and self-actualization through the training of fighting techniques ( Cynarski, 2017 ). Recognizing the multifaceted nature of martial arts research, Cynarski (2017) introduced a comprehensive, interdisciplinary theoretical framework known as the General Theory of Fighting Arts (GTFA). This framework synthesizes three distinct perspectives: the Humanistic Theory of Martial Arts (HTMA), the Anthropology Theory of Martial Arts (AMA), and insights from Sports Science. Presently, research on CMAs has evolved across these three perspectives, encompassing cultural and philosophical discussions ( Allen, 2014 ; An and Hong, 2018 ; Cibotaru, 2021 ), pedagogy and dissemination ( Jia et al., 2022 ; Skowron-Markowska, 2022 ; Han et al., 2023 ; Ma and Jiang, 2023 ), as well as the health beneficial effects of CMAs practice ( Gorgy et al., 2008 ; Fong et al., 2017 ; Zhang et al., 2023 ). While numerous studies have delved into why individuals participate in martial arts, findings depict a wide array of motivators shaped by varying disciplines and backgrounds of participants. Significantly, consistent key motivational themes have been identified across different martial arts disciplines. Specifically, Self-Determination Theory (SDT), with its intrinsic and extrinsic motivation categorization as outlined by Deci and Ryan (1985) , offers a solid theoretical foundation for understanding exercise motivation. Morris and Rogers (2004) have organized eight motives under SDT into intrinsic (mastery and enjoyment) and extrinsic categories (the remaining six motives). Furthermore, they grouped the six extrinsic motives into body–mind (physical condition, psychological condition, appearance) and social motives (others’ expectations, affiliation, competition/ego) based on a second-order factor analysis. Mastery, along with the pursuit of physical and psychological health, stands out as pivotal motivators, as evidenced by martial arts practitioners, including those in Tai Chi, Taekwondo, and Karate, prioritizing these for their engagement ( Morris and Han, 1991 ; Morris et al., 1995 ; Chowdhury, 2012 ; Witkowski et al., 2013 ; Molanorouzi et al., 2015 ; Zeng, 2019 ). Additionally, the significance of competition and ego in martial arts contexts has been highlighted, distinguishing participant motivations in their respective disciplines ( Molanorouzi et al., 2015 ). Witkowski et al. (2013) reinforced this by noting judokas often cite winning prestigious competitions as a primary motivation. The search for enjoyment also emerges as a primary reason for young practitioners’ involvement in these disciplines ( Zeng, 2019 ). Despite the initial insights into these motivational factors, the specific drivers that underpin the long-term engagement of practitioners in CMAs remain unclear. This identified gap underlines the imperative for an in-depth examination of the motivations propelling overseas practitioners to maintain their commitment to CMAs over an extended period.

The relationship between motivation and the maintenance of long-term exercise is a significant topic of study in the fields of sports psychology and health promotion. Research has demonstrated that intrinsic motivations, such as enjoyment, are crucial in driving individuals to persist in their exercise routines ( Ryan et al., 1997 ; Jiang and Wu, 2004 ; Chu et al., 2009 ; Zeng et al., 2013 ; Neys et al., 2014 ; Lee, 2018 ; Rodrigues et al., 2020 ). Furthermore, intrinsic motivation related to competence has also been identified as an important factor in exercise adherence ( Ryan et al., 1997 ; Chu et al., 2009 ). However, the relationship between exercise persistence and motivations aimed at health, external appearance improvement, and social interaction presents varied results across different studies. For instance, Jiang and Wu (2004) and Chu et al. (2009) found that motivations related to physical and psychological health impact continuous exercise, while Ryan et al. (1997) observed that exercise adherence was unrelated to health motivations. Additionally, Ryan et al. (1997) associated social interaction with exercise persistence, and Jiang and Wu (2004) linked appearance (shaping the body, or gaining (losing) weight) with exercise adherence, whereas Chu et al. (2009) found no significant relationship between social, appearance motivations, and exercise persistence. Research suggests that different motivations are linked to various types of sports activities ( Frederick and Ryan, 1993 ; Morris et al., 1995 , 1996 ; Ryan et al., 1997 ; Molanorouzi et al., 2015 ), implying that the relationship between participation motivations and exercise adherence may vary across different sports. This study aims to explore the motivational mechanisms behind the persistence of practitioners of CMAs, drawing upon the aforementioned research to propose the following hypothesis (see Figure 1 ).

Figure 1 . Research model. PiPCMA, Persistence in Practicing Chinese Martial Arts.

H1 : Motivation for Practicing CMAs has a positive effect on Persistence in Practicing CMAs.

Incorporating the Self-Determination Theory (SDT), belongingness is identified as a fundamental psychological need, alongside autonomy and competence, that underpins human motivation and well-being ( Deci and Ryan, 2000 ). The Sense of Belonging, or relatedness, is crucial for motivating self-determined behaviors, driving individuals to seek connections and nurture relationships, thereby fostering a sense of unity and mutual care within groups ( Deci and Ryan, 1991 ). This theoretical perspective underscores the relational need for individuals to feel connected and valued within their social contexts. Partiková and Jennings (2018) argue that Kung Fu (referred to in this context as traditional CMAs) as Family – a way of thinking and feeling (and therefore acting) about Kung Fu in terms of family – provides a deep Sense of Belonging for people from a plethora of backgrounds. Kung Fu practitioners find belonging not only in their club but also within a wider group composed of distant cousins, recent seniors, forbearers, and ancestors. Fellow students are seen as siblings, with a responsibility to pass on the art to the next generation and nurture younger or incoming practitioners. Nardini and Scandurra (2021) suggest that practitioners pitted against each other in hand-to-hand clashes actually promote social exchange between opponents, offering them a common framework for collective identification. While these studies, employing qualitative methods, have emphasized the importance of belongingness in martial arts, no research has yet utilized quantitative methods to verify the impact of belongingness on practitioners’ long-term engagement in CMAs. Indeed, research in non-CMAs contexts has already found that group cohesiveness is related to individual adherence behavior ( Carron et al., 1988 ). Additionally, Kopanidis (2023) identified the Sense of Belonging as one of the key factors influencing member retention and active participation. Based on this, the following hypothesis is proposed:

H2 : Sense of Belonging has a positive effect on Persistence in Practicing CMAs.

In conclusion, applying Self-Determination Theory (SDT) to our research offers a valuable theoretical framework for an in-depth analysis of the complex motivations behind the long-term participation of international practitioners in CMAs. SDT’s multifaceted understanding of human motivation, which includes both intrinsic and extrinsic types ( Deci and Ryan, 1985 ), allows us to explore more deeply the various motivations that drive individuals to continue practicing CMAs. Moreover, SDT emphasizes the importance of belongingness, autonomy, and competence ( Deci and Ryan, 2000 ). In an international context, understanding how a Sense of Belonging influences practitioners’ commitment to persisting in CMAs is crucial for promoting the global dissemination of CMAs. Additionally, SDT research shows that when individuals’ behaviors are driven by intrinsic motivations, they are more likely to maintain those behaviors over time ( Ryan et al., 1997 ). This insight is directly applicable to designing strategies to enhance long-term participation in CMAs and improving practitioners’ satisfaction and commitment. By integrating SDT into our study, our goal is not only to reveal the key psychological mechanisms underpinning the enduring commitment of international CMA practitioners but also to provide theoretical and practical insights for fostering sustained engagement in this rich cultural practice.

2 Materials and methods

2.1 participants.

In this study, we initiated data collection by employing Apify’s Google Maps Scraper service to gather information on 16,382 Chinese Martial Arts (CMAs) dojos, from which we identified 11,894 entries with website information. To refine our dataset for quality, we removed duplicates due to some dojos sharing the same website, resulting in 8,929 unique website URLs. We then utilized the Octoparse Web Scraping Tool to extract email addresses from the homepage of these websites, obtaining email addresses from 2,374 websites. A survey questionnaire, created via Google Forms, was distributed to these email addresses through a targeted “BCC” (blind carbon copy) email campaign. Additionally, to enhance our data collection, the survey was shared in various Facebook groups dedicated to Chinese martial arts, such as Chinese Martial Art & Kung-Fu Club, Traditional Chinese Martial Arts Community, among others, with prior consent from group administrators. This multi-faceted approach yielded 229 completed questionnaires from international CMAs practitioners. Following a rigorous screening process for patterned responses, inconsistencies, and duplicates, 226 questionnaires were validated for analysis, marking a valid response rate of 98.6%.

2.1.1 Demographic characteristics

Table 1 presents the demographic characteristics of overseas practitioners of CMAs. The age distribution is mainly among four age groups: under 24 years (17.7%), 25–34 years (25.2%), 35–44 years (26.1%), and 45–54 years (22.1%). The sample is predominantly male (80.1%), with females only accounting for 18.6%. Regarding employment status, 59.3% are employed, 14.2% are self-employed, 15.9% are students, and 5.3% are retired. The level of education is generally high, with 27.4% holding a Bachelor’s degree, 22.6% a Master’s degree, 6.2% a Professional Degree, and 8% having some college credit but no degree, making up a total of 64.2% of the participants having attended university. The study sample includes a wide distribution of countries, predominantly English-speaking ones, such as the United States accounting for 24.3%. The survey being available only in English may influence the participation of non-English-speaking countries, which could also explain the higher level of education among the sample. The sample primarily consists of White individuals (64.6%), followed by Asians (15.0%). Non-Chinese participants account for 88.1%, and Chinese participants for 11.9%. Therefore, the results of this study may better explain the factors influencing the practice of CMAs among non-Chinese overseas. Respondents practicing for more than 10 years account for 41.1%, 6–10 years for 21.7%, 3–5 years for 21.7%, and 2 years or less for 15.5%, indicating that most of the collected samples have been exposed to CMAs for a significant period. 63.7% of the respondents learned CMAs from non-Chinese masters, 30.5% from Chinese masters, and only 5.8% have studied with both Chinese and non-Chinese masters. 64.2% of the respondents have watched CMAs competitions, only 30.5% have participated in CMAs competitions, 25.7% have come to China for CMAs exchanges, and 29.6% have participated in a CMAs tour (such as visiting the Shaolin Temple, Wudang Mountains, etc.).

Table 1 . Demographic characteristics of the study group ( N  = 226).

2.1.2 CMAs content selection

The survey results indicate a broad array of preferences among practitioners for traditional Chinese Martial Arts (CMAs), with certain styles enjoying particular popularity. Notably, more than 30% of respondents favor Wing Chun (35.4%) and Yang-style Tai Chi (33.6%). Styles preferred by over 20% include Qigong (27.9%) and Shaolin Kung Fu (24.8%), while those chosen by over 10% encompass Xing Yi Quan (19.9%), Baguazhang (17.7%), Chen-style Tai Chi (16.4%), Hung Ga (11.5%), Choy Li Fut (11.1%), Praying Mantis (10.6%), and Qinna (10.6%). Beyond these, a wide range of other styles are practiced by respondents, such as Bajiquan, Wudang Martial Arts, Hakka Kung Fu, Shuai Jiao, Eagle Claw, White Crane, Bak Mei, Zhou Family Praying Mantis, Pi Gua Quan, Cha Quan, Xin Yi Liu He Quan, Emei Fire Dragon Quan, Pi Gua Zhang, Short Weaponry, Lai Tung Pai, and Tith Ngaw Pai, showcasing the rich diversity of CMAs globally. Furthermore, 32.3% of respondents exclusively practice CMAs, yet a significant proportion also engage in other martial arts, including Karate (29.2%), Taekwondo (17.7%), Judo (17.3%), Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (16.4%), Boxing (15.5%), and Muay Thai (12.4%). This variety in martial arts practices among CMA practitioners abroad highlights the global appeal and diversity of martial arts disciplines.

The essence of CMAs is combat skill, with 90.3% of respondents believing they have learned the application of techniques and improved their fighting skills through studying CMAs. 82.7% feel they have learned martial virtues (Wu De) such as respect, self-discipline, perseverance, commitment, and trust. 81.9% understand the historical background and lineage of the CMAs they studied, 71.7% are aware of the cultural and philosophical foundations of CMAs, such as Yin-Yang and the Bagua, 54.4% have learned etiquette like the fist and palm salute, and only 13.7% are familiar with the master-apprentice ceremony. Additionally, some respondents noted that “language is also an important aspect gained during the learning process of CMAs, having learned to name movements in Cantonese, as well as terms for master, grandmaster, male and female fellow disciples, and counting in Cantonese.”

2.2 Instruments

This study incorporated three scales: Motivation for Practicing CMAs Scale, Perceived Belonging Scale and Persistence in Practicing CMAs Scale. To ensure the reliability and validity of the measurement tools, this research primarily utilized scales that have been previously employed in studies, which were then modified according to the research objectives to serve as empirical tools.

• Motivation for Practicing CMAs Scale. Motivation is an intrinsic force influencing behavior. The PALMS (Physical Activity and Leisure Motivation Scale) is a comprehensive tool based on Self-Determination Theory that measures motivation for participating in physical sports activities ( Morris and Rogers, 2004 ). This scale is a condensed version of the 73-item REMM (Recreational Exercise Motivation Measure), categorizing motivation into eight dimensions for participating in physical activities ( Rogers, 2000 ). These dimensions include Enjoyment, Mastery, Physical condition, Psychological condition, Appearance, Affiliation, Competition/Ego, and Others’ expectations. Enjoyment motivation is due to finding it fun, enjoyable, and happiness-inducing; Mastery motivation is due to the desire to acquire new skills and improve abilities; Physical condition motivation is for physical health and a robust physique. Psychological condition motivation is for stress relief and relaxation; Appearance motivation is to improve body shape and appearance; Affiliation motivation is for making new friends or spending time with friends. Competition/Ego motivation is to surpass or exceed others; Others’ expectations motivation is due to others expecting you to do so. The scale consists of 40 items, with alpha coefficients of all eight dimensions being 0.78 or higher, indicating high structural validity as confirmed through structural equation modeling ( Molanorouzi et al., 2014 ). Items are measured on a Likert 5-point scale, ranging from 1 (Strongly disagree) to 5 (Strongly agree).

• Perceived Belonging Scale. This scale is based on Self-Determination Theory and uses 11 items to measure the perceived Sense of Belonging. The scale’s Cronbach’s alpha coefficients are all above 0.70, and its construct validity has been verified through Structural Equation Modeling, showing a high level of fit ( Allen, 2006 ). Items are measured using a Likert 7-point scale, ranging from 1 (Disagree strongly) to 7 (Agree strongly).

• Persistence in Practicing CMAs Scale. Derived from exercise adherence, which refers to the individual’s tendency to demonstrate enduring, continuous, or effortful behavior during physical exercise ( Wang et al., 2016 ). This study employs the persistence scale by Liu et al. (2011) , which has an alpha coefficient of 0.85 and good fit. After revising to suit Persistence in Practicing CMAs, the scale was translated into English through iterative back-translation by bilingual translators ( Brislin, 1980 ). Items are measured using a Likert 5-point scale, with options ranging from 1 (Strongly disagree) to 5 (Strongly agree).

2.3 Analysis

The study utilized SPSS 20.0 and the Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) software AMOS 26.0 to conduct empirical analysis following these steps: First, employing a single-factor method for common method bias test; Second, using confirmatory factor analysis to test reliability and validity as well as the fit of the measurement model; Third, exploring the relationships between variables through correlation analysis; Fourth, assessing the overall fit of the structural model; Fifth, revising and interpreting the results of the model fit.

Additionally, the data underwent the following processes:

• Scale conversion. As the majority of scales used in this study were 7-point scales, the 5-point scale, was uniformly converted to 7-point scales for data analysis. The conversion formula is: Y = B − A × x − a b − a + A , where Y is the function of the converted scale, X is the function of the scale used in the original questionnaire, a and b are the minimum and maximum values of the original scale, and A and B are the minimum and maximum values of the converted scale, respectively.

• Item parceling. SEM analysis typically requires a sample to observed variable ratio of at least 10:1 ( Thompson, 2000 ). Given the difficulty of obtaining overseas sample data and the small sample size and complex model of this study, to meet the sample size requirements for SEM analysis, this study simplified the model by item parceling of first-order latent variables in the second-order model of Motivation for Practicing CMAs, based on the reliability and validity testing of the scales’ various latent variables.

3.1 Test for common method bias

Given that all data were self-reported by CMAs practitioners, the study first employed Harman’s single-factor test to examine common method bias. The exploratory factor analysis with rotation identified nine factors with eigenvalues greater than 1, where the largest factor accounted for 24.067% of the variance. These results are in line with the criteria proposed by Podsakoff et al. (2003) , where more than one factor with eigenvalues greater than 1 and the largest factor’s variance explanation being less than 40% indicate that severe common method bias is not present in this study.

3.2 Reliability and validity test and analysis of the fit of the measurement model

This study analyses the correspondence between measurement factors and items through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) (see Table 2 ).

• Measurement model fit. Items within each latent variable with standardized factor loadings below 0.4 were deleted ( Hair et al., 2014 ); model fit indices were checked, and items causing excessively high chi-square values due to residual correlations, indicating item similarity, were removed ( Landis et al., 2009 ). Ultimately, items a_4, b_1, b_5, c_1, d_3, d_4, e_2, f_3, g_5, h_1, and h_3 from the Motivation for Practicing CMAs scale, items 1, 3, 8, 9, and 10 from the Perceived Belonging Scale, and items 1 and 6 from the Persistence in Practicing CMAs Scale were deleted, thereby achieving a better model fit for each factor ( Hair et al., 2014 ). Factors not annotated with fit indices in the table are due to having only three items, constituting a just-identified model, where the number of data points matches the number of parameters to be estimated in the model, resulting in zero degrees of freedom, also known as a saturated model.

• Internal consistency coefficient ( α ). This value is a commonly used index for testing reliability, with the formula: α = K K − 1 1 − ∑ S i 2 S 2 , where K is the number of items in the scale, Σ S i 2 is the total variance of the scale items, and S 2 is the variance of the total score of the scale items. The α coefficient ranges from 0 to 1, with DeVellis (2017) suggesting that values between 0.65 and 0.70 are the minimum acceptable; values between 0.70 and 0.80 are quite good; values between 0.80 and 0.90 are very good. Almost all factors in this study had alpha coefficients above 0.70, indicating good internal consistency, with only one factor (Mastery) having an alpha value of 0.687, which is still within an acceptable range.

• Convergent validity is represented by the average variance extracted (AVE), which can be calculated using the formula: A V E = ∑ λ 2 ∑ λ 2 + ∑ θ , where λ represents the standardized factor loadings of the observed variables on the latent variable, and θ represents the error variance of the indicator variables. AVE reflects the extent to which a latent variable construct can explain the variance of its indicator variables. Higher AVE values indicate higher reliability and convergent validity of the construct. Fornell and Larcker (1981b) consider values between 0.36 to 0.5 as the minimum acceptable, and values above 0.5 as ideal. Most factors in this study had AVE values above 0.5, indicating good convergent validity. Only three factors (Enjoyment, Mastery, PiPCMAs) had AVE values below 0.5 but ≥0.36, which is still within an acceptable range.

• Composite Reliability (CR). This value can be calculated using the formula: C R = ∑ λ 2 ∑ λ 2 + ∑ θ , where λ represents the standardized factor loadings of the observed variables on the latent variable, and θ represents the error variance of the indicator variables. CR indicates whether all items within each latent variable consistently explain that latent variable. Fornell and Larcker (1981a) suggest that a CR value above 0.6 indicates good composite reliability. All latent variables in this study had CR values above 0.6, indicating good composite reliability.

Table 2 . Summary of confirmatory factor analysis for each factor in the research model.

3.3 Correlation analysis of Motivation for Practicing CMAs, Sense of Belonging, and Persistence in Practicing CMAs

Table 3 presents the descriptive statistics and correlation coefficients for Motivation for Practicing CMAs, Sense of Belonging, and Persistence in Practicing CMAs. Correlation coefficients with statistical significance related to Persistence in Practicing CMAs are highlighted in bold, with M ± SD denoting mean ± standard deviation. The bold italic numbers on the diagonal are the square roots of the Average Variance Extracted (AVE) for each variable. The results indicate that there is a significant positive correlation between Persistence in Practicing CMAs and Sense of Belonging ( r  = 0.347, p  < 0.01). Additionally, Persistence in Practicing CMAs is positively correlated with aspects of Motivation for Practicing CMAs, including Enjoyment ( r  = 0.306, p  < 0.01), Mastery ( r  = 0.422, p  < 0.01), Physical Condition ( r  = 0.345, p  < 0.01), Psychological Condition ( r  = 0.295, p  < 0.01), and Appearance ( r  = 0.150, p  < 0.01). However, there are no significant correlations between Persistence in Practicing CMAs and other motivational aspects such as Affiliation, Competition/Ego, and Others’ expectations. Furthermore, comparing the square root of each variable’s AVE with the correlation coefficients between that variable and others reveals that the square root of the AVE for each variable is greater than its correlation coefficients with other variables, indicating discriminant validity among the variables in this study.

Table 3 . Descriptive statistics and correlation coefficients for factors ( N  = 226).

3.4 Structural model test of the persistence behavior formation mechanism in practicing CMAs

3.4.1 testing the second-order model of motivation for practicing cmas.

Correlational analysis among variables revealed (1) Within Motivation for Practicing CMAs, Affiliation, Competition/Ego, and Others’ expectations showed no significant correlation with Persistence in Practicing CMAs, while the other five dimensions of motivation (Enjoyment, Mastery, Physical Condition, Psychological Condition, and Appearance) were all related to Persistence in Practicing CMAs; (2) The correlations among the five motivations for practicing CMAs (Enjoyment, Mastery, Physical Condition, Psychological Condition, and Appearance) were generally moderate ( r  > 0.4) (see Table 3 ). In SEM, when first-order factors are moderately to highly correlated and all influenced by a higher-order latent trait, a second-order confirmatory factor analysis can be performed ( Wu, 2010 ). Therefore, the study considered Enjoyment, Mastery, Physical Condition, Psychological Condition, and Appearance as first-order factors and Motivation for Practicing CMAs as a second-order factor to test the fit of the Motivation for Practicing CMAs second-order model (see Figure 2 ).

Figure 2 . Second-order model of Motivation for Practicing Chinese Martial Arts; *** p  < 0.001.

First, testing whether the second-order model can explain the first-order model. Marsh and Hocevar (1985) argue that a target coefficient (the chi-square value of the first-order factors divided by the chi-square value of the second-order model) closer to 1 indicates greater accuracy of the second-order model. By calculating the target coefficient, it was found that the target coefficient for Motivation for Practicing CMAs is 0.918 (253.067/275.551), indicating excellent adaptability of the second-order CFA index (see Table 4 ).

Table 4 . Goodness-of-fit indexes for alternative models of the second-order Motivation for Practicing Chinese Martial Arts ( N  = 226).

Second, testing the fit of the second-order model. The RMSEA of the second-order model for Motivation for Practicing CMAs is 0.071, GFI = 0.885, CFI = 0.922, χ 2 /df = 2.120, indicating that the model fits well.

Third, testing the convergent validity and construct reliability of the second-order model. Upon testing, the Average Variance Extracted (AVE) of the second-order model for Motivation for Practicing CMAs is 0.535, greater than 0.5, indicating good convergent validity; the Construct Reliability (CR) is 0.848, significantly higher than 0.6, indicating good construct reliability (see Table 5 ).

Table 5 . Confirmatory factor analysis for the second-order model of Motivation for Practicing Chinese Martial Arts.

In conclusion, the second-order model of Motivation for Practicing CMAs is acceptable, meaning it can effectively explain the constructs of the first-order factors.

3.4.2 Testing the formation mechanism model of Persistence in Practicing CMAs

Motivation for Practicing CMAs and Sense of Belonging were treated as exogenous variables, while Persistence in Practicing CMAs was treated as an endogenous variable, and the model was fitted using the Maximum Likelihood (ML) estimation method.

• Overall Model Fit Test. The model fit indices were examined from three aspects: absolute fit indexes, incremental fit indexes, and parsimony fit indexes. Among these, the absolute fit indexes showed χ 2  = 186.790, GFI = 0.899, close to 0.9, and RMSEA = 0.071, less than 0.08; the incremental fit indices IFI = 0.931, TLI = 0.916, and CFI = 0.931, all greater than 0.90; the parsimony fit index χ 2 /df = 2.147, satisfying the criterion of being less than 3, indicating a good overall fit of the structural equation model.

• Model Path Analysis and Hypothesis Testing. Figure 3 presents the structural model of the persistence behavior formation mechanism in overseas CMAs practitioners. The results indicate that Motivation for Practicing CMAs, composed of Enjoyment, Mastery, Physical Condition, Psychological Condition, and Appearance, has a significant positive impact on Persistence in Practicing CMAs ( β  = 0.297, b  = 0.489, t  = 3.062, p  < 0.01), supporting H1; Sense of Belonging also significantly positively affects Persistence in Practicing CMAs ( β  = 0.268, b  = 0.189, t  = 3.141, p  < 0.01), supporting H2; the model explains 22.1% of the variance in Persistence in Practicing CMAs (see Table 6 ).

Figure 3 . Research model path diagram. PiPCMAs, Persistence in Practicing Chinese Martial Arts; ** p  < 0.01; *** p  < 0.001.

Table 6 . Path analysis of the research model.

4 Discussion

This study, grounded in Self-Determination Theory and exploring from a motivational viewpoint, conducted an empirical investigation into the mechanisms behind the persistence behavior of overseas practitioners in CMAs. Our findings reveal that: (1) The motivation to practice, encompassed by Enjoyment, Mastery, Physical Condition, Psychological Condition, and Appearance, exerts a significant positive impact on Persistence in Practicing CMAs; (2) A Sense of Belonging significantly positively affects Persistence in Practicing CMAs; (3) Motivational factors such as Affiliation, Competition/Ego, and Others’ Expectations do not exhibit a significant correlation with Persistence in Practicing CMAs.

4.1 Conceptual explanation of Persistence in Practicing CMAs

Persistence in Practicing CMAs denotes the level of sustained effort exhibited by practitioners when faced with challenges and obstacles during their training. The evaluation of this concept through standardized factor loadings of survey items (see Table 2 ) offers insightful revelations about persistence. The findings, ordered by their factor loadings, reveal a hierarchy of persistent elements: the highest loading is observed for the statement “Living without Chinese Martial Arts would be difficult for me” (0.839), underscoring the integral role that CMAs play in the lives of practitioners. This sentiment reflects a deep emotional bond with the practice, suggesting that the absence of CMAs would significantly impact their lifestyle and well-being. Following this, the item “I would feel disheartened if I had to stop practicing Chinese martial arts” (0.645) highlights the emotional investment practitioners place in their training, where the prospect of discontinuation evokes a sense of loss. This emotional investment is pivotal in fostering continued engagement with CMAs, even in the face of challenges. The statement “Despite my limited time, I’ve never stopped practicing Chinese martial arts” (0.593) illustrates the practitioners’ commitment and effective time management, indicating that they prioritize CMAs practice despite competing demands on their time. Lastly, the item “Even though there are difficulties in practicing Chinese martial arts, I am willing to persist in practicing it” (0.493), despite its relatively lower factor loading, underscores the resilience and determination among practitioners. Drawing on the qualitative sociological research by Jennings (2010) , which posits that the practice of CMAs among British practitioners transcends mere physical training to encompass broader socio-cultural and psychological commitments, this resilience is further understood as a testament to the practitioners’ dedication, where challenges and obstacles do not deter their commitment to CMAs.

In sum, these insights reveal that a blend of emotional attachment, commitment to practice, and resilience against challenges contributes to the high persistence observed among CMA practitioners. Such persistence is not merely a function of habit but a reflection of a profound connection to the art, underscoring its significance in their lives and identities. This analysis not only elucidates the factors underpinning persistence in CMAs practice but also highlights the multifaceted relationship practitioners have with their art, characterized by emotional depth, dedication, and resilience. These insights are pivotal for comprehending and enhancing the global dissemination of CMAs and ensuring its continuous practice among overseas practitioners.

4.2 Explanation of the formation mechanism of Persistence in Practicing CMAs

4.2.1 the impact of motivation on persistence in practicing cmas.

Morris’s classification divides eight motivational dimensions into three categories: intrinsic motivation (Enjoyment, Mastery), extrinsic psychophysical motivation (Physical Condition, Psychological Condition, Appearance), and extrinsic social motivation (Affiliation, Competition/Ego, Others’ Expectations) ( Morris and Rogers, 2004 ).

The study’s results demonstrate a significant positive impact of the composite motivation for practicing CMAs - which includes Enjoyment, Mastery, Physical Condition, Psychological Condition, and Appearance - on the persistence of practice ( β  = 0.297, p  < 0.01). Notably, the order of influence, based on standardized factor loadings, is Physical Condition (0.835), followed by Appearance (0.691), Psychological Condition (0.654), Mastery (0.591), and Enjoyment (0.477). Conversely, extrinsic social motivations such as Affiliation, Competition/Ego, and Others’ Expectations show no substantial correlation with the persistence in CMAs practice. This elucidation suggests that while intrinsic and psychophysical motivations significantly foster continued engagement with CMAs, external social pressures and expectations do not markedly affect practitioners’ dedication. This insight underscores the complex interplay of personal fulfillment and physical well-being in sustaining CMAs practice, rather than external validation or social affiliations.

4.2.1.1 Intrinsic motivation

The intrinsic motivations for engaging in CMAs, including Mastery (0.591) and Enjoyment (0.477), play a pivotal role in sustaining practitioners’ commitment to their training. This finding aligns with Ryan et al. (1997) research, which also identified that persistence among Tae Kwon Do participants was significantly associated with enjoyment and competence motives, underscoring the universal importance of intrinsic motivations in the continuity of martial arts practice.

The significant factor loading of Mastery (0.591) reveals that the drive to enhance skills and competencies is a crucial motivator for individuals to continue their CMAs practice. This motivation highlights the practitioners’ dedication to personal improvement and a profound engagement with CMAs as both an art and a discipline. It reflects a deep-seated interest in mastering intricate skills and gaining an in-depth understanding of CMAs culture. Chu et al. (2009) and Ryan et al. (1997) have highlighted the significance of Mastery motivation - defined as the drive to acquire new skills and enhance personal abilities - in fostering persistence in exercise routines. This motivation for mastery, underscored by both studies, is validated within the context of this investigation, particularly among practitioners of CMAs.

The narrative shared by participants vividly illustrates how the motivation for Mastery underpins the persistence in practicing CMAs. Participants exhibited a deep fascination with the complex technical frameworks, historical evolution, and combat techniques of CMAs, reflecting a commitment that transcends mere cultural appreciation to include a genuine desire for personal growth and self-improvement. For instance, one respondent’s pursuit of martial arts styles’ “old flavor” exemplifies a passion that extends beyond physical practice to a comprehensive exploration of the culture and history that underlie CMAs. This individual’s dedication to learning Chinese characters to interpret ancient texts demonstrates an endeavor to gain a nuanced understanding of the practices, highlighting a search for traditional and cultural roots that signify a profound respect and connection with martial arts beyond mere physicality. This inclination towards understanding the foundational philosophies and historical context of martial arts, as highlighted in the study by Jones et al. (2006) , underscores the depth of engagement with CMAs that goes beyond the surface level of physical skills to embrace a holistic appreciation of its cultural significance and personal relevance. Additionally, another participant’s fascination with the combat techniques of Shaolin Kung Fu signals a preference for technical mastery and practical application. Conversely, a different respondent expressed a deep emotional bond and identification with learning CMAs, describing each movement and technique as a ‘gift’. This perspective reveals a journey of not just acquiring combat skills but also learning valuable life lessons in self-respect, discipline, and resilience, thus portraying it as a comprehensive life lesson. In essence, these examples underscore the pivotal role of Mastery motivation in fostering a sustained commitment to CMAs.

Transitioning from the profound influence of Mastery motivation on the persistence of CMAs practice, it’s equally important to consider the role of Enjoyment motivation. The high scoring of Enjoyment (M = 6.343) among the motivational factors underscores the intrinsic joy and satisfaction derived from practicing CMAs. This enjoyment is not merely ancillary; as corroborated by prior research, the pleasure experienced during physical activities serves as a significant determinant for the continuation of such practices ( Ryan et al., 1997 ; Lee, 2018 ; Rodrigues et al., 2020 ). This study further affirms the vital role of enjoyment in enhancing practitioners’ dedication to CMAs, illustrating how the pleasure gained from practice effectively promotes persistence.

In summary, the combination of Mastery and Enjoyment motivations not only deepens practitioners’ understanding and identification with CMAs culture but also increases the pleasure and personal satisfaction of practicing CMAs, thus positively affecting the persistence in practicing CMAs. These findings emphasize the importance of focusing on and cultivating intrinsic motivations in the promotion of CMAs, especially in international dissemination, by reinforcing CMAs as a means of skill enhancement and pleasure, to increase audience participation and persistence.

4.2.1.2 Extrinsic psychophysical motivation

Extrinsic psychophysical motivations, encompassing Physical Condition, Psychological Condition, and Appearance, significantly contribute to the persistence in practicing CMAs, as evidenced by standardized factor loadings of Physical Condition (0.835), Psychological Condition (0.654), and Appearance (0.691). These loadings underscore the critical role these motivations play for CMAs practitioners. Initially, the predominant role of Physical Condition reflects the practitioners’ acknowledgment of CMAs as a potent physical exercise modality. The health advantages of CMAs, extensively documented and affirmed within the international academic community, have garnered recognition from worldwide health organizations, attracting a global cohort of participants ( Cao and Lin, 2020 ). This has led to a surge in individuals engaging in CMAs to attain enhanced physical health and a more robust physique.

The substantial factor loading of Psychological Condition motivation reveals a dual focus of CMAs practice, aimed not only at physical health enhancement but also at bolstering psychological well-being. Ways of martial arts include certain forms of psychophysical culture, which, based on the tradition of warrior cultures, lead through training in fighting techniques to psychophysical improvement and self-realization ( Cynarski, 2017 ), emphasizing the holistic development achieved through CMAs. Practices, especially those centered around internal regulation and meditation like Tai Chi, are reputed to mitigate stress, bolster emotional stability, and fortify psychological resilience ( Wang et al., 2014 ). Furthermore, complementing these psychological benefits, research by Twemlow and Sacco (1998) highlights another dimension of CMAs’ impact on psychological conditioning. It demonstrates how traditional CMAs training significantly contributes to reducing violent tendencies in adolescents. This effect is linked to the training’s focus on promoting self-control and nurturing respect for others, illustrating CMAs’ practice as a comprehensive development of both moral and spiritual qualities, beyond mere physical activity.

Additionally, the significant factor loading attributed to Appearance motivation reflects a prevalent pursuit among the international audience to refine their physique and appearance through CMAs. In contemporary society, an appealing appearance and a healthy physique are often seen as symbols of personal image and confidence. The proliferation of social media has made this phenomenon even more pronounced, expanding the influence of health and aesthetic standards and intensifying appearance anxieties ( Hawes et al., 2020 ; Deng and Jiang, 2023 ). Against this backdrop, CMAs, as a comprehensive exercise regimen, effectively help practitioners enhance their physical beauty and overall health. This focus on appearance likely mirrors the prevailing health and aesthetic standards in modern society, showcasing CMAs’ ability to fulfill individuals’ desires for an attractive physique along with health benefits.

In conclusion, the triad of extrinsic psychophysical motivations – Physical Condition, Psychological Condition, and Appearance - has a positive impact on the sustained engagement in CMAs practice. These factors not only bolster the physical and psychological well-being of practitioners but also cater to their aspirations for an improved appearance, thereby reinforcing their commitment and continuity in CMAs practice. The research findings by Jiang and Wu (2004) corroborate this observation, highlighting the crucial role of these motivational factors in fostering long-term exercise adherence. These insights hold significant implications for the worldwide propagation of CMAs, advocating for promotional strategies that emphasize the multifaceted benefits of CMAs in enhancing physical health, psychological well-being, and appearance.

4.2.1.3 Extrinsic social motivation

Extrinsic social motivations - Affiliation, Competition/Ego, and Others’ Expectations - do not exhibit a significant correlation with the persistence of practitioners in CMAs. While Affiliation is typically considered a key motivator in various sports activities, its influence on the continuity of CMAs practice is minimal. A plausible explanation for this lies in the intrinsic values embedded in CMAs, particularly the ethic of Nature and Man, which fundamentally shapes the practitioner’s approach to CMAs. The ethic of Nature and Man, fundamental to traditional CMAs, promotes harmony between humans and nature, fostering independence by encouraging practitioners to value personal insight and resilience over external influences. This philosophy also drives the pursuit of self-improvement and skill mastery, explaining why Affiliation has little impact on the commitment to CMAs practice. Through fostering a strong internal motivation for personal growth, it underlines the importance of self-development in sustaining practice ( Li and Guo, 2016 ). The ethos within CMAs culture, encapsulated by the adage “The master introduces the path, practice is personal,” underscores the emphasis on individual commitment and internal enlightenment. This ethos suggests that beyond a certain proficiency level, practitioners are encouraged to internalize and personally refine their skills. Consequently, those with a penchant for solitude and self-motivation might find themselves more aligned with the demands and rewards of CMAs practice.

Furthermore, the Competition/Ego motivation, typically linked to aspirations for superiority and success in competitive sports ( Witkowski et al., 2013 ), has a negligible impact on the dedication to CMAs practice. This observation may indicate that CMAs are internationally recognized more as a medium for cultural engagement and self-improvement rather than as a competitive endeavor. This finding contrasts with the research by Witkowski et al. (2013) and Molanorouzi et al. (2015) , where Witkowski et al. noted that judokas often prioritize winning prestigious competitions, and Molanorouzi et al. identified competition/ego as the most significant motivational factor for participation in martial arts like karate, taekwondo, and tai chi. This discrepancy raises interesting questions about the role of competition as a motivational factor in martial arts practice. A possible explanation for the diminished role of competition/ego in our study could be related to the specific styles of martial arts examined. There’s a distinction between practitioners of combat sports, such as Judo, and those of form-based martial arts, like Tai Chi. This difference stems from the focus in non-contact disciplines on self-control and self-fulfillment, rather than exclusively on the efficacy of combat. Additionally, this difference may also be related to the cultural contexts underlying these practices. CMAs, with their rich historical and philosophical underpinnings, may attract practitioners with different sets of motivations compared to those drawn to martial arts for competitive success. In particular, the emphasis in many CMAs on internal development, mindfulness, and the cultivation of Qi (vital energy) may appeal more to those seeking personal growth and health benefits than to those motivated by competition. Moreover, the cultural values associated with CMAs, such as harmony, respect, and self-discipline, might further de-emphasize the importance of competition, highlighting the art’s role in personal and spiritual development. In contrast, martial arts like karate and taekwondo, though they also embody deep cultural and philosophical principles, might be more closely associated with the competitive sport aspect in international perceptions, thereby attracting practitioners with a stronger orientation towards competition/ego. In conclusion, the variance in motivational factors between this study and that of Molanorouzi et al. (2015) underscores the complexity of martial arts as a global phenomenon and the need to consider the cultural and stylistic nuances when examining practitioners’ motivations. It suggests that the pursuit of martial arts, particularly CMAs, transcends the mere desire for competitive success, embodying a deeper search for cultural connection and personal refinement.

Lastly, while the expectation of others may initially motivate some individuals to engage in CMAs, this study reveals that such external pressures have a minimal effect on long-term commitment to CMAs practice. This finding suggests that the sustained practice of CMAs relies more on intrinsic motivation and personal commitment rather than external validation or expectations. This emphasizes the importance of recognizing the unique motivational dynamics that influence persistence in CMAs, suggesting a need for future promotional and educational strategies to highlight the personal and cultural benefits of CMAs practice, tailored to foster long-term engagement.

Overall, the combined influence of motivational factors such as Enjoyment, Mastery, Physical Condition, Psychological Condition, and Appearance forms a multifaceted motivational framework that significantly impacts the persistence of practitioners in CMAs ( β  = 0.297, p  < 0.01). This composite motivation structure underscores that practitioners’ dedication to CMAs is not fueled by a singular motive but rather by a synergistic effect of various motivators. This insight underlines the necessity of acknowledging the multifaceted nature of motivation in enhancing the persistence of CMAs practice, especially when promoting CMAs. In the context of global dissemination, it becomes imperative to enrich practitioners’ experiences and perceptions related to skill advancement, inner satisfaction, health benefits, psychological welfare, and appearance enhancement.

4.2.2 The impact of Sense of Belonging on Persistence in Practicing CMAs

Sense of Belonging embodies an individual’s perception of affiliation with an organization, distinguishing itself from the affiliation motive in CMAs practice. Whereas affiliation involves engaging in CMAs to foster social connections, Sense of Belonging encapsulates the experience of affiliation felt within a group. This concept is evaluated through six indicators, whose standardized factor loadings are as follows: “Other Kung Fu brothers and sisters here like me the way I am” (0.888), “Other Kung Fu brothers and sisters in my group respect me” (0.835), “Other Kung Fu brothers and sisters in my group take my opinions seriously” (0.776), “People in my group are friendly to me” (0.773), “I can truly be myself in this group” (0.754), “Others in the group notice when I’m skilled at something” (0.681). These metrics collectively underscore a pivotal theme: practitioners’ desire for acceptance, respect, and validation of their personal worth within the CMAs community.

Our findings demonstrate that a strong Sense of Belonging significantly influences the continuity of CMAs practice ( β  = 0.268, p  < 0.01). Specifically, a heightened sense of organizational belonging is directly linked to increased perseverance in CMAs, aligning with the outcomes of prior research ( Carron et al., 1988 ). This correlation suggests that the support and respect from peers within the CMAs community are crucial factors in bolstering practitioners’ dedication to CMAs. Similarly, a study conducted in Melbourne, Australia, found that a Sense of Belonging ( β  = 0.644, p  < 0.05) is one of the key predictors in attracting and retaining members in martial arts clubs, further corroborating our findings that an enhanced sense of organizational belonging is crucial for increasing perseverance in CMAs ( Kopanidis, 2023 ).

Moreover, Sense of Belonging amplifies practitioners’ sense of identity and role within their community, thereby fostering deeper commitment and sustained participation in CMAs activities. In Chinese martial arts, which are deeply embedded in cultural traditions, the mentor-disciple relationship is essential in nurturing a Sense of Belonging among practitioners. This dynamic, as highlighted by Levett-Jones et al. (2009) , is a key influence on students’ feelings of connectedness. The Initiation Ceremony, an integral tradition within this relationship, plays a significant role in strengthening communal ties and shaping a collective identity within the CMA community.

The Initiation Ceremony is characterized by its profound ritualistic elements, beginning with incense offerings to heaven, earth, and the ancestral masters. This act symbolizes respect and the formal acceptance of a new disciple. Following this, the disciple’s bows and kowtows to the mentor, adhering to the “three bows and nine kowtows” tradition, further cement the disciple’s commitment and reverence. The exchange of the initiation certificate during the ceremony marks the disciple’s formal induction into the lineage. The culmination of this ceremony with the offering of tea and the hosting of a banquet by the disciple in honor of the mentor celebrates the establishment of the mentor-disciple bond ( Xing and Zhou, 2013 ).

Participants in the Initiation Ceremony experience a deep moral and ceremonial sense, which transcends mere external formality to reinforce value identification, such as respect for the mentor and commitment to the martial path, fostering trust and unity within the community. This ceremony not only integrates disciples into the lineage, providing them with a Sense of Belonging, responsibility, and mission but also enhances their cultural identity and commitment to the practice. Additionally, CMA schools often honor their founding masters through portraits, and mentors lead disciples in respectful salutations, instilling a sense of reverence and transforming external rituals into internal awareness, which promotes self-affirmation and strengthens the collective identity of the practitioners within their moral community ( Lin and Cao, 2020 ).

Reflecting on Durkheim (2016) , the concept that a group bonded by shared values, behavioral norms, or rituals forms a “moral community” is highlighted. This notion is supported by Jennings et al. (2010) , who view the martial arts school as a “moral community” akin to a secular religion, where beliefs and practices converge to forge a strong communal identity among practitioners. One respondent vividly described Chinese Martial Arts as providing “meaning or belonging; it’s something I can put my mind to, and the more I learn, the more I can learn,” encapsulating the profound personal and communal significance of CMAs.

In essence, the Sense of Belonging is integral to sustaining practice within CMAs. The establishment of mentor-disciple relationships, the ritualistic aspects of the Initiation Ceremony, and the formation of a moral community all contribute to a deep Sense of Belonging among practitioners. This belonging not only solidifies their cultural identity but also fuels their continuous passion and dedication to the practice. Thus, in promoting CMAs on an international scale, it is essential to emphasize the importance of these cultural and ritualistic elements to enhance practitioners’ Sense of Belonging and ensure their long-term commitment and persistence in the art.

4.3 Limitations and directions for future research

This study aimed to explore the impact of motivations for practicing CMAs on the persistence of such practice and employed a second-order model to aggregate motivation factors significantly associated with persistence (such as enjoyment, mastery, physical and psychological health, and appearance) to understand how these motivations collectively influence the persistence in practicing CMAs. However, this research did not individually explore the differences in the impact of these motivation factors on the persistence of practicing CMAs, necessitating further detailed examination of their specific contributions to persistence in future studies.

Moreover, while this study included 226 participants from various countries and age groups, it did not delve into the potential impact of participants’ background characteristics on the research model. Research by Ding et al. (2015) found significant differences in the motivations of CMAs practitioners based on gender, skill level, martial arts style, and membership type. Zeng (2019) further noted that while nationality showed variations in participation motivation, skill level was not a decisive factor. In Ding et al. (2015) study, comparisons were made between the novice group and the advanced group, whereas Zeng (2019) focused on the comparison between medium level and high level. Importantly, in specific traditional CMAs styles, due to the lack of competition and grading/ranking systems, determining a Chinese martial artist’s skill level is often challenging. These findings suggest that future research should conduct more detailed analyses of background variables such as gender, age, nationality, and martial arts style to explore how these factors influence the motivation to persistently practice CMAs, providing a comprehensive view of the complex dynamics behind different practitioners’ persistence in practicing CMAs.

Lastly, this study accounted for only 22.1% of the variance in Persistence in Practicing CMAs, indicating that other important factors not explored in this research could influence persistence. Therefore, future research could investigate additional variables, such as personal goals, social support, and the interaction between instructors and practitioners, to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the motivation to persistently practice CMAs. By exploring these factors, future research can further promote a deeper understanding of sustained engagement in CMAs practice, thereby contributing to the global dissemination and cultural exchange of CMAs more effectively.

Data availability statement

The raw data supporting the conclusions of this article will be made available by the authors, without undue reservation.

Ethics statement

Ethical approval was not required for the studies involving humans because this study involved non-sensitive, anonymous data collection through public domain research methods, with no potential risk to participants. The studies were conducted in accordance with the local legislation and institutional requirements. Written informed consent for participation was not required from the participants or the participants’ legal guardians/next of kin in accordance with the national legislation and institutional requirements because implied consent was obtained through completion of the survey, in line with the consent statement provided at the beginning of the survey.

Author contributions

XC: Conceptualization, Data curation, Formal analysis, Funding acquisition, Investigation, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing. HL: Investigation, Methodology, Writing – review & editing.

The author(s) declare financial support was received for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article. This work was supported by the 2023 Zhejiang Provincial Philosophy and Social Science Planning Project (Grant no. 23NDJC134YB), the 2023 Ningbo Education Science Planning Project (Lifelong Education) (Grant no. 2023YGHZS-YB01), the Ningbo University Talent Engineering Project (Humanities) (Grant no. ZX2021000865), and the 2024 Ningbo University Teaching and Research Project (Grant no. JYXM2024040).

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to thank all the kung fu brothers and sisters who participated in our survey.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Publisher’s note

All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article, or claim that may be made by its manufacturer, is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

Supplementary material

The Supplementary material for this article can be found online at: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1403327/full#supplementary-material

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Keywords: Chinese martial arts (CMAs), persistence in practice, motivation, Sense of Belonging, questionnaire, structural equation modeling (SEM)

Citation: Cao X and Lyu H (2024) Motivational drivers and Sense of Belonging: unpacking the persistence in Chinese Martial Arts practice among international practitioners. Front. Psychol . 15:1403327. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1403327

Received: 19 March 2024; Accepted: 15 April 2024; Published: 02 May 2024.

Reviewed by:

Copyright © 2024 Cao and Lyu. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY) . The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

*Correspondence: Hui Lyu, [email protected]

Disclaimer: All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

Unique style of Kung Fu makes its way into Rapid City

RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA) - Martial arts are taught all over the world in a wide range of styles. Kung Fu in particular is focused heavily on self-defense and preparing for a conflict before it happens. One instructor in Rapid City is bringing a unique variation of the art with the help of one of the few people who teach it.

Ving Tsun is a style of Kung Fu that heavily focuses on the real-world application of techniques taught in the classroom.

The philosophy is that most threats will not adhere to rules when fighting in the real world and the style helps to prepare students for situations that are more likely to occur in conflict.

Many of the techniques students of this style learn are similar to Kung Fu in general but the scenarios and application of that is where the Ving Tsun differs.

As part of promoting this style of Kung Fu, Peter Peterson the instructor at Black Hills Kung Fu has partnered with one of the last instructors doing this style in China, Peter Lee.

This week he will be in the Black Hills at Liberty Center YMCA teaching the art.

“There’s a number of things why you should learn Kung Fu it’s gonna help you strengthen your body, confidence, defend yourself if need be, that’s a last resort, and it’s good for your health,” Peterson said.

You have to be enrolled in one of those classes at the Liberty Center YMCA for any direct instruction with Master Lee, but Peterson says if you miss Lee this week you can always sign up for classes with Peterson at Rapid City Kung Fu. You can find more information on their classes here .

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KOTA Cares: Rapid City 2nd grader battles rare brain tumor

SD Democrats call for removal of Noem’s Chief of Communications

NEW: ‘Owners can’t vote him out,’ Q&A with Marshals Co-Owner Wes Johnson

There is 1 year left to switch your ID to ‘Real ID’

Rapid City businesses fail alcohol compliance checks and are a reminder to not sell alcohol to minors

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The DAV and VA are hosting a mental health information fair for veterans

Trial date set for man accused of murder

Witnesses testify against Rapid City man who allegedly killed man outside of Family Dollar

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