Why We Train

Each person has their own reasons to start. 

Some join to get in shape. Some to stay healthy and strong. Some want a calm, clear mind after a hard day’s work. Some want confidence, to know they can take care of themselves. Some have a had a bad experience which they will never allow to happen again. Some want to have an enjoyable, exhilarating challenge they can take on – with friends and family, and always with a room full of dedicated people. 

When your body feels healthy and alive, and your mind is relaxed and focused, there is a feeling of well-being that supports everything they do – school, sports, work, friendships, family relationships, and other things. You are likely to connect with other people whose values, states of mind and habits of life are similar. You form lasting friendships. 

Our training works. Over time, as people get more proficient, it is not only their skills that sharpen, their understanding does too.  

As our motives for training evolve, our goals mature as well.

Burning through obstacles and difficulties, mastering the body and mind, harnessing aggression, being effective in defense, at the same time making a habit of generosity and service – bringing benefit to people – is rewarding and invigorating.

There is no plateau in our approach to training. There is no time when you know it all and can sit back and just show and judge others. The learning continues. It continues beyond what is conceivable when you begin. The calm, clarity of mind we cultivate from day one, which we apply under pressure in a threat situation, deepens and expands in scope and application. The insight we get into the transformation of technique, posture and defensive dynamics, likewise becomes applicable at more subtle and profound dimensions of experience. 

It is impossible to jump ahead. We all go step by step. Being engaged sincerely and consistently in learning is the requisite for success, in fitness and technique, in self-defense and development. It promises respect, self-respect and success. 

While the content of the curriculum and the nature of the challenges we face will change, the value of that practice orientation doesn’t change, from the first day of training to, I imagine, the last. 

Post Copyright © 2022 Jeffrey M. Brooks, Mountain Karate Dojo, LLC., Yamabayashi Ryu Honbu, Saluda, NC