There are basically three types of Martial Artists:

  • Casual/Recreational-These types generally join a school for fitness and self-defense reasons. They train for a moderate amount of time but don’t really care if they attain a Black Belt or not. They drift in/out and eventually their “out” time leads them to find a reason not to return.
  • Serious-This group will persevere through the difficulties and challenges and will reach their goal of attaining a Black Belt. At this point, they may persist for some time but they are satisfied with their level of accomplishment. They have succeeded at the difficult task and that is satisfaction enough for them. They may persist for a time but they, too, end up leaving. For them, it’s not so much about developing further, but about the goal they’ve reached. For the rest of their lives, they can say they are a Black Belt.
  • Lifelong-The people in this group find themselves in a interesting situation. They get their Black Belt and suddenly realize that the journey has just begun, at least for them. They use the Black Belt as a jumping of point into further development and challenges in Martial Arts. In their hearts, they know that training is something they will do for the rest of their lives. They are not satisfied and that attitude drives them forward indefinitely. These are known as “practicing” Martial Artists.

Who’s to say which one is better? New students are inspired by the accomplishments and abilities of the Black Belts. Some are so motivated that they reach that level themselves. On the flip side, I am constantly reminded of the mind-set of the white belt. It is my goal to see things not through the eyes of someone who has been practicing for 15 years, but through the awe of the newbie.They bring a passion and excitement that I never want to forget in myself. For I know that if I lose that, it will be time to move on to something else. I am also inspired by those Black Belts that have the same level of commitment that I do. They participate in all the extra training even when they don’t have to. They challenge me to do better and hold me accountable when I lag. They raise the bar for me and challenge me to do that for them.

In the end, a successful dojo benefits from all three types of students. When properly acknowledged, motivated and nurtured, the varying levels can be intertwined to create a positive atmosphere for everyone. And in a positive environment, everyone benefits. In the end, they all need each other.