Self-discipline isn’t something that you’re born with. It’s a learned behavior, which means that you can practice and develop it like any other skill.
To be successful in your martial arts journey, you must have discipline. And martial arts helps students of all ages and experience levels develop this skill. Here are three reasons why discipline is important in a martial arts practice:
1. Discipline helps you stick to a step-by-step approach.
In martial arts, it’s impossible to start with mastering the most advanced techniques. Instead, students learn by following a step-by-step, systematic approach. Progress comes from going from one goal to the next and working on mastering skills at each step. To keep yourself from jumping ahead, you must stay disciplined.
2. Use discipline to adjust your expectations.
Martial arts is a marathon, not a sprint. For anyone who wants immediate success or instant gratification, it can be a challenging activity, especially at the beginning. But if you stick with your practice, your discipline will begin to shift your mindset. You’ll become more patient and realistic about your expectations. Rather than expecting to become a master overnight, you’ll commit to long-term goals, as well as to the work needed to be successful.
3. Discipline enables you to practice self-control.
While it takes discipline to commit to and pursue a goal, discipline also helps you practice self-control in the process. Discipline and control work together. These two skills together help you to lessen any distractions that take your focus away from what you’re trying to accomplish. At the same time, you learn how to manage your body, movements, emotions, and responses.
Are you ready to start practicing discipline both on and off the mats? Karma Karate in Newtown Square offers a variety of programs and classes that can help get you started. To learn more about what we have to offer, contact us today.
