The term “Martial artist” is so commonly used that I feel little thought is given to what the term really means.
The word martial signifies war, armed forces, warrior characteristics, soldier like or warlike.
An interesting combination of words that are not representative of all martial arts practitioners.
Here’s a footnote to think about! When I look at boxing which I consider to be a real martial art have you ever heard of a boxer being an artist in the ring while he is engaging in the “Sweet science”? There’s boxers, brawlers and bangers.
So why is a person who trains in a martial art considered an artist? When you first step onto the dojo mat you usually are a complete novice with absolutely no knowledge of what a martial art is really about.
With small baby steps the novice begins to learn the basic techniques of the particular martial art that they are studying.
It’s only after years of consistent practice does the novice become a person who is somewhat proficient in the martial art of his or her choice.
The true spirit of “Budo” is an important aspect of martial arts if you wish to get more out of your art and live it on a daily basis instead of two hours a week.
My sincere opinion is that a person who practices a martial art does not become an artist until thought becomes secondary to unconscious action.
My feeling is that a very high percentage of people that practice a martial art will never become an “Artist”.
Martial arts do not just occur during training but every minute of the day.
If you consider practicing a martial art as another form of a gym workout then it is obvious that this particular person’s development will be quite limited.
For complete development in a martial art there needs to be a mental, emotional and physical dedication that is with you on and off the mat.
If you know who you are and what your skill level is then advertising the fact that you train in a martial art is totally unnecessary.
Why draw unwanted attention to yourself? Remember, a sucker punch will take down any martial artist if the conditions are right and you will end up a loser or dead! Add to this equation a knife or stick and then the odds start adding up against you.
If people ask about your training just say I take whatever martial art and leave it at that.
Keep in mind though many years ago a martial art equaled mortal combat where usually only one person survived in a two man contest.
The term martial artist I am sure did not exist back then but survivor was probably very popular term as noun to describe the last person standing.
There is usually no need to fight to the death in today’s society but if you have to then you have more tools and a better chance of survival if you have trained in a martial art.
The “Artist” part in martial arts is something more internal but no less important than the outward techniques that you have practiced thousands of times.
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