Martial arts have been a big part of my life since I was a child. I started first with Kung Fu then Arnis/Eskrima and most largely Western Martial Arts (those I teach and practice at my school Academie Duello). I am often asked why people practice martial arts or why I practice swordplay specifically – considering it’s unlikely that I’ll be in a life-and-death sword fight anytime soon. I put together a quick synopsis of reasons I feel are worthy for the practice of Martial Arts (this is not all of them) for the Academie Duello blog. I thought I’d post them here as well:

Personal Growth
Martial arts help us test our capabilities, push our limits, build our confidence in our physical and mental selves, and face challenges of our lives in the microcosm we create on the school training floor.

Physical Fitness
Martial Arts engage not just your body but your mind and the strength that you build tends to be much more functional as the training environment is complex and the achievement goals are much broader. This is a place where you not only build physical strength but broader health, grace, dexterity, and confidence in your physical self.

Competition
I don’t believe it should be the exclusive destination of your training however it is a great test of ability, a crucible within which broader understanding can be formed. Tournaments can be an excellent place to meet personal barriers and create a sense of achievement.

Performance
Martial art can be one of the most profound and visceral performances you can witness or be a part of. Whether as partner exercises, solo assaults (like Eastern Martial Arts katas), or theatrical displays, performance is a worthy and rewarding expression of the art.

Community
Sharing a passion is a powerful way to build true and lasting connections. Wherever I go in the world I know I can find the company of other martial artists and that we’ll have something beautiful to share. Don’t think building a connection to others is not a worthy end for martial arts, it is perhaps the most essential part of human existence.

Fun
Lets not forget perhaps the most easily dismissed yet probably the most important — Joy. Exploring a passion, meeting new challenges, connecting with friends, swinging a sword around, shooting a bow. These things can be inherently pleasing endeavours. Beyond this level of fun, martial arts can also bring the deeper joy that comes from realizing what you’re truly capable of.

Whatever your reason. Practice well and strive to be your best.