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Frequently Asked Questions
Teacher, I love the martial arts but I am not into fighting. I like the study of forms and techniques, but I am not into tournament competition.
Can I still learn martial arts without fighting?
Many Chinese learn
martial arts without the fighting aspects. In Taiwan, each morning many
hundreds of people gather to practice Tai Chi in the park. Most of the
practitioners have little or no knowledge of the fighting aspects of Tai
Chi or even care to know of its combat value. They practice for the
health benefits Tai Chi advances. Many who study Wu Shu in China have
little understanding of true hand to hand combat. They study purely for
the artistic values of the arts and the physical benefits derived from
the practice.
Of course the martial arts were primarily developed for
personal self defense, but today the arts are more than just fighting.
They comprise an art form that advocates self discipline, good health,
and philosophy. As I often say, martial arts are based on the three
great pillars of the development of Mind, Body and Spirit. It is up to
each students to discuss with his teacher what it is he is hoping to
achieve in martial arts training. This way the teacher can focus in the
area of interest.
There is no disgrace in not wanting to fight. In fact,
nonviolence is always the preferred way to handle situations.
Return to Frequently Asked Questions
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