Goals of Martial Arts

The goal of martial arts training is not merely learning how to fight. Self-defense skill is important, but there is far more to it. The complete martial artist strives to improve physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Without character development, one's martial arts skills may become more of a liability than an asset. The true martial artist avoids unnecessary conflicts by all means and does not take combat lightly.

Yet, when confronted by unjust threats, the martial artist will fight back with absolute resolve. Fighting for a cause is the essence which differentiates a common fighter from a warrior. The fighter fights for ambition, recognition, pride, and money — while the warrior fights for a cause. This is the code and spirit of a warrior: that we are pacifists who are ready to fight back.

The Mind and Body Martial Arts Center strives to instill this spirit within its students, to go along with their physical self-defense skills. A second attribute of the martial artist is that we go beyond the call of duty.

A true martial artist always strives for perfection — not merely a passing grade or meeting the status quo set by an individual, organization, or society. This attitude reflects in the way we practice, teach, and manage our school. Our students are always taught to do their utmost best in everything. Striving for excellence is our way of life and the spirit of martial arts.

"The ultimate aim of martial arts lies not in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants." — Gichin Funakoshi