Published in the Taekwon-Do Times September 2002
Martial Exercise is a physical activity which uses striking techniques and/or grappling (which may include weapons, joint and pressure point manipulation) and is solely concerned with physical motion necessary to develop physical fitness, including; aerobic and cardio vascular conditioning; strength, flexibility, and possibly weight control.
There is no need to place any emphasis on Practical Self Defense, Competition, Esthetic quality, or Moral or philosophical goals or value judgements.
Martial Art
A Martial Art is a physical activity which uses striking techniques and/or grappling (which may include weapons, and joint or pressure point manipulation). To a greater or lesser extent this may include various aspects (but not necessarily all aspects) of a Martial Sport, Martial Science or Martial Exercise, including, competition, defensive and offensive fighting skills for survival, and physical fitness.
The relative emphasis placed on each of these aspects may be a significant factor determining what makes the system unique. However, to be considered an "Art" there must be some element of esthetic and technical criteria as prescribed by the system, and a set of moral or philosophical goals and value judgements
The foregoing definition of what is required for an activity to be considered a Martial Art is not something of my own creation. The importance of esthetic criterions as well moral and philosophical goals and value judgements can be found issues of Black Belt Magazine by such columnists as Keith Vargo, Herb Perez, and John Funk.
We can also see what certain other noted Martial Artists say about a Martial Art:
"The real lessons of the Martial Arts aren't kicks and punches, but rather the calm self-assurance that comes from feeling good about yourself, certain of who you are and what you hope to accomplish, and the way to reach your goal."
Chuck Norris; The Secret Power Within © 1996 Top Kick Productions
"This then is the essence of all paths of warrior wisdom, regardless of the label with which the practitioners choose to brand their individual arts. Through the choice to confront the path of challenge, to continuously face risks, to explore the very edge of defeat to better know triumph, the warrior discovers the keys to the universal power that seems to charge both the brightness and darkness in the same manner."
The Mystic Arts of the Ninja © 1985 by Stephen K. Hayes
" True karate, that is karate-do strives internally to train the mind to develop a clear conscience enabling one to face the world truthfully, while externally developing strength until one may overcome even ferocious wild animals. Mind and technique are to become one in true karate.
Those who follow karate-d must consider courtesy of prime importance."
Gichin Funakoshi; Karate-do Kyohan © 1973 Kodansha International Ltd.
"Karate in it's highest form, as karate-do, is a scientific method of defending ones physical person from aggression and, ultimately a way of life in itself that should develop total physical confidence and spiritual tranquility."
Robert A. Trias; The Hand Is My Sword © 1973 by Charles E. Tuttle Company, Inc.
"Taekwon-Do aims to achieve, Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverance, Self Control, and Indomitable Spirit.
Though it is a martial art, it's discipline, technique and mental training are the mortar for building a strong sense of justice, fortitude, humility and resolve. It is the mental conditioning that separates the true practitioner from the sensationalist content with mastering only the fighting aspects of the art.
This is one of the reasons Taekwon-Do is called an art of self defense. It also implies a way of thinking and life, particularly in instilling a spirit of self imposed discipline and an ideal of noble moral rearmament."
Encyclopedia of Taekwon-Do © 1983 General Choi Hong Hi;
The problem therefore is not as various authors suggest concerning what a Martial Art should or should not teach, but rather what does a person wish to learn and develop. Whatever it may be, if one looks hard enough they should be able to find an activity that can fulfill their wishes.
Chuck Norris; The Secret Power Within © 1996 Top Kick Productions
