Repetition in Martial Arts

Do you ever learn something that you know will help you in your life, but you don't apply it? Sure, maybe you try it once or even twice. Yet, for some reason, even though you learn something intellectually, and even though you know it is good for you, it just doesn't become part of your life. Funny creatures, aren't we?

One way to make something become part of you is through forced repetition. I know, it's not easy, but for a limited time, while you are excited about the goal or the outcome, force yourself to do the thing over and over until you become a different person – a person with this particular habit. Once you have established the momentum, it will take less effort to keep it going.

Many routines, patterns, and habits are good for us and give us structure, but be careful not to over structure your life. This is called getting in a rut. It leaves no room for creativeness, spontaneity, and improvement.

For example, broccoli is good for you, but it's bad to eat just broccoli for every meal. Doing kicks and punches the same way every day would get very boring and suck the fun out of your martial arts practice. Fortunately, there are innumerable ways to practice your basics and systematically build on them. If you can't think of some fun drills, ask your instructor to help you.

Remember, if you want a pattern to become part of your life, you have to become the kind of person that has that particular habit, and forced repetition is the key to becoming that person.

Let the Black Belt within you break free!
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