These two simple words can be thrown around quite easily.

But what do they mean in Martial Arts?

Since the 1980’s I have met children and adults who have never really found that something they love.

They have never found their purpose.

But, when they find a Martial Arts club that suits them, they have been transformed.

Meeting up a couple of times a week, creating new friendships, concentrating on the strike or moves with direct and absolute focus. With the camaraderie and support of your fellow students and instructors helping you, willing you to succeed.

Then once you master that strike or move and accomplish your latest goal. Everyone around you will be congratulating you. Acknowledging your commitment, discipline, and indomitable spirit.

You cannot help but feel you belong. Every student and instructor has been in that exact same place. Dedicated to the pursuit of excellence, in whatever form that takes. A perfect kick or punch or an imperfect kick or punch, but you worked hard & persevered to improve and master the move. A set of techniques that you find yourself struggling to get right, but with the encouragement of your martial arts family and guidance from your instructors. All of whom want to see you triumph.

How can you NOT feel the sense of belonging?

One day you will find yourself on the other side of this support. Seeing a fellow student and friend finding their limitations. You will encourage, help develop and assist them to accomplish their goals. Creating a purpose and motivating you to want to help more students and friends become the best versions of themselves.

I have seen this countless times. The martial arts bringing together people from all walks of life in a common goal. Success and progression in their training and life.

Whether you are 5 years or 65yrs old these trials are still there. What better way to meet your limitations head-on and then strive to go beyond them, with a group of like-minded individuals who want to see you accomplish and believe that you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

You will be able to take this positive mindset out of the confines of the matted area and learn to use these very same skills in everyday life.

The sense of belonging and purpose you WILL achieve through martial arts has only a single limitation…

YOURSELF!